While down in the Outer Banks recently, we headed north towards Duck for a bit of lunch and wandering. We saw the signs notifying us there was road construction ahead. No information on what type of road work, just road work. As we approached, I saw the above sign. It was planted right where the pavement ended and the gravel began. There was no warning for motorcyclists (or anyone for that matter with less than four wheels on the ground) prior to this sign, that upon leaving the pavement, you would be greeted with 3+ inches deep gravel.
As it was, when the front tires of the car met the gravel, they dug in. Had I been on my 1200GSA, there is a possibility that I'd have lost the front end of the big BMW as it met the gravel and been the recipient of what I affectionately refer to as "an unplanned get off."
This road work is yet another example of just how clueless, unthinking or simply inconsiderate most State Department of Transportation entities are. When they think roadwork, they think "Oh this won't be a problem for anyone on four or more wheels." They never give consideration to the affects their work will have on that small segment of the population that doesn't travel in a cage.
I've sent off a strong, but polite email to the North Carolina Department of Transportation, asking that they post additional signs, approximately 1/2 mile in both directions from where the pavement turns to gravel, giving motorcyclists ample warning of the impending danger which lies ahead.
I don't hold out a lot of hope that it will garner any response.
UPDATED 11/01/10 - A reply from NCDOT says they will endeavor to take two wheeled vehicles into consideration when conducting future operations.
