Riders explain lure of 'The Dragon' after fatal crash.
Tallassee, TN (June 27, 2009) - Motorcycle riders from across the country say they're lured to U.S. Highway 129's section called "The Tail of the Dragon" with 318 curves in 11 miles, although Saturday it claimed another life.
The body of Michael Crioux, 55, of Miami, Florida was found down a bank near mile marker six after he was reported missing by his family.
Riders say it's the thrill of "The Dragon" that drives the attraction.
"If it was named the cotton ball, I wouldn't be as attracted to come ride it," says motorcyclist Adam Powell.
"I did the entire Blue Ridge Parkway and ended here at the perfect climax, the Tail of the Dragon," says another rider, Jon Davis.
Motorcyclists say all the twists and turns help them hone their skills.
"These kind of curvy roads are the best way to test the limits of your machine and your own skills," Davis explains.
According to www.tailofthedragon.com, the fatality rate along The Dragon has averaged under two deaths a year for the past 10 years.
Most of these have been the result of speeding and over braking.
Officials say the most dangerous part of "The Dragon" is not necessarily the roadway, but the rider's skills.
The average person who stays alert and watches their speed will have no problem taming "The Dragon."
