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Tail of the dragon......your pick?

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Old 11-24-2014, 12:30 AM
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ruhlich
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Default Tail of the dragon......your pick?

One of the best automotive driving stories I've yet to read was in the Nov issue of Road & Track. Larry Webster, the editor, found the local "King of the Dragon" and eventually convinced him to lead a run through the approx 14 miles of twisties.

Webster's first exercise was to call Ferrari to get use of a car to hang with the King.

For those who didn't see the story, the King drives a 300 hp RX7 with mods to fit the course and has accomplished the run in about 10 min.

My question is......had you the opportunity to do this, what car would you have chosen. To be fair, let's say it has to be mass-produced and able to be legally licensed.

If you haven't read this story, by all means head to the library and find it.
Old 11-24-2014, 01:33 AM
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chuck911
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Koenigsegg One:1.

Old 11-24-2014, 01:20 PM
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todd92
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GT3
Old 11-24-2014, 01:29 PM
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LexVan
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I've run the Dragon many-many times. I'd like to try it in the new 911GTS with PDCC or the Cayman GTS.
Old 11-24-2014, 08:14 PM
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fjpdds
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Cayman GTS would be perfect for the Dragon.
Old 11-24-2014, 10:32 PM
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ruhlich
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Originally Posted by LexVan
I've run the Dragon many-many times. I'd like to try it in the new 911GTS with PDCC or the Cayman GTS.
Lex:

Is 10 min really realistic? Webster noted their run took about 11.5 min.
Old 11-24-2014, 10:55 PM
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ipse dixit
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Ariel Atom
Old 11-25-2014, 12:27 AM
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Just J
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I'd start by picking a different road. Much of the Dragon is extremely tight turns, followed by very short straights, followed by another extremely tight turn. So it's essentially a series of 1 second drag races. Plus it's usually packed with traffic in both directions.

I found the Cherahala Skyway to be a *much* better drive. Fast sweepers, little traffic, fewer cops, and spectacular views.
Old 11-25-2014, 07:31 PM
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Cherohala is a fantastic drive.
Old 11-25-2014, 09:11 PM
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rubytub
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The King was behind us about a year ago running The Dragon. I was driving my track prep'd '04 GT3 and couple buddies with me driving C6 GS Vettes...they also had some track days. We had a blast! The King was on our tail all the way. When we stopped at the Tree of Shame we all got out and enjoyed the stories! The 6GT3 is THE Porsche!....of the modern ones anyway.
Old 11-25-2014, 09:30 PM
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77tony
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Originally Posted by Just J
I'd start by picking a different road. Much of the Dragon is extremely tight turns, followed by very short straights, followed by another extremely tight turn. So it's essentially a series of 1 second drag races. Plus it's usually packed with traffic in both directions.

I found the Cherahala Skyway to be a *much* better drive. Fast sweepers, little traffic, fewer cops, and spectacular views.
Now your talking, Cherahala Skyway is king. I do realize this is about what car to choose, but if you want to go really fast on the dragon, the weapon of choice would be a KTM dirt bike with street tires-under 9 minutes. The fast Jap bikes sit to low and wash out on the severe turns. That said, The Dragon is not really a good place to test your metal. Much of the route is lined with trees, has plenty of cops, and is 2 way traffic, not exactly a formula for fun. Take it to the track if you feel the need. If you still want to go & check out this wonderful area, look into staying at www.ironhorsenc.com. (shameless plug for an old bud's place).02 T

Last edited by 77tony; 11-25-2014 at 10:07 PM.
Old 11-25-2014, 10:43 PM
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bammb
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The Cherahala is way better for our cars. You can wind it out a bit. I've driven the dragon several times. The only problem I have with it is getting behind guys on Harley's who are to proud to move over for a pass. Their are a decent amount of pull-offs and most people are respectful if you are behind them and will pull over.



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