I was "forced" to admit to myself after a ride around town this morning on my old Royal Enfield Bullet that I never have had a bad motorcycle ride.
And I haven't just ridden for fun. I was a commuter, riding in all weather and all hours. I've been cold and wet, and there have been close calls and breakdowns. Once I had to push the motorcycle home.
But I always had a good time that left me feeling mentally cleansed and happy.
Yes, I admit to cheating. I've only ever ridden in South Florida and Southern California, both regions renown for sunny weather.
I feel like a bit of a phony when I read The Gun, magazine of the Royal Enfield Owners Club (UK). There was this note, recently, from Leo Nelson, chapter correspondent in Suffolk:
"If you read the Branch Reports, you will be aware by now that the Norfolk and Suffolk Branches support each other. You may have also formed the impression that I have a fixation about the weather. Well, I am British and apparently that's all we talk about, but in this case, with some justification."
His ride reports continued with:
"Forecast, heavy rain and strong winds all day...
"Forecast, heavy rain, hail, thunder, lightning and strong winds...
"Sure enough, the rain and I arrived at the same time, proving my waterproofs were anything but..."
Ever the optimist, Leo concludes with this:
"So, what's the point of the weather report? The forecast puts people off from getting the bike out, and this impacts attendance. However, if you just take a chance, the weather may not be as bad as the forecast.
"Safe and dry riding, (unlikely if you are heading to a Norfolk or Suffolk Branch meeting)."
Stiff upper lips all around, there in Britain. Admirable.
Yet the fact is that Florida's weather this summer has been unusually hot and humid and it does put me off. There are times when I have thought that a little rain might feel nice.
Instead, I'm back from my ride soaking with sweat, eager to get out of boots and jeans and into shorts and flip-flops.
Am I weakening?
I only decided to go riding this morning because it was partly cloudy, blocking the blasting heat of direct sun.
Now there's a "Heat Advisory" for 11 a.m., only 30 minutes from now, and I'm frankly glad to be back at my computer, in the air conditioning.
How much hotter can it get?
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