May 9, 2008

Feeling the pinch

"We call you organ donors," she said.

She was referring to my excitement at the prospects of getting a motorcycle, but she's familiar with the medical industry, particularly the paramedics, and decided to let me in on their nicknames for those who prefer two wheeled transportation.

This weekend I took a bold step in my long goal of actually owning and operating a motorcycle. I signed up for a motorcycle safety course on July 3rd and if I pass I get my endorsement. Assuming I complete the course without incident I plan on becoming another candidate for road splatter.

Why you ask? With the current gas prices I believe consuming less fuel will not only benefit my pocket book in the long run, but the enviornment as well. Plus it may be fun.

Listed below are but a few bikes I'm currently looking at:
This is the Honda Shadow Aero 08. I sat on one last week and it felt good. Got the options and engine size I'm looking for, cause I'm not looking to go 1600 cc or higher. Plus it's big enough to take it on weekend rides. Affordable too and good gas mileage. I'm not sure if that's the color I want, but we'll see.

Here we have the Kawasaki Vulcan 900. It's about the size I'm looking for and feels comfortable when sitting on it, but that can be a different story when I actually take it out for a test ride.


This is my dream bike, the Harley Fatboy. Given the size and expense I doubt I'll pick this as a first bike. I'm going to wreck at some point and I'd hate to dump something that's worth more than my car. Still there's a part of me that says to hell with it and just buy what I want.

I know I've written about buy a motorcycle numerous times, but this time if all goes well I won't bore the blogsphere with my goal anymore. If you suddenly see me stop posting though without warning, please wish me a peaceful rest in the afterlife.

"My dreams for the future are simple: work, a happy, healthy family, a lovely long motorcycle ride, and continuing the struggle to awaken people to the need for serious human rights reform." - Mike Farrell

12 comments:

SareBeth said...

Oww oww! The second one is my fave

Grace said...

That's awesome! I've been interested in learning to ride a motorcycle for years now... my parents are trying to talk me out of it though. The second one is HOT! I'm so jealous.

Mattbear said...

Organ donors...bah! I've been in a motorcycle wreck at 65mph and I'm still here to tell you about it.

I have to say I think the Vulcan is one of the most comfortable Japanese bikes I've seen.

Anonymous said...

If you get in an accident you will be splattered all over the pavement. There won't be enough left of you to donate.

AccountDeleted said...

Have I ever told you what a bad influence you are?
Count me in, I've been waiting to get a bike for years, and there's no better time than during a midlife crisis. Maybe we should start the "Blogger Bandido Motorcycle Club"

Claire said...

Nice (potential) wheels!

Cxx

Miss Ash said...

They kind of scare me....but in a fun way!

JLee said...

I'm with everyone else and like the Vulcan. Then you can ride around and say "live long and prosper" while doing the hand sign. Maybe not...
My brother was almost killed when in a motorcycle wreck, but they still are awesome.

Jessica said...

If it wwas practical I'd love to get around on a cute little Vespa.

Scott said...

Looks awesome! Enjoy.

Anonymous said...

FATBOY!!! Although, I do like the Honda as well if you want a starter. Although, as per our agreement, you need to "try them on" for me before I can give my final input. BTW, You forgot to mention that men on bikes are HOT and you KNOW that is another reason you want one. PK has spoken

Andrew said...

I think the correct term is "donor cycles"