I also love fettling my bikes - it too gives me a sense of calm but without the buzz. Just a quiet feeling of satisfaction in which I can lose myself. Oddly, I don't get it with my other passion, gliding. It requires focus and concentration, and there is a buzz in flying well. But maybe because I don't like heights, I don't lose a sense of fear, so don't get the same level of mental calm.
I also fly and actually find it very similar in that it completely clears my mind of everything else because I know losing concentration will probably kill me.
Another benefit I get from riding. I am not all that young, but riding my motorcycles keeps my balance and motor skills up. I am too old to play most sports. I really noticed a difference last year when I had to limit my riding due to some health issues. I got back to riding kind of late in the season, but I noticed how rusty my skills had become. MUST ride more this year, as soon as the weather gets warmer. ...J.D.
@Wessa I don't like a lot of the "Modern" electronic trickery on modern bike's , I saw the new Rocket last week , and it has the following that I really hate , Tiny led instrument panel with all the gizmo's I don't want , the pillion seating and pegs are a JOKE , other than that it would be a great bike !! My America has just the right amount of modern technology , hey it even has electric lights ! I ride because I'm in charge , even If I'm not quite doing it perfectly correctly ... I've driven heavy vehicles with all the gizmo's and exactly the same vehicle without , and the vehicles without are much easier to drive , and ABS brakes I could easily out brake , as abs cuts out the 3% or so of maximum stopping power.
I ride becuse i am waiting for the final surprise. Especially lately no real family Besides my wife and i dont want to outlive her.
1.Adrenaline. 2. Splendid isolation. 3.Camaraderie. 4. Reward of using attained skills. 5. Me time. 6. Being different to the crowd. 7. Endorphins. 8. Joy of travel. 9. Those indescribable “WOW” moments that only bikes provide. 10. The joy of owning something desirable to others. A great question that I had to think about for a while . Item 2 would seem to clash with item 3 but we all know exactly what this means and how we feel about our shared passion.
Hi @capt I'm not sure that @dilligaf will agree with you about the R3, but I have to agree with you that it is not everybodies want in a bike. On the electronics as I said before ABS and traction control are both really helpful safety addition to any bike. You are correct that you can ride without them, but if they are available on the bike for me you just as well have them. As for the rider modes these are personal choice, you either like them or you don't. The main thing is that you enjoy what you ride. Stay lucky and safe.....
All I would say is it would be nice that you could have a a choice when you buy. Been riding the old way so long that these things are not that much of a priority to me. ...J.D.
NUDGER is the first bike I’ve ever had with electronic riding aids I think they’re brilliant When I was looking for a Rocket I wouldn’t have one without ABS after having a shot of my mates bike and locking the front wheel in a corner when the weight of it took me by surprise Traction control has been a godsend whilst pulling a loaded trailer out of a muddy field The new Rocket (I’m getting one) is equipped with cornering stability assistance through the ABS/traction control system as well This to me can only be a good thing I know that the rocket isn’t everyone’s cup of tea but I’ve hankered after one for years now and nearly didn’t get NUDGER When the new ROCKET 3R was announced I simply couldn’t resist any longer and had one ordered within a week
Well put that man. I do understand those that may not have ridden a bike with rider aids and why they don't see the benefits.
I have to say that my Speedy is the first bike I've had with ABS and I was very sceptical at first, until the day I was following a Transit who braked to a stop existing a sharp bend, had it not been for the ABS I'm pretty sure I'd have been on my arse or in the back of said van, so I'm definitely pro ABS now
I think I said after returning from Spain on the Street 765RS that on more than one occasion whilst riding like a knob, a combination of the ABS & traction control got me round a corner, one of which my mate who was behind me crashed on, it was one of those corners that looked like it was going to sweep but tightened instead Fortunately for my mate neither him or the bike were badly damaged by the off, but as he said afterwards my bike with ABS, slowed without drama, his locked! After racing an ancient Bandit last year with no modern gizmos I can confirm that riding with rider aids is a lot easier & safer than without!
Dilligaf Ever thought about a nice Rocket 111. I think it might suit you Sir. You know Sandi T is looking but now wit the ailing wrist she may not get there before you. Regards Joe.
Wire-Wheels, I know just how you feel, having been back to biking for nearly 2 years after 25+ years away....Rusty is not strong enough, corrosion is nearer! But I’m getting there. Cheers,Ken.