A Journey Through Motorcycles, Retirement, and Community-

Introduction

Every passion has its story, and I want to hear about yours.  My story begins with the sound of an engine and a memorable two-wheel experience.  I want to mention up front that I am not an expert on anything and frankly don’t know much about some things.   However, not knowing what I am doing has never stopped me from doing anything before; although, it has cost me a lot of money and significant physical pain at times! Well, I have survived it all so far. So, with a pretty good sense of humor and an open mind, here I go again!  I can’t wait to hear about your thoughts and experiences.

My Past Riding Motorcycles

Riding motorcycles has always been more than a hobby; it’s a way of life. My journey began in my pre-teens. When I was about 12, Without asking or telling anyone, I kidnapped my cousin’s old Cushman while visiting at their farm in Oklahoma. Riding down a gravel road about three miles, I tried to turn around and on the thick gravel in the center of the road, to my inexperienced surprise… went down like a dog.  I had my leg under the thing in the middle of the road.  I did get out from under it and lifted her 200+ pounds upright, it must have been low center of gravity and the adrenaline and fear of what Dad was going to say…  I couldn’t get the thing started again, probably flooded.  But, to my relief, while I was trying to push it up the road without much progress, there came my brother, cousin and uncle in a truck … they weren’t too mad, I think… That was my first riding experience… Hmmmm. So, that left an impression…  Although it ended poorly, it was also fun!  

After eyeing bikes at the local dealers and watching with envy, riders of all sorts around town and in movies for a few years, when I was street-legal age but still without much money, I bought a Harley Davidson (HD M-50 Click here)   from a friend of mine for $125, With a heart full of excitement and a second-hand bike, I was off. 

Over the years, and many bikes later, I’ve traversed countless miles, from sun-drenched trails and dirt hills to highways to winding mountain roads, mostly in the Rocky Mountain West.  Each ride brought its own stories and lessons, from the camaraderie with fellow riders to the solitary peace of solo journeys. The freedom, the adrenaline, and the sheer joy of riding motorcycles became an integral part of who I am.

Retirement Got Boring

When I retired, I looked forward to endless days of relaxation and leisure. But soon, the monotony of retirement set in. The routine of my professional life and the structure it provided were replaced by uneventful days, especially the too long winters. My budget would not allow me to tour all the time, or as much as I would like, it still doesn’t.  I found myself yearning for a sense of purpose and adventure. It was during this time of reflection that I realized I wanted to rekindle my passion for motorcycles and share it with others. and hear about theirs.

Connecting with Other Bikers

One of the most rewarding aspects of riding motorcycles is the community it fosters. Cuts and colors, dirt bike gear, or blue jeans and a vest, no matter what you wear, bikers are a unique breed, bonded by our shared love for the open road, and other riding experiences. Through this blog, I aim to connect with fellow enthusiasts, hear their stories, and exchange ideas. Whether it’s discussing the latest gear, sharing tips on bike maintenance, or recounting epic rides, hearing from other bikers adds a new dimension to my passion.

Motorcycle Fun and Safety

Motorcycling is exhilarating, but it also demands respect and awareness. This blog isn’t just about the thrill of the ride; it’s also about promoting safety. From wearing the right gear to understanding road conditions and practicing defensive riding, safety is paramount. I hope we can share insights and experiences to help others ride safely while maximizing their enjoyment.

Conclusion

Starting this blog was a natural progression of my journey with motorcycles. It’s a platform to share our experiences, connect with like-minded individuals, and promote the joy and safety of riding.  When I ride, I love to see riders pass with two fingers down to say hi, keep the wheels and rubber down, stay safe and have fun.

I invite you to share your knowledge and experience with us on this adventure, as we explore the world of motorcycles together. No matter whether you ride, highway, street, hill, dirt or track, here’s to the motorcycle experience, the stories we create, and the community we build.

Two down to all of you!

Don