Last fall I sold my bike which I didn't ride during the 2017 season. At the end of March my membership in the MOA expires and I will not be renewing it.
I was in my late 40's when I first rode a motorcycle. It was a challenge which I am glad that I undertook. With a couple courses, a lot of reading, and some practice I became a moderately good rider. Had two crashes - the first I still don't understand, and the second a collision caused by another BMW rider on the Beartooth Pass when he encountered sand in the only passing lane on the whole highway. That crash totaled my K75 and lead to the purchase of the K100RS. (For K bike lovers, the sale went to a guy who not only paid me a very fair price but also made a number of improvements, including fixing the faulty ABS system! Hope this fine bike stays on the road for many more years.)
So why quit riding, you ask? Well reduced leg strength and balance problems mainly. The last year I did any riding, the scariest part was backing that heavy bike down a platform out of the shed where I couldn't go too slowly - and I once dropped it. Another factor was that a friend I visited a good days ride away twice a year in the Kootenai (back road riding) moved to the Vancouver metropolitan area - which is danger country for me. Friends I used to ride with have moved away. It just seemed that the fun factor of riding was overbalanced by the fear factor - a balance I think all thoughtful riders do weigh.
About the MOA: I've attended a couple of the big rallies and really enjoyed the experience. I think the monthly mag is first rate. But the biggest bang for my subscription buck has to be right here. I've received so much smart advice on my bikes. I also enjoyed some political discussion until it was cut off. I have also enjoyed various discussions about riding safely - something that entered my mind early when I was a late starter in riding. I will probably check in on occasion, but of course will not post after the end of the month. Just wanted to thank all of you who have participated in my on-line life.
I was in my late 40's when I first rode a motorcycle. It was a challenge which I am glad that I undertook. With a couple courses, a lot of reading, and some practice I became a moderately good rider. Had two crashes - the first I still don't understand, and the second a collision caused by another BMW rider on the Beartooth Pass when he encountered sand in the only passing lane on the whole highway. That crash totaled my K75 and lead to the purchase of the K100RS. (For K bike lovers, the sale went to a guy who not only paid me a very fair price but also made a number of improvements, including fixing the faulty ABS system! Hope this fine bike stays on the road for many more years.)
So why quit riding, you ask? Well reduced leg strength and balance problems mainly. The last year I did any riding, the scariest part was backing that heavy bike down a platform out of the shed where I couldn't go too slowly - and I once dropped it. Another factor was that a friend I visited a good days ride away twice a year in the Kootenai (back road riding) moved to the Vancouver metropolitan area - which is danger country for me. Friends I used to ride with have moved away. It just seemed that the fun factor of riding was overbalanced by the fear factor - a balance I think all thoughtful riders do weigh.
About the MOA: I've attended a couple of the big rallies and really enjoyed the experience. I think the monthly mag is first rate. But the biggest bang for my subscription buck has to be right here. I've received so much smart advice on my bikes. I also enjoyed some political discussion until it was cut off. I have also enjoyed various discussions about riding safely - something that entered my mind early when I was a late starter in riding. I will probably check in on occasion, but of course will not post after the end of the month. Just wanted to thank all of you who have participated in my on-line life.
