“Wind Therapy”

For my final blog entry, I wanted to talk about one of my personal favorite outdoor recreation activities, riding motorcycles. Ever since I was in elementary school I’ve rode motorcycles of sorts. I started out riding dirt bikes on trails just for fun. It wasn’t something I did often but didn’t take it very seriously. My dad had grown up riding motorcycles as well, and even got my mom into it. My parents began attending a local bar in Washington on Thursdays for “bike night.” Over time they met lots of people and even had their own crew of sorts. Once I got to see the community that surrounded motorcycling, I knew right away that I wanted to get my endorsement and purchase a street bike.

Last spring, after a bit of looking, I finally found a bike that fit for me. I had been saving up money from working at a vet clinic for some time and was able to purchase the bike with my own money. I didn’t know many people who rode bikes and for the first couple months my parents didn’t feel comfortable letting me ride on my own, so instead my dad and I would end up going on rides together almost weekly. My dad and I don’t have much to bond over, so having this shared activity was a great way to strengthen our relationship.

Fast forward to months later, my brother got my moms old motorcycle and was planning on trailering it back to Kansas, so I asked him if he would bring my bike down as well. Lucky for me, he did. I haven’t got the opportunity to ride with anyone since I’ve moved out here, but I have since taken many rides on my own. I still don’t know any proper destinations to ride to and I must say Kansas is nowhere near a scenic as Washington, but solo rides have become one of my favorite things to do.

Going for rides is a great way to clear my head, discover new places and just enjoy myself. I’ve heard motorcycle rides being called “wind therapy” and I couldn’t agree more. Being here in Kansas where it’s flat and a lot more windy, takes this saying to a whole new level. It’s crazy how relaxing but also exhilarating that riding motorcycles can be. Nothing beats speeding down an open road and feeling the wind against you.

This being said, riding motorcycles can be very dangerous. Even though Kansas does not have helmet laws, I still fully gear up. I always wear a helmet, a padded jacket, proper shoes, and on occasion protective pants as well. Another common saying in the community is, “dress for the slide, not the ride.” If you ask any motorcyclist, they will most likely tell you that everyone is bound to crash at one point or another. My mother is especially nervous of this and has told my family members to not let me take off without gear on.

As much as I love sharing experiences with friends and family, as that is primarily what I participate in outdoor recreation activities for, riding motorcycles is one of the few activities that I enjoy just as much solo. I’ve been on group rides before, and while it’s extremely fun, nothing tops the freedom of not knowing where you’re going, not be strapped down and not caring. It’s not for everyone, but if you think motorcycle riding is something you might enjoy, I say give it a shot and don’t let the fear of it hold you back. If you’re properly educated, properly prepared and alert, what could go wrong? Motorcycle riding is a fun outdoor recreation activity and I would recommend it to anyone who is interested in trying new things.