Seeing Life Atop the Harley

When I jumped on board 10 years ago some people asked me why I would get involved with such a dangerous hobby as that of riding a Harley . I guess the risk is a part of the attraction but considering we risk our lives every day by just getting out of bed I figure the increase is tolerable. The upsides however are large to those of us who enjoy the pleasure of riding two wheels at speeds over 80 mph with the wind in our face and the roar of a 1485CC engine beneath our legs. The look of the bike is paramount with a solid base color that gleams in the sun and a ton of sparkling chrome that is attached everywhere on the chassis. The leather on the seats and bags compliment the chrome studs that trim the ebony material. When you swing your leg over the bike and sit down to balance the bike between your legs you are almost ready to take off except for a few things. Final adjustments to the helmet, sunglasses and gloves are completed as well as confirmation that you are in neutral gear. You then flip the ignition to on, snap the start button down and hit the igniter to spark the engine to life. The horsepower potential is heard through the rumble of the Samson dual pipes and a small rev or two alerts people within hearing distance that you are there and ready to ride. As you shift into first and let out the clutch the engine sound changes reflecting the torque sent to the drive belt and it increases as the big gear winds out. Shifting through the up gears is like music as you gain speed on your way to a comfortable cruising level. On the highway you can let the machine loose to enjoy the acceleration and if alone, check out your top end comfort zone. Speed, power and control are probably the key attraction to the big Hogs but it can also be a masculine symbol of strength as Tim Taylor would say "urf " urf". Whatever it is, I love roaring down the highway or rumbling between lights downtown on the back of my Heritage Soft tail Classic. Some riders love to ride in groups but that is not my style, I would rather be with only one or two other bikers or in fact alone particularly when riding through the back roads and highways where there is always the possibility of stopping at some quaint shop or Flea market in a small town or village. Instead of having to convince others to stop you just pull off and do your thing. I never seem to get enough miles on my odometer each summer although I always resolve to change that practice every year. Maybe this summer I can wear off some rubber by visiting some good friends up north. Who knows? So for those of you that think I'm nuts I'd suggest you try a ride on a big HOG before you marry your opinion. For my friends I offer to take you on your first ride if and when you get up the courage.