The weather was unusually awesome on New Year’s Day. It was more like spring than winter. My wife and I joined a group ride in Hendersonville, North Carolina, where friends and bikes of all types were aplenty. We were just entering that group rhythm, headed toward some of our favorite twisties, when it happened — and it happened quickly. My wife, Sheri, was ahead of me on her … [Read more...] about Improving the odds: A crash illustrates the importance of ATGATT
BMW
Finding serenity: A ride to boost your mental health
It’s dark and raining. Nearly 333 miles into this trip, I’m 12 miles east of Suches, Georgia. As elevation increases, the rainy drizzle intermixes with fog, diminishing the usually excellent head lamp and fog lights to less than what my tired eyes need. Adding to the challenge, earlier rain and wind has stripped most of the already waning fall color from the trees, creating a … [Read more...] about Finding serenity: A ride to boost your mental health
Up in flames: Are you prepared for a fire?
The word “fire” alone is enough to grab the attention of anyone, and it should. When confronted with a fire, you have seconds to react. In too many cases, you have to turn to common sense when a fire extinguisher is not available. Fire should in the forefront of your mind before you take to your next ride, especially with a group of other riders. Three months ago, several … [Read more...] about Up in flames: Are you prepared for a fire?
Lessons well learned at the BMW Rider Academy
I am standing in a motorcycle dealership considering the purchase of a ridiculously expensive two-wheel conveyance. This purchase is irrational. I already own a 2020 KTM Super Adventure R. Conventional wisdom dictates the KTM is barely broken in. Rational thought and decision making would prompt my immediate exit from this den of crass consumerism. Yet my eyes involuntarily … [Read more...] about Lessons well learned at the BMW Rider Academy
What about THAT one? Stranded rider impulse buys a new Beemer
No-no-no. Not now. Not here. Not with nearby thunderstorms. Just over that mountain, on the other side of the interstate. Weather radar glowing orange and red. Damn. Damn-damn-damn. Switch on. Bike in neutral. Clutch in. Press the starter switch …. Clunk, cuh-Clank. Press the starter again. Clunk… cah-ah-ah-Clank. Switch off. Switch back on. “Ready to … [Read more...] about What about THAT one? Stranded rider impulse buys a new Beemer