a biker's revelation

[Russell A Locke]

I bought my R11RT because a friend let me ride his R11RS. I don't think BMW riders are THAT bad.....the fact that some of us ride KLRs too should make that obvious. We are constantly trying to convert HD riders to the wonders of Beemerdom....how better than to let them experience the joy of a flat twin? 1. KLR riders are really friendly and generous. I doubt you'd see a BMW GS rider lend theirs out to anyone! So why are we so willing? Could it be because we know the bike can take it? Or maybe we know we're going to get another rider in the KLR family (they're going to get hooked, you know it!). My guess is that we love to see it moving, and rarely get the chance. Poetry in motion.... They are out there but few and far between. I teach MSF because it is very satisfying to see a non rider go from pushing the bike Sat morning to riding figure 8's in traffic on Sun morning. True, not all make the grade but then not all should. It is still very gratifying. And hopefully, we pass on some of our experience to those who don't realize the value of protective gear and good riding habits. We provide the bikes AND teach saftey and riding skills. 2. Could this idea carry over to motorcycling in general? I've never come across a mean rider, granted my experience is rather limited. Seeing as motorbiking is harder to get into (ie- finding a bike to practice on is harder than finding a car), only the nice people will get into the sport, keeping our 'society' chock full of the fun friendly types. If you haven't taken an MSF course, either RSS or Experienced, do so! Many states subsidize the program to the point that its almost free (truly free in some states I think.) Ignore this if it doesn't jive with your experiences. I just wanted to thank the list for all the help that they've given me thus far in my riding career. The comments and suggestions are worth having to wade through a little unsolicited email (but not spam, that's a meat! ;-] ) every once in a while. Tim 'I wave at everyone' Ryce A9 - Vancouver, BC