Electrics at the Dragon had its biggest turnout yet this year with dozens of motorcyclists riding or trailering in their EVs from across the country.
This EV Rider post and episode is sponsored by the Historic Tapoco Lodge, a Deals Gap area tradition since 1930 that includes Level 2 J-1772 and Tesla Destination charging for guests with EV’s.
California, Florida, Indiana, Michigan and Texas were just some of the states represented at 2025’s event, which was held May 17-24.
In this week’s EV Rider episode at the top of this post you’ll hear from a variety of motorcyclists and get a first person perspective of tackling 318 cures in just 11 miles on U.S. 129, which runs through the heart of the Dragon in Deals Gap, NC and into Tennessee.
I personally rode just under 1,400 miles to the Dragon and back from Jacksonville, FL on my 2020 Zero SR/F. I had a blast at this year’s event and thoroughly enjoyed editing the video.
To everyone that contributed photos and b-roll, thank you! Your photo and video additions really added to the piece. I’m purposely avoiding running any of the photos in this brief story in hopes of encouraging more readers to watch the episode.
A big shoutout goes to the Historic Tapoco Lodge, which is about five minutes or so away from the heart of the Dragon. The lodge sponsored this episode, making the trip possible.
Topaco Lodge has a wonderful bar and restaurant providing beautiful views of Cheoah River while dining. It’s a first-class retreat with pleasant cabins throughout the property.
It’s also well equipped for EV motorcyclists with Level 2 chargers along with outdoor plugs for overnight charging under weather protected canopies.
Austin Ammarell did a fantastic job organizing this year’s Electrics at the Dragon.
For those of you who couldn’t make it, you’ve got the entire summer and fall season to check out the Dragon and you don’t even need to bring your motorcycle since Austin also co-owns eMoto Powersports, which rents out Zero and Energica EVs just down the road in Robbinsville.
If you don’t have your helmet and gear with you, they’ve got that covered as well.
Last year I rented a DSR/X from eMoto Powersports rather than bring my own bike. It was a great way to experience a different EV.
eMoto Powersports also welcomes visiting motorcyclists to use its j-1772 plug, which is a great resource for Zero owners with Rapid Chargers.
There are plenty of worthwhile riding locations that don’t require a charge to get back to your Deals Gap area homebase, but if you do want to head further out, you might be pleasantly surprised to find how many chargers are scattered throughout the region.
Great Smoky Mountains Regional Charging Locations
