The 3.6.5 Ride: When it rains it pours...

Gray skies, pouring rain, broken finger...it's enough to crush a bikers spirit! With the intent of riding through the colder months this year I was hoping to avoid my usual diversion.When the weather starts to work against me, and I get cooped up inside because of rain or snow, I find myself saturating my eyeballs with images of motorcycles. I look at websites with old bikes, new bike, bike parts, riding gear, bike runs, building bikes, motorcycle maintenance, bike trips, customizing bikes, bikes, bikes, BIKES!!!
With this bum finger I have no choice, I can't even brave the weather and get out there if I wanted to. With a broken finger I can't do alot of things I enjoy. So, guess what I'm gonna do? I'm gonna look at websites that have to do with MOTORCYCLES!!! Actually I have another idea...
Since the accident, I've had a large amount of well wishes from my friends, a lot of them bikers. When you're riding with a friend taking in the sights and enjoying cruising around, there is an understanding that takes place as you travel. You can sense the feeling of enjoyment from fellow riders just from a head nod or pointing to the sky. The communication between two riders becomes almost telepathic. When your buzzing through rolling hills hundreds of miles from home and the air is crisp you feel totally connected to the bike. There is nothing quite like it. That sensation is heightened when you get to share it with good people who truly love motorcycling.
It is in that moment that you are removed from daily stress and completely mindful of your surroundings.You become connected to the motorcycle, each other, and your environment. It's an example of how, if we believe we are all connected and acknowledge that, we begin to appreciate all things on a deeper level.
I've had the chance to meet many people who share my love of motorcycling, some have become good friends. When I told those same people I crashed and got hurt, that I wouldn't be able to ride for awhile, they completely understood how much it bothered me. I didn't have to say much...
I'd like to take some time to show my respect to some fellow enthusiasts and friends who love the open road as much as I do.

My friend Jeff and I have racked up a bunch of miles together. We ride locally and have done some great runs as well. We did the El Diablo Run 2008 in Mexico and more recently the Gypsy Run in upstate New York. Once I'm back in the saddle I hope to get thousands of more safe miles with my good buddy Jeff. He's a stand up dude who rides hard. Here's to you buddy!