It finally looked to be a warmer day without much wind and sunny, highs in the low 60s, so I decided that today was the day to attempt starting the bike for the season and my first ride. Much to my surprise, when I went to start my bike she immediately did so. No back fires, no hitting the throttle hard or keeping the choke open for long. I swear I do not remember it starting so nicely on the first try of the season in all of the years I’ve owned it.
Kevin joined me by meeting me at my place and I decided not to plan a route, except go west since it was warmer that direction due to the NE and east winds coming inland off of Lake Michigan. After a quick stop to put a few pounds of pressure in my tires, we were off. I decided to go to Rosendale and then north to Olden Road. From there north on M (one of my faves) which consists of nice sweepers, to Pickett and then north to Eureka with a stop along the Fox River. From there we took back roads into Berlin and Princeton, then more back roads south and east from Princeton, through Markesan and home.
Before making it into Princeton we picked up four other sporties on Cty DD and when coming into town passed the local police. I said something to Kevin since it looked like we were all together and wondered if he’d be concerned about social distancing and he didn’t seem to bat an eye at us. Honestly, being on the bikes is more than 6 feet apart for the most part anyways. Some people are just getting a bit overzealous about the cops being out to get us.
By the time we were nearing home I was getting a bit chilled as the wind picked up and changed out of the north, including the sun being on my back. I felt as though it was a good first ride though, 130 miles.
Times are sure different without being able to make any planned stops for lunch or even some parks. Cannot wait until the curve is down and we can safely socialize again!
