I naively
had no idea that the process thus far would be so challenging. The new EU motorcycle
test itself took time, the various practices and tests ranging from room based
“Hazard Perception” to the mod 1 and 2 handling test took me over two months to
complete. But from the moment I stepped over a full powered road machine I was
hooked and road driving went from being a chore to a joy. An intense, engaging,
frightening, exciting escape and in the process I have entered an exclusive
tribe which at one time seemed remote hostile and exclusive.
I suppose
I wanted a new challenge. Mountain and road biking were too familiar and
although my rock climbing and off-piste snowboarding still hold the ability to
push me to my limits, to a degree they are a familiar frison. Adventure
motorbiking is a new thrill accompanied by new sensations, the heat of the
engine, the smell of leather, hot tires, oil and dirt, it’s an intoxicating
addictive mix. It comes with a set of sub cultures, folklawe, music and stories
yet street fighters, café racers, gangs and global travellers all appear bonded
by a camaraderie gained from riding motorcycles. It links the Harley Davidson
loving accountants with retro clothed oil splattered “wrench monkee”. For me
the attraction is adventure, it’s the lure of the Mongolian desert that draws
me into this niche, or at least the idea that I may travel there that does.