Columbus To Greenfield: Asleep At The Storm

As of this writing, I've yet to compile a decent motorcycle route between Columbus, Ohio and our hub in Libertyville, Illinois. Unless I take things so far off course that we roll counterclockwise around Lake Michigan or due west into Mississippi, Indiana's vast flatlands make up the remainder of this trip. What's more, we must consider whether we want to engulf the entire 5.5 hours of slab time in one day or split it between two.

Then there's the battle of family versus forecast. Columbus is a wonderful city but a storm front is fast approaching. When we compound that with our total remaining miles, two shorter stints will help ensure safety while minimizing fatigue.

Chatting about the neighbor's Honda Scrambler with hugs and handshakes all around, we're ready to head out. The sun is shining and leaving early means cooler, more comfortable riding. Eventually finding that everlasting straight (highway), we find this a good time to reminisce. Going through each day's events is similar to bronzing in that it better locks everything into memory.

An interesting truth about Indiana geography is that because it's so flat, a motorcyclist's field of view is enormous. You get the sense that you're looking at the entire state ahead of you. It also means that whatever weather is on the menu expands enormously in all directions.

Signs of Indiana's heavy weather are obvious. Purple clouds introduce intense winds and diagonal riding that eventually force us to stop in Greenfield (southeast of Indianapolis). Hazardous or not, thunder and lightning on an open horizon are both beautiful and impressive.

As the rains worsen, there's no harm in taking a break underneath an underpass. It's here that we temporarily befriend a Goldwing rider as well as a (poorly positioned) open-top hot rod. Margaret mentions that this is her first experience riding at a forty-five-degree angle so consistently.

It's time we find a hotel.

Preparing to enter the lobby, a nearby lightning strike wakes us from whatever daze has caught us. Coffee's no longer necessary but the local Cracker Barrel definitely hits the spot. Even though today's ride is short, we revisit the experience with laughter, having almost outrun the storm.

Ready for more? Day Nine: Greenfield to Libertyville

What's Your Favorite Sport Touring Motorcycle Route From Columbus To Greenfield?

There aren't many twisty, scenic travel options connecting the two. Which roads do you prefer and why? Where do you like to stop along the way? Your input is invited. Leave a comment and/or write an article!