On the road again

Spring came to most of the nation, even if some late unseasonable storms played havoc in portions of the country.  Nevertheless, as spring passes and summer approaches, the bikers across the states begin hitting the highways and byways and planning for the next road trip.

  

Here in the southwest, the Laughlin River Run informally marks the beginning of the serious riding season.  Of course, the area's prevalent weather encourages and permits year 'round riding.  The serious riding, however, comes late spring and into the summer and early fall.

For patriots and Vietnam veterans, the annual Run for the Wall in May is a must do, bucket list ride.

For the rest of us, thoughts of open, virtually traffic free roads dominate. 

Whether riding solo or two up, the annual road trip is singularly important.

Away from urban sprawl, perhaps along the coast line, or rolling along in valleys and over mountains, the real biker contemplates the open road.

As written of earlier, the experience actually indescribable to one who has never thrown a leg over a motorcycle.  Apart from the freedom accorded a rider, who is out in the elements.  This physical expression of independence is unlike anything else.  Yes, the so-called biker image may play into it for some.

And, to be honest, the looks one receives out on the road are uniquely satisfying, whether at the road side eatery, when stopped for gas, or while just resting between miles.  Young boys, eyes wide in amazement.  Adult males, middle-aged and older, with their woulda, coulda, shoulda envious stares.  Yep, those looks contribute to the experience.

But the best part for this old gray beard is simply rolling along the empty-to-near-empty road, with the sounds of the bike accompanying the basic pleasure of riding a motorcycle.  

   
I, for one, am narrowing down the when and have opened discussions with my lifelong buddy and fellow rider as to where.  The northwest?  Arizona, when it's cooler?  Who knows.  By June, however, the when and where will be set and serious planning underway.  Can't wait.