The Lake Thunderbird Run

Motorcycle Route Author

By clint01310 (6 McR Points) on Nov 09, 2014

Rider Reviews

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Beemernation

May 11, 2015

Nice ride for the area, plenty of chances to stop…

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Beemernation

May 11, 2015

Nice ride for the area, plenty of chances to stop…

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Written Directions

From downtown Norman. I like The Garage for lunch then head out for an afternoon ride. North on Porter Ave to Franklin Road. East on Franklin to 48th Ave NE, you will see Toby Keith's home, I go north on 48th Ave to Indian Hills road just to catch some scenery and nice winding curves. East on Indian Hills which dead ends at 84 Ave NE. You will now zig zag around the northeast side of Lake Thunderbird by going south of 84th to Tecumseh Road. East on Tecumseh to 96th Ave NE south to Arrowhead Drive, east to Navajo Road. South on Navajo which has a 90 deg curve back to the west. You will dead end at Mohawk Ro. South on Mohawk to Alameda. West back into Norman across the Thunderbird Bridge. This ride has great scenery with plenty of places to stop for a view of the lake. I like this ride particularly in May during the Norman Music Fest. It is a good break from the music but is no crazy long. If riding during the evening be extra careful for deer.

Scenery

I would personally rate this higher, but I didn't want to oversell. It has great two lane roads, passes the classic Hollywood Corners store, Toby Keith Home, great lake views, and begins/ends in old town area of Norman. Lots of great restaurants in Norman and scenery along the ride.

Drive Enjoyment

Most of the road is smooth. Be careful on the east side of the lake. Some roads have pot holes that will sneak up on you.

Tourism Opportunities

The lake has the casino and Thunderbird State Park. Several convenience stores and bait shops around the lake. The gem of this ride is downtown Norman for dinner or a beer. (A Beer, meaning 1)

Motorcycle Road Additional info

This ride can be made considerably longer by staying on Porter to NE 149th Street then east to Peebly Road before going South to Highway 9. This will take you completely around Thunderbird and come back into South Norman which leads to a great ride back to Main through the OU campus. Either way, the scenery is great and I would recommend this ride on a lazy weekend afternoon.