Motorcycles and Cars

A lot of people are surprised to learn that in my younger years I was a member of an outlaw motorcycle club. I drove a “chopper” or customized bike. I typically dressed in leather and wore a “cut” or vest with the “colors” or logo of the club on the back. My colors got me respect in a lot of places where I traveled and I was proud of them.

But I eventually ended that chapter of my life. Part of the reason was I grew up spiritually and wanted something different for myself. Part of the reason was three accidents, the last of which almost got me killed.

People who drive cars just do not see motorcycles. All three of my crashes were caused by the same issue--an approaching car driver making a left turn right in front of me. They looked ahead, didn’t see my bike and turned, giving me only seconds to react before slamming into them at speed.

Still, I loved riding and to this day salivate when I see a nicely cut bike. However, the second thing Lindsay said after she accepted my engagement ring was “if you ever get back on a motorcycle I’ll break up with you.” I don’t think she really means it but I’ve never been willing to experiment.

So my automotive adventures have been confined to driving the sort of cars I like--small frame European style cars. I hate the huge sleds many American car makers put on the road and don’t ever ask my opinion of an SUV or a Hummer.

Well, I needed to replace my former car. It’d served me well, but at 93,000 miles and a failed brake system it was not worth repairing. So off it went as a charity donation, and I had the fun of going shopping.

Heck, I turn 60 in a few months and I decided to get the car I’ve always wanted to own--a Mini-Cooper. I’m not even going to pretend that it’s a practical car. But it’s really cool and is the most fun to drive of anything I’ve ever owned short of a motorcycle.

Hey...ya’ gott’a have some fun. Right?