Rolling Thunder

The never-ending search for the unknown, awe-inspiring, scenic patch of earth can be intoxicating.

Motorcycling has hit the mainstream and is enjoyed by individuals from every corner of society, whether they’re riding solo for a therapeutic outing, with a group of friends, as a family or as couples. The number of women riders has grown immensely, while children are able to enjoy motorcycling on off-road excursions that enable the whole family to ride together.

A significant contributor to the rise of the motorcycle industry is the skyrocketing fuel prices, which are now the norm. Filling the tank of a scooter or motorcycle is almost insignificant in contrast with gassing up an SUV, minivan, or even a car.

A wide range of motorcycle styles are available, with something to suit everyone’s needs, from runabout scooters and highway cruisers to off-road bikes and road-race replica rockets that are often seen at stoplights. There are plenty of beginner bikes to choose from. All it takes is a little investigation to find the one that’s right for you. Start by looking through motorcycles magazines. Then speak with as many motorcyclists as possible. They can provide you with invaluable insight about the technical side while communicating specific nuances of the sport that you can’t always learn from a magazine. Your local motorcycle dealer is also a great source of information, as is the Internet.

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Once you are ready to choose a motorcycle, there are many factors to consider. The obvious budget factor
– whether to buy new or used, the style of motorcycle you prefer and the type of riding you envision doing. Apart from the financial considerations, I think the most important consideration is the type of riding you would like to do. For instance, do you see yourself as a laid-back individual who would like to maintain that personality on your motorcycle? Then perhaps a cruiser style motorcycle would suit you best. A fine example of this type of bike is the Yamaha Raider S–a bike with style and attitude. Have you ever dreamed of dicing it out with the top road racers in the world on the legendary race circuits of Europe? Then you may want to live out your fantasy on a sport bike (but only in a closed-circuit racetrack facility, please!). Another factor to consider is that most owners of sportbikes will ride for one or two hours at best. If you have a weak back, wrists or legs, you may not be comfortable on a sportbike due to the aggressive seating position.

Let’s not forget the physical element in the equation. If you’re 100 pounds and soaking wet, the 500-pound cruiser you are dreaming about may not be the best choice for you. As with choosing a car, size and ride height can be determining factors. However, motorcycles can be more easily modified or adapted to an individual’s physique than a car. For instance, ride height (the distance between the seat and the ground) can sometimes be lowered so that you can firmly plant your feet on the ground when at a standstill.

Regardless of the type of motorcycle you choose, always focus on safety while enjoying the sport.

Finding that great stretch of road, whether you head out on your own or with a group of friends, is a great adventure. The never-ending search for an unknown, awe-inspiring, scenic patch of earth can be intoxicating. Stopping at a wayward diner for a hearty breakfast or a quick jaunt to the local café for an espresso might fulfill your ride. Sometimes it’s best not to have a destination in mind and just to enjoy the ride.