Editorial: February 1, 2004

Editorial: February 1, 2004
FAVORITE THINGS

Riding my Harley is a favorite passion of mine, and it is most likely yours as well. But, though we may share a passion for riding, we probably have differences of opinion on our favorite and not so favorite aspects of being a biker. Everyone's different, thank goodness ! It would really be BORING if we all liked the same stuff and agreed on everything, wouldn't it ??

So here goes: A Few Of My Favorite Things

• The first "crank" of the day. My whole attitude changes into a real sense of adventure. I love that deep throaty rumble from a Harley V-twin. It makes me feel detached from the rest of the corporate world. I am traveling in style.
• Discovering new places. We are so lucky to have such a beautiful island with so many scenic areas to ride to. From the sandy beaches, to the majestic coast lines, to the lush upcountry, and all the way up to the top of Haleakala. You just never know what you might encounter on the road. I always feel like bustin' out with a chorus of America the Beautiful !!
• Riding down long, winding roads. Roads that go on forever. Roads that have long sweeping curves, that you can really lean into.
• The smell of fresh pine or some exotic flower on the side of the road. Your sense of smell becomes enhanced. Different scents bring back lost memories. Like smelling fresh bread as you drive past the bakery, or fresh brewed coffee from your favorite coffee stop. Thoughts of Christmas past flood my mind as I ride by the Christmas tree farm. Then there's that horrible smell from the car in front of you. Yuck !!
• Seeing a group of bikers going down the road. It shows a sense of individualism, camaraderie and solidarity. It's a celebration of motorcycles and riding. You never know who you might meet on the road.

A Few Of My Not So Favorite Things

• Stupid drivers in a car or on a bike. Someone once said "stupid is, as stupid does." How true! Why does it seem like most of the stupid ones are on the road?
• Cigarette butts thrown out the window of the car in front of me. Last time I checked, littering was illegal, and ignorance was out of style.
• Mechanical problems !!!! Ughhh !!!! Need I say more ???
• Red or blue lights flashing in my rear view mirror. My heart usually skips a beat, whether it's a cop car, fire truck, or ambulance on their way to a bad situation. I say a quick prayer for all involved.
• Stop & go traffic. First gear, second gear, back down to first gear, coast, first gear, then stop. Then you start over and do it all again. Now your bike is running hot. Oh boy . no fun.

Favorite, or not so favorite. Let me hear from you !!

Comments by Nancy Steele Editor and Historian