This morning I decided to take an early morning ride, before the Arizona sun got too hot. Being not a young man anymore, sometimes it’s difficult to convince myself to get out there and ride. But, as usual, no sooner did I get rolling did I forget all about age. It is indeed wonderful therapy to be out there, early on a Sunday morning, with little traffic and no particular destination in mind – just riding and enjoying each minute of it.

At age 75, I thought about the past as I drove north toward Tombstone, about the difficult early years, about two failed marriages along the way, two grown children living their own lives on the other side of the country, a long career in the state of Oregon, a new marriage now of 15 years, and how I’ve reached the point in my life of not much to do but ride the Fatboy, and take the wife out for dinner on the weekends. I stopped at a turnoff along Hwy 80 south of Tombstone, on the way to Bisbee, had a sandwich and drink – and then went on through Bisbee to the Burger King on Hwy 92, heading back toward Sierra Vista, where I stopped off for an ice cream cone. The Fatboy ran well this morning and brought me back home safely. Maybe next week I’ll do this again.

None of my family lived to be my age, so I guess I should consider myself pretty fortunate to be still wearing Levis and straddling a bike, while wandering around the desert communities of Arizona. Just thought I’d share my thoughts. Maybe I’ll see you on the road someday.

 

Awesome story dude. I hope I can do that when I hit your age. I'm only 55 and I feel all the creaks and groans some days.....

 

A great story of what life is about. Really helps one think during those times of being on the bike. Thanks for the story.

 

Sounds like you're enjoying looking back on things and are satisfied with what you see. Sounds like something we could all hope for.
Sometimes a person just needs to look at the overall picture and realize , Hey I am not doing too bad!
A solitary ride will give you a chance to reflect without distractions. What a nice morning!

 

Life has plenty of ups and downs and yes, riding is excellent therapy. You are a lucky man to be riding at your age with your knees in the breeze and retired. I on the other hand will work until I die, being the financial idiot I am. BTW, I say a prayer during every ride.

 

Thanks for sharing your great ride with us

 

Incredible story - do it more often. It keeps me young!

 

Here's to you!!! I'm 62 and I hope I'm still riding at 75, your a lucky man.

 

I'm 38, and that's exactly what I want to do at 75.
Thx for sharing this, have a safe ride.

 

Glad you were able to enjoy your morning. I enjoyed reading your post. Hope there are many more in your future.