If you asked me about owning a motorcycle a few years ago, I would've told you that my motorcycle days were over. I've owned four, 2 dirt bikes and 2 street bikes - all before age 25. Then I got married and didn't have the time or money to own one. Now, as my children are all practically adults, I've decided to try motorcycling again.
The bug bit me at a truck show of all places. One of the vendors rode his BMW R1200GS and I couldn't keep my eyes off of it. The adventure bike styling was new to me and I found out that these bikes could go almost anywhere - off road or on. Below is the bike that rekindled the 2 wheel desire.
That BMW looked like something out of a Road Warrior movie. I knew then that I wanted a bike that could go on or off road to a degree. I couldn't afford a BMW so I chose a more affordable option that could do nearly what the BMW could do. I chose the Suzuki V Strom 1000 (below). This bike has a more off road type suspension than most street bikes and comes with a slightly more aggressive tire. It comes with Bridgestone Battle Wings which are a 90% street and 10% off road tire. That sounds like the percentages I'll be starting from anyway.
As truckers, we have all seen the dangers of the road. Riding a motorcycle seems illogical in this time of hyper-distraction. I've noticed something of the cars that pass me in my truck - the driver usually has their cell phone in their hand. I don't know if they're texting, navigating or what, but they are definitely distracted. I'm signed up for the Motorcycle Safety Foundation's safety course at my local community college next month. Hopefully they'll be able to teach me some techniques to stay safe and watch out for all the distracted drivers.