The Anticipation of a Ride with Good Mates

There are few feelings in life that can match the anticipation of a motorcycle ride with good mates. The mere thought of it begins to build long before the ride starts. It starts during the week, when the weather forecast is checked more times than the news, and text messages fly back and forth: “Where are we meeting?” “Who’s coming?” “What time do we meet?” It’s a ritual of sorts, and each detail adds to the rising sense of expectation. By the time the morning of the ride arrives, the excitement is almost tangible.

Waking up on ride day carries a different kind of energy. The world seems brighter, even if the sun has yet to rise. There’s a quiet moment in the shed or garage, staring at the bike waiting patiently, new oil and filters, chain lubed, tank bag checked and rechecked to make sure everything you'll need ins on board. And ready. Swinging a leg over the machine feels like shaking hands with an old friend. It’s not just about transportation; it’s about freedom, camaraderie, and the adventures that await just down the road.

Meeting the mates is a highlight in itself. The sound of engines approaching from different directions signals the gathering, and each arrival is greeted with grins, jokes, and a bit of banter. There’s a shared understanding among motorcyclists that no matter how long it’s been since the last ride, the bond remains unchanged. Each helmet hides a smile, and each throttle blip says, “Today’s going to be good.”

The anticipation isn’t just about where you’re going—it’s about who you’re with. Riding solo has its joys, but nothing compares to a group of mates carving their way through the countryside, staggered across the lanes like a moving formation. The anticipation builds as you think about the rhythm of the road ahead: the sweeping bends, the straight stretches where engines roar, and the small-town cafés where laughter flows as easily as the coffee.

There’s also a playful edge to it. Everyone knows someone will push a little harder into the corners, someone else will fall behind just to enjoy the view, and someone will inevitably get ribbed for missing a gear or needing an extra fuel stop. It’s all part of the day, and those moments become the stories told again and again, long after the ride ends.

 

You may have noticed a few photos of this gentleman. He's Michael Dobson, a figure that has lurked around the NZ motorcycle race scene for since ever. A very talented person and all round nice guy to boot. Well Michael is not well. The rust has got to him and he is currently in care. He will be missed greatly.

It's that time of the year again. Cant wait for my first feed.