Ridus Interruptus...

We are not in the Black Hills for the Sturgis Rally - the Rally is occurring during our stay here.  Not trying to prove a point with our scooters - we understand that they are not the typical two-wheeled conveyance you see here during the Rally.  In fact, I kind of expected our riding to be curtailed during the 10 days of the Rally.  That has turned out to not be the case - our scoots are as capable as most bigger bikes when "riding through the twisties."  And, the Black Hills has a wonderful variety of great riding roads.

This morning, we discussed going to Mt Rushmore.  Before heading out, Joan asked, "Is there something specific you want to do at Mt Rushmore... or would you rather just ride?"

I am all about the ride.  New plan: our "usual" close-by twisty roads to Keystone, on to Iron Mountain Road, take a left turn onto Playhouse Road back to Highway 40, then the same two twisty roads back home.  A couple hours of unadulterated riding fun... if the traffic allows.

Al the local media is talking about how the Rally is "winding down"... there will be some fresh riders rolling in to partake of these last two days, but a lot of people have already started their ride/drive home.  Here in the resort, we are seeing people packing up.

It is going to be a hot one today: the weather weasels are predicting a high of 95º in Rapid City.  We knew the riding would be best done early.

Turning onto South Rockerville Road, we rode by this group on the side of the road...

We could see they were getting ready to roll.  We were riding at a reasonably leisurely pace, and could see them coming up in our mirrors - "Shall we?"  We shall... put the coals to it.  Didn't seem them again in our mirrors for the rest of that wonderfully twisty road.

Rolling through Keystone...

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Zh0LMjVX3N8&feature=youtu.be

The highway from Keystone - to Mt Rushmore or Iron Mountain Road...

I am surprised at how light the traffic was on Iron Mountain Road...

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RJjUTwLuS_g&feature=youtu.be

Yes, the video is a bit shakey - the Ram Mount extension moves a bit.

Not even a wait for traffic at the tunnels...

Look close in the mirror: that is Mt Rushmore you are seeing through that tunnel. (above)

We considered Playhouse Road our half-way point today - made our turn there and headed north.

A short bit on Highway 40, then back onto South Rockerville Road...

A turn onto Neck Yoke Road...

And back to the Ranch.  Before the hottest part of the day.

:-)