My Love Of Riding A Harley Davidson
I was thinking about writing something about my love for riding my Harley Davidson, then on the way to work, a guy in a crotch rocket rode up next to me at a light, extended his fist, and gave me a bump. After that gesture, he moved up and took off when the light turned green. I’ll be honest, I don’t know one thing about that person, ethnicity, or anything, except that he has a love for two wheels like I do.
That’s the reason for this post. It constantly amazes me how riding brings people together. It doesn’t matter the political affiliation, ethnic background, or what kind of bike you’re riding, the waves and nodes I get come from all directions. Today’s moment is just the latest in many over the years.
My First Harley Davidson
I got my first motorcycle in my late teens, a Yamaha 650 street bike. A few years later I would get my first Harley Davidson. I bought a 1971 Sportster that needed more than its fair share of TLC. I bought it in the fall and took it straight to my friend’s garage where we tore it apart that night. Throughout the winter we’d slap some paint on it and get it shined up for the riding season. The following year we refreshed the motor. That thing was kick ass!
One of the guys I rode with once told me that riding a Harley would get in my blood. I remember thinking to myself, that would never happen. Here we are all these years later. I’ve only owned five Harleys in a little over thirty years, but I’ve never not had one in the garage.
When I got married, I told my future wife that if she could handle my playing hockey and riding my Harley, we’d be ok. It’s still going strong 24 years later. I’m still doing both.
I’ve made numerous friends from riding a motorcycle. Some I’m sure I never would’ve met. It’s truly a brotherhood or sisterhood I suppose as well.
Searching Out Places To Ride My Harley Davidson
I’ve spent countless hours and miles searching out dive bars to travel to on my Harley. I’m always looking for a fun or cool destination. I’ve ridden to work too many times to count. I’m not crazy about the ride to the studio, but I love to ride!
When I had to put my dog down in 2021, I called in sick and rode my Harley 280 miles that day just to clear my head. That was a tough day for sure.
I’ve ridden back to my hometown in western New York several times. I take the peaceful trek through Canada along the lake. I recall riding back to see a Kid Rock show in 2009. I had just gotten my new Harley and couldn’t wait to ride it. Rock texted me to see if I wanted to jump on his plane and fly over. I immediately responded “No, I’m going to ride” Ok, that might not have been the best decision I’ve ever made, LOL
I’ll even post on socials as to “where my Harley Davidson took me”. I’m always open to your input on where I should ride.
In closing, my friend who told me riding a Harley would get in my blood is no longer with us, but that statement will stick with me for the rest of my life. Yes, Bob, it’s in my blood!
I’ll see you guys on the road, or at bike night at the Diamondback Music Hall in Belleville on Wednesdays.
