No Seatbelt!
I've graduated from Towanda, the scooter, to a brand new Harley. It's a little more work to get to the fun part, but well worth it. I've learned to shift, stop, turn and most importantly, keep the motorcycle upright! For now, I'm calling him Red.One of the most fascinating things I've discovered is that I always look down for a seatbelt! Don't get me wrong - I never drive my car without putting on a seatbelt. And I totally believe in wearing them. But there's not one on a scooter or a motorcycle. So the risk factor is really high, but the opportunities for doing new things and seeing new sights go way up, too.
I think the seatbelt issue is a symbol of my life - always doing the right thing, and being completely safe. And let the boundaries of my comfort zone be 10-foot high stone walls that can't be scaled.
But no more! I'm riding off into the sunset and pushing my walls down. Of course, with new safety guidelines like helmets, boots, safety courses, etc.
Are you staying too safe? Have you stepped out of your comfort zone lately?
I just wanted to write a note to you (after reading your comment on my "I want to learn to" wish)...about riding motorcycles. First, BRAVO! Second...please...I have such a fear. I liked your entry about riding a scooter...and how you inched it faster and faster...woohoooo 35 mph... LOL I have such a clear image in my head...I can TASTE it...but I get on my bike and I kinda lose it. Any comments? Offerings? "Get over its?"? you know..I was asked to leave the motorcycle class the first time I took it (in August)...a few months later (in November) I was back at it with a vengence...did great - other students thought I was a seasoned rider. (I LOVED the lumber part)...anyway...I chatter on...thank you for sharing your experience...and I would appreciate any further thoughts.
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Lisa, isn't it exciting to ride a bike? Power and vulnerability all rolled into one!
I found the first level of courage by going out on my own on not-so-busy residential streets. I constantly repeat what my teacher drilled into us: all 4 limbs to stop; slow-look-press-and-lean for a turn, etc.
This past Sunday, I followed my husband on a 90-mile trip into the countryside. Since I was behind him I didn't feel he would be judging me, AND I could see when he hit a bump or swerved so it wasn't a surprise for me. There was also a little bit of "I'll show him I'm not a wimp!"
So my first "big" trip, my first time to mph, and my first time on a freeway. I also learned how to do the motorcycle wave (down low), and to really focus on the road in twisty spots.
Let me know any secrets that you uncover!
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Appreciate your comment on my blog! You'll be soooo happy on a bigger bike! I rode my sporty 33,ooo miles in two years...tested a Low Rider and realized that the grass is definitely greener on the other side of the fence! My give a way with the book launch Dec 1 and 2 (if you purchase on Amazon) is some of my road tools! I have a feeling you'll be drifting away from the pack, my dear. I love that you enjoy the pictures I paint with my words! It's supposed to be 50 here in SE WI on Saturday...I'm taking Lucy for a ride!!!! So, you'll be seeing another blog soon! Discover what it really means to ride free! It's sooo flippin' awesome! Karen (karenallen@wi.rr.com)
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