Since I met the man that is my best mate (Kiv's) I have had a facination with motorbikes.....I was always into them before (a fan of "The Doctor" and MotoGP), but the idea of touring was a new concept way back in 1998 at Uni and as far removed from the reality as you could be. I was wowed with tales of freedom and images of Hopper and Fonda on the open road in Easy Rider remains a utopian notion. But the fact that I know someone that has been there, done it, means it is somewhat more tangible. Kiv's famous (or is it infamous) "No Rest Til Hammerfest" epic voyage across Europe for LASCO is a version of the Long Way Round/Down that I can actually relate to as it was done by someone I know.
I am quite old to start my biking career....having passed my bike test aged 30. But who's counting!! I have been lucky enough to have travelled about and seen parts of the world that I had dreamed of...the Uni trip (with Kiv's) to Mombasa in Kenya, other trips to the U.S.A, Canada all over Europe...so in that respect I count myself as privilaged. I believe that travel and encountering other cultures is the best experience there is, and also helps you appreciate life much much more.
The bike that I begin my career on is sourced and generously supplied by the legend that is Kivi (notice a pattern here!!). It's a classic (literally and metaphorically). For me, at this stage, the ownership of a bike perhaps represents more than it does to others, or should. But, as my closest friends know, I have (not too long ago) been through things that alter your perception and life view...some of them events that everyone will have to deal with (the death of a loved one), others.....well......somewhat unusual. I also have friends leaving these shores to spend time living elsewhere (a comendable endevour), but this has also forced me to re-evaluate myself.
Perhaps it's the archaeological background, but I have always viewed the road[s] as marvellous inventions, and they are so much more than the way to get from A - B. If we look back at history, they represented communication, not just the transporting of people and goods, but transporting ideas, new concepts and I firmly believe that this is still the case, although it has got muddied in the 21st Century lifestyle (not to get too hippyish on it).
The bike I am getting is a good yard stick and starting point, wiser men than me rant about the BM's in general, but also these classics, and it is something that I am genuinely looking forward to. It is, though, unimaginable for me that I start this off without (at least for some of it) Kivi by my side....currently interested in the XT 600 series of bikes that is a departure from his years of lyality to BMW's creations. It is with great trepidation that I now embark on a new area of my life as a biker.....and look forward to the element of freedom that is promises to offer. First point though....new clutch.....and the usual upgraded oil / air filters to get in place!!
I am quite old to start my biking career....having passed my bike test aged 30. But who's counting!! I have been lucky enough to have travelled about and seen parts of the world that I had dreamed of...the Uni trip (with Kiv's) to Mombasa in Kenya, other trips to the U.S.A, Canada all over Europe...so in that respect I count myself as privilaged. I believe that travel and encountering other cultures is the best experience there is, and also helps you appreciate life much much more.
The bike that I begin my career on is sourced and generously supplied by the legend that is Kivi (notice a pattern here!!). It's a classic (literally and metaphorically). For me, at this stage, the ownership of a bike perhaps represents more than it does to others, or should. But, as my closest friends know, I have (not too long ago) been through things that alter your perception and life view...some of them events that everyone will have to deal with (the death of a loved one), others.....well......somewhat unusual. I also have friends leaving these shores to spend time living elsewhere (a comendable endevour), but this has also forced me to re-evaluate myself.
Perhaps it's the archaeological background, but I have always viewed the road[s] as marvellous inventions, and they are so much more than the way to get from A - B. If we look back at history, they represented communication, not just the transporting of people and goods, but transporting ideas, new concepts and I firmly believe that this is still the case, although it has got muddied in the 21st Century lifestyle (not to get too hippyish on it).
The bike I am getting is a good yard stick and starting point, wiser men than me rant about the BM's in general, but also these classics, and it is something that I am genuinely looking forward to. It is, though, unimaginable for me that I start this off without (at least for some of it) Kivi by my side....currently interested in the XT 600 series of bikes that is a departure from his years of lyality to BMW's creations. It is with great trepidation that I now embark on a new area of my life as a biker.....and look forward to the element of freedom that is promises to offer. First point though....new clutch.....and the usual upgraded oil / air filters to get in place!!
