Anyone care to sell me on Maryland?

[L2M]

Hello east coasters. As a current Washington (state) resident I never thought I'd see the day that I would consider moving to what we perceive as the "mountain-less" side of the nation. However, my boss tells me my site is getting shut down and he's offering to move me to Germantown, MD.

So, for those of you who have seen both coasts, or just care to chime in, why should or shouldn't I move? I'm aware that there are some great roads down in Tennessee and that area, but how are the roads up near Germantown and Frederick? I really don't want to regret moving to an area with what I perceive has heavy traffic and limited road possibilities. Ok, so I didn't expect the move offer so I'm a bit jaded on this at the moment. I did see an 08 FJR while I was back there two weeks ago, but he was going the other way.

So, are there good roads to ride in the evening or is it strictly weekend rides? Thanks in advance guys.

 

[Checkswrecks]

Hello east coasters. As a current Washington (state) resident I never thought I'd see the day that I would consider moving to what we perceive as the "mountain-less" side of the nation. However, my boss tells me my site is getting shut down and he's offering to move me to Germantown, MD.
So, for those of you who have seen both coasts, or just care to chime in, why should or shouldn't I move? I'm aware that there are some great roads down in Tennessee and that area, but how are the roads up near Germantown and Frederick? I really don't want to regret moving to an area with what I perceive has heavy traffic and limited road possibilities. Ok, so I didn't expect the move offer so I'm a bit jaded on this at the moment. I did see an 08 FJR while I was back there two weeks ago, but he was going the other way.

So, are there good roads to ride in the evening or is it strictly weekend rides? Thanks in advance guys.

I live in Damascus, less than 10 miles from Germantown. The answer is in what you want and expect. Yes, there are some good roads, especially to the north and west. Check out photos of Gettysburg (<1hr N), Harpers Ferry (<40 min W), etc.

I'll PM you with my phone #.

Bob

 

[SPORT]

IMHO

Coming from Fresno CA (the home of the Sierra mountains), I can honestly say that I miss the Left Coast. My comparison is from living in York PA (approx 100 miles north of you). You will not be able to compare the East from the West. Roads here are generally less maintained, there are a lot of signs on main roads that say "Hidden Driveways", which require you to tone down, and are not nearly as dynamic as out West. I live 30 minutes from Gettysburg, PA, and I would classify it as flat in comparison to the West coast. There are 'pockets' of nice roads, but they are not the 'endless' mountains of the West coast. Northern PA gets better as the mountains enlarge. North East PA offers the Pocono's, which are considered the mini grand canyon of America and offer some good roads. Same with the Allegheny mountains which are located in North west PA. This is not to say that the Least coast does not offer some nice roads, but you won't find that dynamic feel of what we were raised with. I still ride year round (as long as there is no snow on the roads), but the winters can be much cooler here. If you like LD riding, VT, NH, and MN are phenominal riding areas! To the south of you are the Carolinas, which are quite flat. Virginia offers some very nice roads as well, but I've been warned a number of times about LEO's.

There is a stark contrast between the roads found on either coast. I personally prefer the West coast, but some descent roads can be had here as well, just maybe not as readily available.

Hope this helps.

When/If you do move back here, be sure to let us know so we can meet sometime.

Sport

 

[artistonFJR]

As long as you are riding to Ocean City for a crabfest, nothing else matters. I loved MD, and while I wasn't a rider back then I do know it's a beautiful state.

C

 

[El Toro]

If this comment is out of line, I apologize... but when you move to Maryland, you will want to be sure to check local fire arms laws if this is important to you. My brother-in-law is the rightful heir to his great great grandfather's antique Kennedy lever action rifle, but the paperwork for him to have it in Maryland was considered by him to be sufficiently oppressive that we have the rifle (which was manufactured just after the Civil War) in Tennessee. They don't even make ammunition for this fire arm anymore, so it is strictly an historical and familial curiosity.

Also, I recently thought about taking a gift of 25 pounds of black powder to a friend in PA since he is shooting bp now and I'm not. If I were going to do this, it would be illegal to transport it through Maryland, even in its specially designed and approved storage locker.

Some folks might view these issues as positive traits for Maryland.... but I'm not one of them.

 

[L2M]

Thanks for the quick responses guys. I was afraid of that. When I was out in MD on the exploratory trip I got the feeling that there wasn't much to ride on that would really challenge me in a safe environment (i.e. no hidden driveways). I know that for some it may seem odd, but I seriously work so I can afford my riding habit; so, this is really disappointing. While I do ride long distance on the FJR, I also like going out after work for a 1.5 hour ride often. Sounds like there are options for the weekend but few if any for after work.

El Toro, I didn't ask about firearms laws here as that is a motorcycle forum, but that particular issue would affect me. Know of any good links where I can review the regs for MD? I've Googled it a couple times and ended up with some brief summaries that didn't look bad but were apparently less than comprehensive.

I'll be sure to let you guys know if I end up moving out there. The offer is really good for a financial standpoint, but I would have to commit to stay for two years. Decisions, decisions...

 

[ShawnKing]

The offer is really good for a financial standpoint, but I would have to commit to stay for two years. Decisions, decisions...

In the grand scheme of things, 2 years isn't *that* long and you can always move back to WA. While the roads are different, you'll find some to challenge you and who knows, maybe you'll find other challenges too.

I moved from Vancouver, BC to Nashville TN "for a couple of years" - you know, just to check it out.

7 years later I'm now married to a wonderful Southern girl and riding a FJR in the "mountains" of New England.

 

[double_entendre]

The offer is really good for a financial standpoint, but I would have to commit to stay for two years. Decisions, decisions...

In the grand scheme of things, 2 years isn't *that* long and you can always move back to WA. While the roads are different, you'll find some to challenge you and who knows, maybe you'll find other challenges too.

I moved from Vancouver, BC to Nashville TN "for a couple of years" - you know, just to check it out.

7 years later I'm now married to a wonderful Southern girl and riding a FJR in the "mountains" of New England.

Can't speak about living there specifically, but you might look hard at the weather there too. We were bopping around the Southeast (flew into New Orleans and meandered to Raleigh, NC) and the humidity and temps were both pretty consistently in the 80s and 90s. If you don't like heat, it might not be a fit, though if it's only for a couple years and advances your career, it might make sense to just suck it up. :/

Rancho

 

[luvtoride]

Hello east coasters. As a current Washington (state) resident I never thought I'd see the day that I would consider moving to what we perceive as the "mountain-less" side of the nation.

You really have to be f'in kidding me. <_< Did you just say that out loud? Wait until Jeff sees this. There are mountains all up and down the east coast. Like as in WORLD CLASS MOTORCYCLE ROADS. Maybe not right there... but not past a 1/2 day worth of riding away.

BTW... good luck

 

[SPORT]

The offer is really good for a financial standpoint, but I would have to commit to stay for two years. Decisions, decisions...

In the grand scheme of things, 2 years isn't *that* long and you can always move back to WA. While the roads are different, you'll find some to challenge you and who knows, maybe you'll find other challenges too.

I moved from Vancouver, BC to Nashville TN "for a couple of years" - you know, just to check it out.

7 years later I'm now married to a wonderful Southern girl and riding a FJR in the "mountains" of New England.

Can't speak about living there specifically, but you might look hard at the weather there too. We were bopping around the Southeast (flew into New Orleans and meandered to Raleigh, NC) and the humidity and temps were both pretty consistently in the 80s and 90s. If you don't like heat, it might not be a fit, though if it's only for a couple years and advances your career, it might make sense to just suck it up. :/

Rancho

Weather??? The guy lives in WA for Pete sake (no offense Pete). My wife and I went for a 3 day excursion to Seattle. It was the most beautiful, sunny, non-rainy days that you never want to stop riding in weathery days. After talking about our experience in WA to many who had lived there we learned that those were the only 3 days of clear weather all year. Rainy, cloudy and to many, down right [EDIT: lol...measurable, (I meant miserable)] weather. I think L2M could handle the hot sticky humid summers and the bitter and icey winters. Oh, don't get me wrong, we have the occasional 'beautiful days' here (OK that's an exaguration too.) But you get my point.

L2M; All in all, it's not too bad here in PA, but I do miss CA. There is so much to explore here on the East Coast with all its cool History...much can be seen from the vinyl of our iron steeds.

 

[Wild72]

Weather??? The guy lives in WA for Pete sake (no offense Pete).

None taken,

I have done some work around the Germantown area, and found some decent roads in the past. Good opportunity for you to go exploring.

Certainly if you travel just a little further afield, you will find some great roads. North up towards the Thurmont area, Catoctin Mountains, out west towards Garrett County and Deep Creek, and your not too far out of PA, VA and WV which all have some great roads.

A few years ago, I had the opportunity to "try out" living in the US. If I didn't like it, I could always move back to Scotland (The UK version of Seatlle?). If I didn't do it, I would always have wondered "What woulda happened if?".

Six years later I'm still here and lovin' every minute of it.

I say what do you have to lose?

 

[L2M]

Can't speak about living there specifically, but you might look hard at the weather there too. We were bopping around the Southeast (flew into New Orleans and meandered to Raleigh, NC) and the humidity and temps were both pretty consistently in the 80s and 90s. If you don't like heat, it might not be a fit, though if it's only for a couple years and advances your career, it might make sense to just suck it up. :/

That is kind of how I'm looking at it now. Career advancement, decent pay, hopefully some exploring. I'd say the chances are about 50/50 now.

Hello east coasters. As a current Washington (state) resident I never thought I'd see the day that I would consider moving to what we perceive as the "mountain-less" side of the nation.

You really have to be f'in kidding me. <_< Did you just say that out loud? Wait until Jeff sees this. There are mountains all up and down the east coast. Like as in WORLD CLASS MOTORCYCLE ROADS. Maybe not right there... but not past a 1/2 day worth of riding away.

BTW... good luck

No of course not. I don't talk when I type :blink: In all seriousness though, compared to the Cascades and Rockies, what I've seen of the Appalachian mountains makes them seem like big hills. No offense really, it is just how us west coasters perceive things.

A few years ago, I had the opportunity to "try out" living in the US. If I didn't like it, I could always move back to Scotland (The UK version of Seatlle?). If I didn't do it, I would always have wondered "What woulda happened if?".
Six years later I'm still here and lovin' every minute of it.

I say what do you have to lose?

Thanks for the optimistic view. I really don't have much to lose. Might upset a few inlaws but that can be dealt with in time. Doesn't sound like moving the MD would be the end of the road. Thanks guys. I'll let you know if the move goes through. I do have a couple other lines in the water but I have to make a decision soon.

 

[MojaveFJR]

They got winter. That interferes with riding. 'Nuff said.... oh and bugs...

 

[HaulinAshe]

OMG! I'm trying really hard to be a good boy here.



I've ridden almost all the major areas of the U.S. Admittedly, I've not done Washington state yet. Here's my $.03 ...

If what you like is large expanses of wide open country, big skies with very limited sign of population, and you don't mind riding 200 miles to get to someplace that has sections of tight roads, then the left coast is for you. The mountains there certainly have a beauty that's unique and often breathtaking.

I will also say that out west, what most people called "twisties", we Southerners consider "sweepers".

I love almost every place I've seen in the past 2-1/2 years on the FJR. How can you not love making miles with such a beautiful machine! But many people ask me to answer the exact same question you have posed. Without fail I answer with, "The more places I travel to and see, the more I realize that the best damn motorcycle roads in the United States are right here in the Blue Ridge and Great Smoky Mountains."

I don't know much about Maryland. I avoided that state on my recent Yankee Loop trip, mostly because of it's proximity to highly populated areas that you may be referring to. But get off the New England coast, hit the Appalachian Mountain range, and ride your ass off for the rest of your life and you will NEVER ride the same twisty, voluptuous, frightening, and divinely painted stretch of mountain road twice.

Out West, there is typically one road that leads from Point-A to Point-B. It may very well take you up and down a grand and magnificent mountain.

Back East, there are typically 10 roads that lead from Point-A to Point-B. Take your pick, because at least seven of them will thrill your soul.

It's ALL good, both coasts and both disciplines.

OBTW, here, it gets really hot, and so humid you can wring water from the air with your bare hands in August. But while your Washington behind is snowed in, I'm wearing out two sets of tires on a 50-mile stretch of 20 mph turns. No charge for the route files.

 

[BuilderBob]

I lived in Annapolis for 5 years. Wasn't riding then; new family, job, etc., but I really enjoyed my time there.

If you want mountains, go west. Western Maryland is full of them. You want water? The Chesapeake is one of the best boating areas in the US. You want history? The area is rife with it. I never tired of the diverse nature of the area.

Then, there's the crabs. "Nuff said.

On the other hand, metro areas are extremely congested. It can be very hot and muggy for spells during the summer. Don't EVEN think about going to Ocean City during the summer. Avoid it at all possible cost!

I'd say give it some consideration. It took me about a full year to fall completely in love with the area.

 

[Checkswrecks]

Again, I live less than 10 miles form GTN and had dinner there last night. I also agree with Jeff in that the east and west coast roads are just different. I do miss the big high-speed sweepers of California and the Rockies, but it's kind of like referring to one of my kids when I talk about the other. Both great, just different.

Roads we have are generally tighter and twistier with more green closer to you. When I refered to Gettysburg, it wasn't for the town itslef, it was because it's near the eastern edge of a diagonal line of Appalachians that run NE/SW, roughly just east of the course of I-81. PA and MD get pretty flat east of Gettysburg and Harper's Ferry. The Appalachians are definitely not as new and sharply defined as the Rockies, but you can run seriously fast back roads within a short distance of Germantown. Google a map from Frederick, up Route 550, then to State College, PA. You'll see that the roads are generally pretty twisty, especially if the run perpendicular to the ridges. Actually, the Mid Atlantic Ducati Club meets every Sunday morning at the Germantown Starbucks for their weekly rides and have regular non-Duck owners along. Check out what is refered to as the 2nd part of the normal club route here to see what I mean: MadDucs link. The first part of the route is kind of a warm-up just to get out of Germantown. Actually, one reason for the break in maps is that they connect at a gas station and a contingent usually heads NW for a less publicized number of roads.

As for weather, yes it gets hot and sticky right about several weeks ago and we get about the same 2+ months of winter that most people don't ride in. Well, some keep riding till the road is icy. We get about 3-4 real snows a winter and the rest is just cold sleety crap. We get a lot less wetness from the sky than where you live.

As for the rest of life, commuting into DC depends on time of day. I'm 37 miles north and do it in 50 minutes. My house backs into woods and I pass cows on the way home from the heart of DC. If you're planning to live toward Frederick and commute on 270 to the tech area in or south of Germantown, plan on daily backups at Routes 80 and 109 if your commute is with the masses. Otherwise, plan to speed heavily to keep up and figure there will be a radar trap at the truck scales in that stretch.

Hope this helps.

Bob

 

[bmwhd]

"You will now be thrown into the Bureaucracy. In his belly you will find a new definition of pain and suffering as you are slowly taxed to death over a thousand years. "

 

[luvtoride]

They got winter. That interferes with riding. 'Nuff said.... oh and bugs...

Where he'd be moving, he can ride year round. Not much to the phrase "riding season"

 

[SPORT]

I will also say that out west, what most people called "twisties", we Southerners consider "sweepers".

Not trying to start a debate here, but sweepers I thought were long high speed turns while twisties were tight, throw the bike from left to right as quickly as you can turns. by this definition, Sierra Nevada's Huntington Lake, Wishon Lake, or Courtright Resevoir, or even the Sequoia forest area are not sweepers; they are true twisties!

There are some 'twisties' here in South East, PA, but as I shared, there are only 'pocket' of them here and there.

Nevertheless; like the fishers creed, the worst day riding is still better than the best day at work.