Riding to the Moon and back

[Cormanus]

Well said Sanoke, well said. Boy, you and Chip are certainly being philosophical. I like the break from the minutia that is technical. Thanks.

Like you, on the 18th of next month I start my 51st year of legally riding on the street (started 1 year before I was actually legal..my dad encouraged me). I have ridden every year since 1965. 17 of those years I commuted to work year round by motorcycle. Regretfully I did not record my mileages from 1965-2007, but did start recording daily mileages in Jan 2008. I have ridden over 1/2 way to the moon in just the last 8 1/2 years (120,650 miles as of this morning...it will be higher this afternoon). I've ridden in 40 U.S. states (lower 48), 2 provinces of Canada and 5 countries in Europe, in every kind of climatic condition imaginable, excessive heat, freezing cold, torrential rain, drifting snow, pelting hail, horrific winds, all of which just added to the experience . Most of my riding has been with my wife and riding partner of 42 years, who has been a joy to ride with. The mileage accumulated is fun to brag about, but the differing experiences and sights seen, people met, foods eaten, are what is really important and have added up to a lifetime of sheer enjoyment. The great and not so great motorcycles we have ridden, singles, twins (parallel and V), triples, fours (inline and V), two strokes, 4 strokes, belt, chain and shaft driven, electric start and kick start, automatics, 3 speeds, 4 speeds,5 speeds, 6 speeds, air cooled and liquid cooled have also contributed to the experience. My only regret is we don't have another 50 years to ride. I do plan on getting to the other 8 lower 48 states, and seeing some more of this incredible country, and maybe another Canadian province or two before I get too old (approaching too fast). Would love to get back to Europe (not going to happen) and would love to ride in either New Zealand or Australia (probably not going to happen either). But as long as I am able I will swing a leg over a motorcycle and take off for someplace (nearly) every day. Just love motorcycles....and riding.

We might have to try to entice you Down Under with an Australian rally, Ferret.