Taking the Road Less Traveled: My Journey to Motorcycle Mastery
You might think someone like me has no business even contemplating getting a motorcycle license. A petite woman in her fifties, a seasoned nurse, a loving wife, a mother to four grown children, and a doting grandmother to two delightful grandsons. So, why did I feel the urge?
I was driven by the idea of acquiring an atypical skill; one that defies any preconceived notions people might have of me. After all, surprising others can be a valuable asset in uncertain times. A 2018 study found that 19% of motorcycle owners are women, a figure that has doubled since 2009.
Here’s my rollercoaster journey into the world of motorcycling.
The Spark
About half a decade ago, my husband gifted me a Honda Rebel 250 motorcycle for Christmas. For him, a rider since his youth, motorcycling is second nature. He envisioned us taking road trips together.
I pondered his sanity.
Cruising behind him, protected from gusts and bugs, had always been my comfort zone. The motorcycle, with its intimidating stature, seemed daunting for a beginner like me.
Yet, over the summers, I made tentative attempts at mastering it in our spacious backyard. Shifting gears without stalling the engine, navigating uphill, and perfecting starts and stops proved challenging. It was evident; I needed expert guidance.
Seeking Expertise
I enrolled in a renowned motorcycle training program. The package covered:
- Motorcycles for practice.
- An indoor classroom in a trailer.
- A designated training ground.
As students, we were expected to adhere to a strict dress code, which included safety gear. The intensive course spanned three days from 8 am to 6 pm.
My Motorcycle Training Diary
On day one, we went through rigorous theoretical lessons, followed by a written test. The next two days, albeit soaked in relentless rain, were all about hands-on training.
Our group of about 12 trainees was led by two contrasting instructors. The stern one, whom I’ll call “Jeff”, and his kinder counterpart, “Bob”.
Day 1:
The initial exercises were simple, like cruising in the first gear with feet grounded. As the day progressed, the drills became more intricate. Jeff’s frequent outbursts at my mistakes made the experience excruciating. Still, I was determined to complete what I had started.
Day 2:
The weather worsened, making the lessons more challenging. Despite the continuous downpour, we were expected to perfect complicated maneuvers. Sadly, the day was marred by humiliation and criticism, mainly from Jeff.
Day 3:
Test day. We were evaluated based on the skills we had practiced. When my turn came, I nailed the test, determined not to let Jeff see how much he had rattled me. It was a triumphant moment when he signed off on my certificate.
Why Learn Motorcycling?
My narrative is a testament to persistence, not a cautionary tale. Pushing through adversity, especially when doubting oneself, is the essence of triumph. The worst outcome? Repeating the course, preferably with a gentler instructor.
For those pondering motorcycling, I recommend the Motorcycle Safety Foundation as a starting point.
Beyond Riding: A Survival Skill?
In a world where unpredictability reigns, a motorcycle might just be your ticket to safety. Not only is it more fuel-efficient, but its agility can be a game-changer in evading potential threats. Imagine escaping a pursuer by navigating through narrow paths or rough terrains.
While it might sound exaggerated, acquiring uncommon skills could be pivotal in dire situations, as depicted in movies like “The Road” and books such as “One Second After”. In times of societal turmoil, it’s best to be prepared.
Final Reflections
Motorcycling isn’t just about the thrill of speed or the allure of the open road. It’s about being prepared for the unpredictable, and the unmatched agility it offers can be a lifeline when traditional routes fail.
So, how about you? Are there any unique skills you’ve acquired or wish to pursue?
