I got to take a friend for a ride on Friday. It was her first time on a motorcycle since she was 16. She's a lady I very much respect, so I won't try to guess her age; but she told me that riding on a motorcycle is on her Bucket List. She said that riding on a Harley made the whole experience that much sweeter.
I took us on the new toll road, NC540, down to US64 west. We rode out by Jordan Lake and took a slow ride back to where she works in Research Triangle Park. She was as excited as anyone I've ever taken on one of my bikes. She raved about how beautiful the bike looked and how great it sounded. She reminded me that I too often take it for granted that I get to ride a big, beautiful Harley in the best country on Earth. Her joy was a gift. She was thanking me effusively, but I feel like I got the better of the deal.
If you ride, don't ever take it for granted. Celebrate your opportunity by sharing it with others.
And as always,
Keep the shiny side up!
-The Long Rider