Unveiling the Ride: My Journey into Motorcycle Culture

Before I started riding motorcycles, did I at first presume something of motorcycles or the culture surrounding it that I now consider to be silly in retrospect? Let’s delve into my journey from a young boy with no preconceived notions to a seasoned rider and enthusiast.

From Mini Bikes to Road bikes

My motorcycle journey began when I was young, with mini bikes and trail bikes. This was followed by road bikes, and I have enjoyed the ride ever since. The reason? Motivation, not for prestige or status, but because I simply enjoy it. There’s something undeniably thrilling about the experience.

Initial Impressions and Cultural Myths

I had no presumptions whatsoever; instead, I knew it'd be fun because I had already been an avid bicycle rider. During my younger days, there was no biker culture, and motorcycles weren't considered rebel vehicles in my hometown. It was a different era, before the wild days of modern motorcycling lore, when the sport was more of a personal journey of discovery.

Overcoming Early Challenges and Safety Tips for Newbies

I was a bit worried that Harley Davidsons were difficult to ride—but let me assure you, once you get moving, they become quite easy to handle. Even the heaviest one, which I currently ride, at 450kg, becomes manageable. Of course, parking manuevers on a slope require more skill. However, don’t judge all motorcycles by this size and weight. Another misconception I had was about the camaraderie in motorcycle clubs. I underestimated how great the company can be. The Motorbike Riders: Motorcycle Magazine (BR: MM) is the epitome of this tight-knit community.

The Pursuit of Speed and Rising to the Challenge

Many young boys, just the thought of riding fast with the wind blowing in your face, was all we needed to have a motorbike between our legs. Young and eager, I assumed I was capable of riding a large sport bike simply because I was 16 and had already been riding mini bikes, ATVs, and dirt bikes since I was 9. In fact, I was practically an expert, right? Wrong. It turned out that I wasn't nearly prepared enough at that age, as I quickly learned when I got a 250 cruiser with no power from my father, who, mercifully, made me start out cautiously. Years later, after taking more lessons and driving larger, more powerful bikes, I eventually made it to 48. For those just starting, I would highly recommend taking lessons, starting on a light bike with a small engine, and taking even more lessons.

Illegality and Transformation into Legitimate Motorcycling

My motorcycle journey didn’t always start legally. I started riding a motorized bicycle illegally around age 15–16. It had a headlight that I blanked off with a black cardboard disk. If I spotted a copper (police), I would pedal furiously to avoid detection. I managed to get away with it by miracle, and it happened in a country where the rules were somewhat lenient. My adventures didn’t end there. Realizing the potential of motorcycling, I legally moved into the 'real world' of motorcycling.

Broadening the Horizons

My first legitimate motorcycle was a BSA Bantam, a small, low-powered, and slow machine that was relatively safe. This was followed by the Triumph Tiger 100, and I never looked back. Over the years, I clocked over a million miles on four continents and owned a dozen different machines. I even road-tested over 150 bikes, from small 'suitcase' machines to superbikes. The concept of a ‘culture’ surrounding motorcycle riding never really occurred to me; I just liked to ride. My journey reflects a broader love for the ride and the camaraderie among motorcycle enthusiasts.