Let’s Ride!

Welcome! This is the initial post here on themotorcycletourer, so I think it’s only fair that you get a heads up on who I am, and what I’m trying to do with this blog.

Honestly, it’s an extension of my bucket list dream of traveling coast to coast across the United States on my bike, meeting great people, eating some great food, and seeing some country that will take my breath away.

If you are looking for a discussion of the mechanics of a motorcycle this is the wrong place. First, as a grease jockey, I’m a much better bowler (and I don’t bowl). I grew up behind the counter of my Dad’s auto parts store so I have a profound respect for guys and gals who can turn a wrench. And, yes, I have bolted on a few parts to my bike, changed my filters, oil, lights, plugs … but when it comes to opening up a cylinder or mounting a tire on a big cruiser– well, I’ll leave that to the pros.

And if you’re looking for a review of the latest knee dragging track day I’m sure you won’t have any trouble finding that somewhere else. I’m 50 years old. I ride sitting up, looking around, and the sight of me in full leathers wouldn’t be enjoyable to anyone.

This blog will probably reflect my still forming philosophy of motorcycling. The bike is a vehicle to take me to new experiences.

• I want to experience people – riders and cagers.   The people who are sharing the planet on the same go round as me are pretty interesting folks. They teach me. They challenge me.
• I want to experience God’s creation. I have a buddy who laughs when I tell him that riding helps me get in touch with God. But after a tough week of life, when I come back from a day in the mountains, he knows that it’s true.
• I want to experience new restaurants. My grandmother always said, “It’s not a visit unless you eat.” I think that profound truth has helped shape my appreciation of people who prepare food, serve food, share food, and enjoy food. I like putting the kickstand down at out of the way mom and pop places where everyone is treated like family.
• I want to experience myself. No, not in some gaze-at-my-navel while in a yoga pose way. When I take time away from phones and screens, and even the people that I love the most in the world, I can get a better perspective on who I was made to be, and uncover a little bit more of how I can grow into the man I want to become.

If any of these thoughts resonate with you, join me here. It’s going to be a great ride.