ozark mountain scramble 2013

It's getting closer to the 2013 Ozark Mountain Scramble already. The last two have literally changed my life. The friends, the roads, the stories, the scenery, etc. If you missed out on the previous years, put this one on your to do list. With that said, this post will hopefully cover everything you need to know about the run. If you can't find the info you seek here, send an email to hatchethairy@yahoo.com and I'll do my best to address your needs and edit details accordingly.

GENERAL INFORMATION:

This is not a race, and was created for street legal bikes only. We intend to ride all miles at a brisk pace, however we ask that you respect the road, locals, camp grounds, hotels, etc. There will be no chase truck, so make sure you are plenty prepared for your battle through the mountainous slab terrain. If you think your wrist pin is about to go, or a crank bearing has little life left in it, it is best to fix it now and spare yourself the catastrophic failure deep within the Ozarks. Keep in mind that all riders on this run will be flogging a machine no younger than 33 years old! I cannot stress enough, that you will need to be self sufficient at all times. Familiarize yourself with the maps and do your best to help out others that may stumble along the way.

RULES/MANIFESTO:

This run is geared towards those who challenge their wallets to a duel, and rise victorious. Those who stretch the dollar to its limits for the sole purpose of cheap thrills on a two wheeled freedom machine. If this doesn’t remotely sound like you, it is time to click the back button on your browser. Below are the requirements needed to join the run.

* 1980 or older motorcycle

* spend no more than $1000 on purchase, build, and prep

* total displacement of motorcycle cannot exceed 750cc

Often I get asked at the end of each run if any of the rules will be changed. Whether it be year, price, or motor size, a quick and simple answer is NO. After a considerable amount of debate, it has been decided there are no legitimate reasons to change the rules. 13 people made it last year, and 5 the year before that, so why try and fix something that isn't broken? Anyone can put together a bike following the rules, you just have to WANT to do it. If that means that we stay below 20 riders every year, then so be it. Personally I have put together a bike under budget for each run, and while it isn't easy, it can be done. Let's all just have fun riding old cheap motorcycles through the mountains.

WHERE:

The Ozark Mountains throughout the Northwest and Central regions of Arkansas. Check out the map for more details on exact locations. Route options may change, so try to keep up with this site for any updates along the way.

WHEN:

May 29th - 31st 2013

I know it's a bit unorthodox for the most part, but the OMS is held on 3 consecutive weekdays that runs Wednesday through Friday. There are a couple reasons for this, so let me explain. First and foremost, this ensures a low pedestrian traffic count for everyone riding through the mountains. There is nothing more annoying than day after day of being held up by a band of rubber neckers when you could be dragging a knee/peg/spleen instead. If the run was held on a weekend, I can assure you the time spent cursing the driver in front of you would grow ten fold. Since this run ends on a Friday, that also leaves Saturday and Sunday to get back to your lives/home. This has worked out great both years now, and I'm sure it will work great for many years to come. So there you have it, mark the days on your calender, and get your vacation time approved. Luckily there is still plenty of time to get started on your build and/or tune ups.

DEPARTURE:

We will meet at 9 am on day one at a predetermined spot. Everyone can meet, greet, and go over the days route before departure at 9:45 am. If you choose to ride separate from the group that is fine. I will post an overall map, daily maps, and specific road maps for each day as the final route is ironed out. The more prepared you are, the better for the group overall, so show up with a tank full of gas.

COST:

The OMS has no entry fee, and I intend to keep it that way. If you went through the trouble to build and/or restore a bike back to a functional machine, then you have paid your dues already. The only cost to you will be fuel, lodging, and food/beverages. Simple as that.

LODGING:

These are the official hotels of the run. In order to get the group discount you need to mention you are booking with the Ozark Mountain Scramble. If you don't want to save a few bucks, ignore that bit of information. Wanna camp? Go for it. I'm sure there are places to do so, however it's up to you to get all of that sorted.

Day One:
May 29th
La Quinta Inn
111 East Harrell Drive
Russellville, AR 72802
479-967-2299

Your choice of the following:
$85 standard king bed
$90 queen double bed

Day Two:
May 30th
Quality Inn
1210 US 62/65 N
Harrison, AR 72601
870-741-7676

Your choice of the following:
$76.49 standard king bed
$76.49 queen double bed

GAS STOPS:

There are quite a few gas station options from day to day, however there are a handful that only accept cash without any ATMs near. Be prepared and bring a couple Lincolns in your man purse.

BUILD LOGS:

I strongly encourage you send in any build, purchases, or random updates on your budget built steed. It's fun to see what people are putting together, but not a requirement. Any information you would like to share is more than welcome, and will be posted at your discretion. If you are looking for inspiration, take some time to browse previous build logs listed off to the right.