MC Nation Podcast

As I rode to work this morning enjoying the cool, crisp air it occurred to me just how fortunate I am to be able to ride a motorcycle. There are many people out there who would love to experience the ride but can not for many reasons. I have been blessed with the finances to be able to enjoy this great sport. I also have coordination to manipulate the clutch and throttle on take off and during the shift process. I am able to use the clutch and both brakes simultaneously as I downshift during a stop, which is a feat similar to playing the drums. Four limbs moving at once. Both hands and both feet working in harmony to slow and get the motorcycle to stop smoothly. I also have been blessed with the physical strength to be able to bring the motorcycle off the sidestand and upright.

These things we take for granted every day. I could not imagine loving something so much and not being able to participate. The motorcycle industry has made great strides in attempting to make motorcycling accessible to anyone. I applaud them for the three wheelers they produce so that people who have lost lower limbs, or those who just do not have the leg strength to hold up a 600 lb. motorcycle, can enjoy riding. I thank the manufacturers that provide automatic motorcycles or “paddle” shifting motorcycles so that those with prosthetic arms can enjoy a ride. In the early 1980’s, one of my classmates, who had lost his left arm just below the elbow, rode a Hondamatic around. I appreciate the innovation from all the manufacturers of items that bring those with disabilities closer to the sport.

I have never experienced anything in life that equals the feeling of freedom or that provides me calmness of life like motorcycling does. I am grateful to all those that make the dream come true for all of us.

Ride Safe

Steve and the MC Nation