Hurricane Idalia passed south of us luckily, so though we had some rain and wind on Thursday, we were left a gorgeous Saturday in the storm’s wake—sunny and 76 degrees. Perfect riding weather is that which keeps the rider comfortably cool which is what I was. At the beginning of the ride, I almost regretted keeping my jackets half-zipped because the air was so cool, but the bright sun soon warmed me up enough to make for a sensational ride.
Bill was feeling better, so he was able to join me. As we headed out, a Sulphur butterfly flew along the left side of us, slightly behind Bill and slightly ahead of me. I think the butterflies might be attracted to the bright colors of our motorcycles—the bright crimson on the Triumph Rocket and the sunny yellow on the R Nine T. Whatever it is that brings the butterflies around, I appreciate the chance to see and admire them.
During my ride, I focused on the feeling of the handlebars as I counter steered through the turns. I watched as the slight pressure on one side of the bars let the bike flick through the curves. I also worked on my stops and my no-look turns. I noticed how much improved I am on the no-look turns especially on the right turns.
It turns out I can’t not pre-load the front brake, so I’ve adjusted my strength training to prevent hand numbness. At the first tingles of numbness, I began releasing the front brake as I approached stops so I could flex my fingers and shake out my hand. This strategy enabled me to complete the ride without having to stop and shake my arm out. I also wondered if my improving grip is helping me ride longer without numbness. I’ve been working at the gym on chin ups which is strengthening my grip. I just realized that this may benefit me on my motorcycle rides.
As we rode, I noted how the green leaves and green grass all seem a deeper shade than they did at the onset of summer creating a tranquil lushness. We’ve had enough rain and cool days this summer to allow the crape myrtles, magnolias, brown-eyed Susans, roses, and clematis to bloom throughout the summer. Though the increasing number of Canadian geese indicate that autumn is well on its way. Luckily, I was able to see several more Sulphurs, a Tiger Swallowtail, some Cabbage Whites and, as I parked the motorcycle in the garage, I glimpsed a Pink-edged Sulphur. I’ll enjoy the butterflies over the next few weeks rides because soon they’ll be gone.
Flutterby Biker 