Our residence was built in 1904, and mine is the eighth tribe to call it home.  I love everything about the place, from the ten foot ceilings to the hardwood floors.  It’s not fancy or elaborate, but rather understated and simple.  I appreciate all of the character and craftsmanship associated with houses of this age, but there is one feature I cherish above all the rest; our red front door!  The door is original to the house and wears the scars to prove it.  Its panels are weathered and scratched from time and use.  Over the years this door has faithfully protected those who have lived here and cheerfully welcomed them home.  On many occasions I am asked where I reside, and being that I live on a very well known street, the only other identifier I need give is, “the house with the red door!” 

Recently some friends and I were sharing stories of the places we have traveled and the beautiful sights motorcycle touring has afforded us to visit.  We talked about the magnificence of the Appalachian Mountains, the vastness of the Atlantic; the fields of corn in Iowa, and the acre after acre of wheat in Kansas.   We joked of the small town diners that hadn’t been remodeled in 53 years, but still whipped up the best pancakes on the planet, and the overpriced joints that cost us $19.50 for a dried up burger and a bag of stale chips.  We laughed about the difficult and often hilarious encounters we experienced while camping, like trying to sleep in rain soaked clothing, or the time the wind was so strong it simply blew the tent away!  

I have had the good fortune of logging thousands of miles on my motorcycle’s, some of those miles have been shared with a couple close friends, some with my wife and sons, but most have been logged alone. Yet no matter how beautiful the scenery, or important the landmark, that I have seen it is always nice to return home.  Not long ago someone asked, “What is the most beautiful thing you have seen while riding on a long trip?” and without hesitation I replied; “My red front door!” 

Ever thought about hanging it up?  Ever ponder the possibility of no longer riding a motorcycle?  For some these may seem like the most ridiculous questions of all time, for others they are a harsh reality.  Why would anyone consider giving up something as rewarding as motorcycling.  Here’s 4 reasons some people give up riding…

1.  Lifestyle changes.

While visiting a forum on Sunday I read of a 30 something who recently became a first time father, and although passionate about riding he understood the inherent dangers associated with motorcycling and therefore made the choice to quit.  For others it may be a new marriage,  a promotion at work that requires more of ones time, or perhaps the loss of a job.

2.  Illness

Dealing with a devastating illness requires the total focus and attention of a person and their families.  More times than not, this leaves one with no time, energy, or capacity to endure the arduous nature of cycling.

3.  Aging

A good friend of mine is currently dealing with this issue.  He says the bike seems heavier, the miles seem longer, and his reaction time just isn’t what it used to be.  As long as he encounters “no problems” out on the road all is fine.  But he questions what happens if something goes awry.  What if he drops the bike and no one is nearby to help, or he can’t make that emergency maneuver in time?  For him the question isn’t how long can he keep riding, but rather how long can he keep riding safely!

4.  An Accident

Many riders suffering from injuries due to a motorcycling accident, disclose that while convalescing they war within themselves about whether they should find a safer hobby.  Some do!

These are but a few reasons one time passionate riders decide it’s time to call it quits.  I am certain for most it is a difficult choice and one which all of us will face at one point or another in our lives.

Edelweiss Bike Travel is now celebrating their 30th year in the motorcycle touring business. To honor this milestone, Edelweiss has come up with a tour to top all tours; The “Discover Our Earth Expedition”, which will take place November 14, 2010, - July 20, 2011.  This eight month trip will cover 40,000 miles and 6 continents at a cost of $101,200, for a single traveler and an additional $55,600 for a passenger.

If you got the money and the time I am pretty sure this would be the motorcycle tour of a lifetime.

Early this morning I spoke with Chesshirecat via Twitter about gearing up for cold weather riding.  We both agreed that cold weather “Sucks”,  and that we would prefer temperatures in the 70’s year round.  But since neither of can change the seasons, our only alternative is to bundle up.  We also agreed that a bundled up ride is better than no ride at all.  Wouldn’t you concur?

Some desire to ride, some desire to ride well. Here’s a video that has been around a while, but inspires me to become a better rider. Hope it will do the same for you.

Since early spring you have been talking about riding to (add the name). It’s an epic ride. You have heard the scenery is breathtaking, the twisties are exhilarating, and the out of the way cafe has the best burgers on the planet. Yep, you’ve been talking about this ride since spring. Well it’s time to actually ride it.

I realize it is autumn and that the air is cool and crisp.  I am aware the days are growing shorter, all the more reason to go now!  Don’t let this destination turn into a faded dream.  Don’t regret another ride you didn’t take.  Let’s Ride!

My boots are fitted.

My gloves are snug.

My helmet secured.

My tank is full.

I hit the starter.

I roll the throttle.

It’s a rush every time!

After spending the morning working in the yard and later catching up on my reading, it was early afternoon when I jumped on my sons cruiser, a Yamaha V-Star Classic 1100, and hit the road.  I was once the proud owner of  a Honda Shadow Aero 1100, but it’s been a couple of years since I straddled a v-twin with loud after market exhaust, and frankly I had forgotten how much I enjoyed it.

Honda Shadow Aero

In town, the V-Star handles great, and certainly gains the attention of others.  Sitting in the bike, rather than on it, took a few minutes of adjustment on my part, but soon I was cruising along and enjoying the ride.  I am certainly not ready to give up the RT, but I wouldn’t be opposed to another cruiser in the stable, although my bride may have a very different view!

Here’s a few of my favorite snacks I pack when riding any distances…

1.  Quaker Granola Bars (chocolate chip)

2.  Sunny Delight Orange Drink

3.  Beef Jerky

4.  Water

1.  An Atlas  (I have a Garmin, but prefer maps).

2.  Reading glasses  (to read the Atlas)

3.  Candy  (usually Jolly Ranchers)

4.  Water bottle

5.  Cigars (as well as cutter, lighter)

6.  Voice recorder (Olympus WS321)

7.  Camera

8.  Pistol  (Bersa Thunder .380)

What do you think about when you are riding?  Not a ride across town, but a ride that allows you to really get inside yourself.