I know that I touched a life when the expression on their face gets longer as their mouth drops open and eyebrows rise in amazement when I tell them I ride a motorcycle, as their mind reels through images. Their curiosity peeks after I enlighten them about some of my road trips while I straighten my suit jacket and continue to tell them about my plan to take a cross country ride on Gerard, a pet name for my bike. They listen intently as I describe the weekend warrior role I play along with a host of other riders that are professionals by day. Their bewildered look is priceless; of course, they follow up with “How cool,” or the typical “How did you get started?”
My husband got me started and I’ve been riding my own bike for 18 years now and have learned something new every time I ride; either about the bike, a city that we travel through, or the person traveling by my side. Stereotyping has lost its punch and gone are the days of motorcycle gangs, only small minorities of clubs today are outlaws. I know all walks of life that ride; from teachers to insurance agents, factory workers, and even attorneys. Are you picturing it now? Disregard the shell on the outside, it’s better to hold judgment.
The camaraderie among riders is nation wide. It is a brother and sisterhood that are known to band together to raise money for so many charitable events to help the less fortunate. I have the utmost respect for the giving and caring type they are. The dedication of the personal time spent and no matter the situation, you can always count on them. I have always been told to surround myself with good people and they will empower you. They are truly the salt of the earth.
It’s all about the ride. The 22 or more staggered positions of bikes rumbling down the highway are spectacular. I am taken away to another world as the wind whips my hair, the sound of the engines fixates my ears and I lose all thought to my day. The ride becomes my little piece of freedom.
While riding a five to seven hundred pound machine down the highway it’s about trust with the other riders that surround you. Trust is branded in their hearts. Whether a seasoned rider or one eager to learn, it doesn’t matter the time on the bike because there is a distinct loyalty among riders. You’ll never get left behind.
I have met some extraordinary riders over the years and they have become life long friends. They say it’s the greatest compliment to be called down to earth and that’s just the type of people we are. I am grateful for the opportunity to have ridden with them and hope I can continue to ride while no age limit is required. I’ll always be a biker babe; life is so much more fun.
Lori Dunse
An Advocate for Riders
Guest Columnist of The Jersey County Journal
Published September 22, 2011
November 22, 2011- -
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