I bought my first motorcycle as a need. I wanted something to get out and see the world. I did not know where it would lead me and what it would bring to my life. 50 years later I am getting closer to having an answer. I travelled the world riding motorcycles and met people that have the same spirit, and people that have taught me an awful lot about life. I got myself into some situations where by all rights I should not have made  it through, but have always seemed to come out the other side. Sure I got hurt along the way, I got cold, and I got wet, I went through all sorts of emotions. I've sung in my helmet, played the Jewish harp to myself, shouted out loud ( no one could hear me). I've struggled with my own self ability to master a road, a ride, a corner. But I have learnt that being on a motorcycle opens up a whole world that not a lot of people would understand. Sitting round at the end of a days ride listening to others talk of their own perceptions of the days activities is always an enlightening experience. It has taken me to outstanding locations, and I have been able to live some unforgettable  moments with others that are doing the exact same thing. I've stopped on the side of the road to take in a view that you would miss in a car, listening to your motor tick down as it cools is an experience not to be forgotten. Making corners that even MotoGp stars would be proud of, sometimes taking them in sheer fear wondering if you will come out the other side, hiding in that bus shelter, or in the roadside cafe waiting for the weather to pass. Grabbing that coffee cup with both hands to warm them up, and looking out to see your gloves tucked up on the engine. I spent hours talking to others doing the exact same thing. I've been out with a head full of troubles and found tranquility. Every time I get on a bike, I think how fantastic it is that I can do this. As time passes, I get a little hazy as to how many motorcycles I have owned, sometimes I even cant recall how many I actually own at the present time. I'm upwards of 117-118 motorcycles, that I have personally owned, it may be more. I think. These are not just motorcycles, these are part of me. People say to me why do you ride, only a motorcyclist would understand, only someone who gets it gets it. I am lucky to have had many great experiences with people just like myself, sharing in the memories and the rides. So take the time to sit back and think about what you do, the rides you've been on, and the people that you ride with. Don't lose that.

I do miss the 46 being out there.

Pretty tricky shit going on here

This is pretty amazing as well

The Britten did this years ago

I do like a good entertainment wall.

Got any 10 mils, and I wonder if his name is Tenmil Sockt

I've been watching a lot of American hot rod type shows, I love how they finish an engine bay off.

I still recall the very first one I saw, I so desperately wanted one, but waited a few months and got the 1100 instead.

There is something about the simplicity of a motorcycle, like this.

Once in Barcelona, I ended up in this exact same situation. I cant play the guitar, and I certainly cant sing, but that didn't stop me. I had a great night out.

One of the hardcore lizards back in his day.

Respect Sir

Over next winter, I am going to turn my Guzzi back into a shiney thing. At the moment it has all been dulled of to make it look like its age, but I've decided to pretty it up.

A friend of mine is going to build something like this. I hope I can help him, oh and take it for a ride when it's done.

5 years' ago today, I was doing this. This is the long walk to Italian MotoGp

 

Well that's all for this week. Hope you enjoyed it. My garage is nearly finished so I will have more time to make sure this thing gets out on time.