I'm behind, A ride, a poem, and more.

Computer was down for about a week and that put me somewhat behind. I could have used my computer at work, but I don't really like to do that so now I'm a bit behind. But I'm back now an I will get caught up.

Or maybe I won't. The 'indian summer" weather is holding, temps in the fifties, sunny and I love to ride in weather like this. Bundle up a bit and hit the road. The only thing that really keeps me off the bike is ice and snow and The Old Farmers Almanac says we're going to have a dry winter. My ski-bum friends and farmers will hate me for this but, I hope that forecast is accurate. I want to keep riding.

Speaking of which, I had a great ride yesterday, rumbling down some curving local backroads. Sunshine, cool temps, a nice ride which, not surprisingly, inspired a poem which I posted this morning on Songs of the Open Road for your enjoyment and my own therapy.

I ran across a guy on this ride who has just purchased a new Fat Boy and he was really enjoying himself; big grin on his face, his young son on the pillion, less than a hundred miles on the new bike. I still have a grin like that on my face and I hope you do too. I hope we don't lose it. That would be a pity; to start riding just for the transportation. You ride for the joy, and even a hard ride can be joyful. Get out there and put the wheels to the road. Ride for enlightenment. Ride for your soul.

The Big Nasty

In a couple of weeks on September 15 and 16, Idaho's largest motorcycle event, The Big Nasty, will take place on the western side of the state near the town of New Plymouth. Now if you're imagining wet-tshirts and rock-n-roll forget it. The Big Nasty is a hill climb, the largest such event in the Pacific Northwest region. Last years event was attended by over 10,000 spectators, and over 300 competitors participated. This years $25K purse assures an equally fantastic turnout. Camping, food (including breakfast) , beer are all available on site and tickets can be purchased online, $10 per day for adults ($12 at the gate). Camping costs $20 per vehicle, and hey have lots of room. Might want to pack a lawn chair and umbrella as there's not much shade.

The Big Nasty gets its name from the hill. In the past three years over 500 tries on the 460' pro hill have resulted in only 19 completed attempts. This year there's a new pro hill which runs 540'. The 460' will still be used for the "King of the Hill" competition and theres a 250' for some of the younger riders and lower classes. Should be interesting. If you're not into camping, there are motels within easy driving distance. You can get all the details, including a map and directions at the website.

I'll be there and I hope you will be too. We're gonna have a good time.