2013 in Review

The experiences described in these posts were Steve’s at the time he took the ride. Each rider’s experience is unique. These posts do not describe what is usual or likely for the ride described.
 
7-Years of Luck – My Motorcycling Anniversary
 
7-Years ago today, on January 4th 2007, after having taken the MSF Basic Rider’s Course just two-months earlier, and never, ever having ridden a motorcycle before training.. I bought my first motorcycle: A used 2002 Suzuki Intruder VS800. I rode it out of the dealership shitting-my-pants and wondering if I was going to kill myself just getting home. I was actually afraid of riding it in the Spring, and thought I should go get a 250cc bike.
 
I really liked that bike. But, after a couple years of riding it, and joining the Salt City Riders riding club in Central NY (thanks to Patrick Marnell), I quickly desired to turn it into a touring bike – which isn’t easy to do to a 800cc bike..and that’s where Mitch Lenway (easily) convinced me to buy a used Gold Wing in June of 2009. Today I still ride that bike: A 2003 Honda Gold Wing GL1800.
 
In the Summer of 2011 I decided to take a chance and ride that ‘touring bike’ of a Gold Wing across country and see if I couldn’t avoid death and actually make it back home alive. I did, and my life would never be the same. I Fell In Love with Long Distance Riding! OMG – You could actually ride thousands of miles across this great country of ours and not die. lol
 
Since then: I have been from coast-to-coast THREE times. Met So Many new friends across the country; not to mention experiencing the openness of the riding community – whether it be my own backyard, the state, or the country. Have experienced places, back roads, and off-the-beaten-paths I can’t even put into words. And, recently, been introduced to the world of Motorcycle Scavenger-Hunt Rallying.
 
This ‘Riding Season’ of 2014, I will participate in 8-hour, 24-hour, and 6-DAY (Butt Lite) motorcycle scavenger-hunt rallies. And, attempt to ride into each of the continental US-States-plus-Alaska in 10-days. :))) Additionally, I have entered into a chance to be picked to ride the 11-Day Iron Butt Association Iron Butt Rally in 2015. (Fingers Crossed!)
 
In the 7-years I have ridden: I have accumulated 65,585 miles on two-wheels (60K+ on the GW). Across too-many-to-remember US States, and Canadian Provinces. With some great friends. And, can’t wait to do any-of-it, all-of-it, or-what-ever ..again.
 
..feeling good.. even though there are inches-upon-inches of snow outside and the temp is -5 F right now. Come on Spring!
 
~Ride Safe~