Seasoned rider dilemma

[SeattleRT]

When does one decide to stop riding? Is it a close call or Accident, Sore muscles and joints? To me the scariest possible reason would be it just doesn’t do anything for me anymore I’m Bored.
This is where I am at and I don’t like it one bit. Motorcycling has defined me as an adult. I have been called a true MC Enthusiast and a Man of many bikes.
I am a 52 and have been riding since I was 14 years old. I have cycled through most major manufactures and all riding styles except one. Scooter/Class. This comes in two flavors. 2 wheel and 4 wheel versions found at the Scooter Store. No Thank you I’m not there yet.
My dilemma is I am at a turning point though which I am not sure what to do. I purchased a fully loaded 07R1200RT in February because the GW was just too heavy. The RT has showed me the other side of 100mph several times with no effort and lean angles that would scare a Jeep on a mountain. This Bike is a dream. If I sell it, I know there may be a chance I will regret it. Sure my joints ache and yes there have been close calls and 2 minor accidents. Anyone who has spent time in the saddle like me will have similar responses as well. It didn’t matter then and it still doesn’t. Boredom is my nemesis and is new to me. I would like to know if anyone has experienced similar feelings and what helped you through it?
Thanks
Seattle RT

[petevandyke]

when was the last time you took any TRAINING?

I mean real, significant training?

A friend put it best a couple years ago when he talked about driving a car, saying in essence that 99.99% of drivers only have training ONCE, when they are 16 and go through driver's ed, then they repeat the same mistakes for years.

You are stagnant, my friend, and you are plodding along, repeating the same mistakes, and repeating the same GOOD skills, but forgetting the thrills that made riding "special."

You may NEVER want to buy a sportbike, but lessons learned at a "sportbike school" will translate to leisure riding and make you a safer rider.

Look at the Kevin Schwantz school and the others that will rent you a bike,take a three-day school, buy the protective gear, make sure you pick one where you will be riding behind actual pros and learning "lines."

If that doesn't re-kindle your love and let you know without a doubt that you want to continue riding, then yes, it is time to stop. If you're bored, you'll eventually stop paying as much attention as you need to, and we don't need to talk about what happens then.


Pete

[UncleRock]

When I got bored, with the same problems complaints as you.
Sore from wrestling a 900lb wet bike through creeks, mud & snow. I got a GS, now it is like a whole new game with my first love.
100 miles on dirt tracks fording creeks etc. puts the same smile on my face and in my soul as a K-day on the LT.
The LT gets a lot less miles these days.
However since I always push the limit, I'm working on an articulating sidehack rig for my dog(that I can lock rigid when needed) with a winch:D . Winters coming and I think the projects are lined up till next summer already.
Rock

[Agent86]

I agree with the training. Take the ERC if you haven't and take it again if it's been more than a few years. It will help you understand your limitations. As much as we "seasoned" riders hate to admit it, we are just not as sharp, not as quick, not as flexible, as we once were. Knowing what your limitations are and respecting those limitations can still lead to many enjoyable motorcycle miles. As long as I can get my leg over it---pick it up when I drop it---and not be a hazard to other drivers, I'll keep riding, I enjoy the ride more than the destination and I don't mind if it takes me a little longer to get there.

[usmctpdog]

I share alot of your comments and age. Riding without stop since 1973.
Seems as soon as I got a bike "perfect" it was time to sell and I too have cycled thru many brands.

I guess I have started a new relationship with every bike to keep the boredom factor down and also acted as mentor for several riders including my S/O who is a FAST FJR rider now with an interest in getting a Dual Sport like mine. I just purchased it after selling my 05 LT.

The long days are more tiring for me then they were 20 years ago..
This last 9 day trip with 12 hr riding days proved that to me...

Getting a new, lighter bike re-sparked the bike love and I expect when I
don't want to go out to the garage to admire it and no longer feel the calling and can ride it safely I will hang up my jacket fondly.. :^)
It has been a great run since 1973

[fas]

When does one decide to stop riding? Is it a close call or Accident, Sore muscles and joints? To me the scariest possible reason would be it just doesn’t do anything for me anymore I’m Bored.
This is where I am at and I don’t like it one bit. Motorcycling has defined me as an adult. I have been called a true MC Enthusiast and a Man of many bikes.
I am a 52 and have been riding since I was 14 years old. I have cycled through most major manufactures and all riding styles except one. Scooter/Class. This comes in two flavors. 2 wheel and 4 wheel versions found at the Scooter Store. No Thank you I’m not there yet.
My dilemma is I am at a turning point though which I am not sure what to do. I purchased a fully loaded 07R1200RT in February because the GW was just too heavy. The RT has showed me the other side of 100mph several times with no effort and lean angles that would scare a Jeep on a mountain. This Bike is a dream. If I sell it, I know there may be a chance I will regret it. Sure my joints ache and yes there have been close calls and 2 minor accidents. Anyone who has spent time in the saddle like me will have similar responses as well. It didn’t matter then and it still doesn’t. Boredom is my nemesis and is new to me. I would like to know if anyone has experienced similar feelings and what helped you through it?
Thanks
Seattle RT

Seattle RT,

Some day I will be asking the same question....:think:

At 61, I have no desire to quit. I swim three times a week to stay in shape. Like you, I sold my heavy bike (LT) and got a lighter, faster bike (GT). I ride to work in the city [Cleveland, OH, home of the Indians who just beat the over paid Yankees in the playoffs] daily, unless the snow is falling or the wind off Lake Erie is out of control. SO and I ride to gardens and hike on the weekends. We rode to Columbus last weekend to visit our recent MBA graduate "baby." That was over 6 hours of saddle time with temperatures in the 80's. We love it. We share an iPod and love adding music to our riding pleasure. Our fun is riding mixed with family visits, great food, great gardens and nature. It is not just riding. Hope this helps. SO and I have been riding together since 1971 and we can not quit yet. If I detect a lack of ability to focus, then I will sell the bike and jump into another Porsche. Got my eye on a Boxster S.

If your desire is waning, park it for a while. If after 30 days of abstinance you don't miss it, maybe you should sell it and find another fun thing to do.

I want to add to Pete's suggestion. I am a graduate of several race schools, Bondurant, Skip Barber, Track Time.... I have been blessed with the ability to drive on Fuji, Donnington, Nurburgring, and most tracks in the USA and Canada. These racing schools help your focus, your mental strategy, and they increase your enjoyment of the "art of safe speed." They heighten your ability to get into the experience of driving at speed. The ability to have improved vision all around you and to improve your sense of well being AT SPEED is crucial to enjoyment. If it all is happening too fast for you on 2 wheels, maybe it is time to move to four wheels only. Riding is joyful for me.

:dance:

Good luck with your decision process.;)

[mjordans2000]

when was the last time you took any TRAINING?

I mean real, significant training?

A friend put it best a couple years ago when he talked about driving a car, saying in essence that 99.99% of drivers only have training ONCE, when they are 16 and go through driver's ed, then they repeat the same mistakes for years.

You are stagnant, my friend, and you are plodding along, repeating the same mistakes, and repeating the same GOOD skills, but forgetting the thrills that made riding "special."

You may NEVER want to buy a sportbike, but lessons learned at a "sportbike school" will translate to leisure riding and make you a safer rider.

Look at the Kevin Schwantz school and the others that will rent you a bike,take a three-day school, buy the protective gear, make sure you pick one where you will be riding behind actual pros and learning "lines."

If that doesn't re-kindle your love and let you know without a doubt that you want to continue riding, then yes, it is time to stop. If you're bored, you'll eventually stop paying as much attention as you need to, and we don't need to talk about what happens then.


Pete
I agree with raining. It doesn't have to be a sport bike school although that would be a nice change. Reg Pridemore's 'Class' is alot of fun and can dramatically increase your skills in a single session. For me it made riding a new and fresh experience. There are also classes specifically for our large machines. If that doesn't do it for you I would simply take a break from riding but keep your bike for now. The desire usually comes back. I took a break many years ago which lasted until I tried my brother in laws new bike. In less than two weeks my bike was back on the road.

[scottydawg]

Time to try a few track days...

[K1200LTryder]

Park it for a while and forget about it. Then one day you will be driving down the road in your cage, the weather will be great, the road will be perfect, and you will say to yourself " why the hell am I in this car ?"

Then you will go home and rediscover. Not to worry, it happens to all of us, IMHO.

[messenger13]

Last year I bought a new GT and put 22K miles on it in a very short time (for me, anyway). But since this summer, I haven't put 2K miles on it. Why? I don't know. LIFE...I guess. But that's OK. I go through seasons. Right now, I'm doing a lot of 4-wheeling with my son. Having a blast, getting REALLY muddy and dirty. Just like I'm a teenager again. ;) Soon the snow will be flying here in northeast Ohio, and I'll be pining for a nice, long ride on the GT again. So life goes. Next Spring I'll be planning my next LONG ride(s) on the GT and so it goes. These are the cycles of life. (No pun intended.)

I've always said, If I'm not having fun, I ain't doing it. Not for very long anyway. There are too many things in life that aren't fun that we "have" to do. If riding's not fun for you currently, take a break from it. Surely you have other hobbies that you've put on the back-burner while riding. No? It may be time to revisit one of them. ;)

[K1200LTryder]

Last year I bought a new GT and put 22K miles on it in a very short time (for me, anyway). But since this summer, I haven't put 2K miles on it. Why? I don't know. LIFE...I guess. But that's OK. I go through seasons. Right now, I'm doing a lot of 4-wheeling with my son. Having a blast, getting REALLY muddy and dirty. Just like I'm a teenager again. ;) Soon the snow will be flying here in northeast Ohio, and I'll be pining for a nice, long ride on the GT again. So life goes. Next Spring I'll be planning my next LONG ride(s) on the GT and so it goes. These are the cycles of life. (No pun intended.)

I've always said, If I'm not having fun, I ain't doing it. Not for very long anyway. There are too many things in life that aren't fun that we "have" to do. If riding's not fun for you currently, take a break from it. Surely you have other hobbies that you've put on the back-burner while riding. No? It may be time to revisit one of them. ;)


Major ditto's on that one.

If you think worrying about FD failures and slipping clutches are getting to you, try keeping a boat running up to snuff for offshore fishing. Let alone staying on top of salt water corrosion, the fuel price at the marina is $3.75 a gallon. With no less than two 275hp engines and a 220 gallon fuel tank ( 1.5 MPG on GPS), storage fee's etc...

The LT is looking REAL FINE for a hobby !

LOL

[motorman587]

Isn't it, you get old when you stop riding not stop riding cause you are old. :)

[mjac]

http://www.bmwmoa.org/features/queenie.htm

[bemmerbiker]

When does one decide to stop riding? Is it a close call or Accident, Sore muscles and joints? To me the scariest possible reason would be it just doesn’t do anything for me anymore I’m Bored.
This is where I am at and I don’t like it one bit. Motorcycling has defined me as an adult. I have been called a true MC Enthusiast and a Man of many bikes.
I am a 52 and have been riding since I was 14 years old. I have cycled through most major manufactures and all riding styles except one. Scooter/Class. This comes in two flavors. 2 wheel and 4 wheel versions found at the Scooter Store. No Thank you I’m not there yet.
My dilemma is I am at a turning point though which I am not sure what to do. I purchased a fully loaded 07R1200RT in February because the GW was just too heavy. The RT has showed me the other side of 100mph several times with no effort and lean angles that would scare a Jeep on a mountain. This Bike is a dream. If I sell it, I know there may be a chance I will regret it. Sure my joints ache and yes there have been close calls and 2 minor accidents. Anyone who has spent time in the saddle like me will have similar responses as well. It didn’t matter then and it still doesn’t. Boredom is my nemesis and is new to me. I would like to know if anyone has experienced similar feelings and what helped you through it?
Thanks
Seattle RT

Sounds like me talking to my self. The big difference is at 68 years young an riding since 1956, it make me mad no to be riding as much as I would like to.
I am about to talk to the Doc about knee replacement in late Dec. or early Jan.. This should make riding better for the ride to wy nest year for the BMWMOA Rally.

Keep thing that if I sell the bike what will I do in place of riding.

Let us know when you have it all worked out.

[SeattleRT]

All
Thanks for the great responses. It seems everyone each has contributed a resolution to this dilemma of mine. I am going to park it for a few weeks or so and enroll in another ERC. I used to do it every three years. Time to reinvest in myself once again.
Thank you all and hope to see you on the road soon.
Sincerely
SeattleRT aka Pete

[axamax]

I am currently unable to ride. I started riding in the seventies and have got through around 53 bikes and 650,000 miles. Following an accident back in July 2006 I was unable to ride for around 8 months. Just as I was getting ready to get back to riding, I lost my licence for 12 months (speeding). Not being able to ride, especially following the accident when I need to be getting my bottle back, leaves me very stiff at times and in pain. Riding a bike gives you gentle exercise and helps with your mobility. Before I get back on the road, I think I'm going to have to start going to a gym to get mobile again.
Keep riding You'll miss it when you stop. Try something different like dirt-riding or even a different type of bike may help.

[brianbeemer]

I did an advanced riding day and discovered that I really don't have to ride at the limits all the time because I enjoy riding at my(our) own pace, giving me time to enjoy the scenery, the smells of the countryside etc. However, I do find some riding really boring, too.

We've been over to France on the bike so many time now that the first 300 miles are sheer boredom and to be covered as quickly as possible. On the other hand, getting on the bike to ride 3 miles to the shops at home can be really pleasant on a sunny afternoon...

I tend to agree with the response that said park the bike up for a while. I've had to do that during New England winters and boy does the oil start running in your blood once spring arrives, all the snow and ice has gone, and the bike gets its first wash'n'wax and spring service and is sitting there gleaming ready to go. :) :) :)

[rando]

I find myself in a similar situation, yet different. I love motorcycling. But, I find myself with a newborn, 2 other kids that do ride with me, and a wife. As big as an LT is, you can still only carry one other person on it, without going sidecar. So I rarely get to ride and can't enjoy the bike with the family. So it's kinda boring to ride to work once in a while. BUT, the bike is paid for and at some point, we'll get to ride again. So I'm going to keep it "ready" and ride when I can and feel like it. It's almost a hassle to gear up just to ride the 5 miles to work. No time to go anywhere and too much responsibility at home to take off on a whim.

Hang in there, the desire may come back, or you may decide you;ve had enough.

It's okay, people change.

Randy

[Wolfgang]

Here is something we do now occasionally and plan to do a lot more as retirement nears (I am 61 now):

Get a motorhome (a small used one is not that expensive) and tow the bike to scenic out of the way place and enjoy the rides. It eliminates the long boring interstate rides to get to the good stuff. As a bonus we have found that the camaraderie on most campgrounds is similar to most rider groups. And if you are mechanically inclined...a motorhome is a never ending challenge :) :(

Like many here, I used to make constant fun of people that tow their bikes, I have been converted.

[Woolly]

Pete, I've made it to over 50 years old, but I still don't know what I'm gonna do when I grow up - till I then, I'll use my bikes to try to help me find out.

[byke33]

Happened to me with Scuba Diving years ago....had a scare. threw the gear in the garge and didn't dive for 3 years. With the kids and the cost and hassle...I just gave it up. Then on vacation in Cancun I did a quick resort dive and fell in love again.

With motorcycling, I wonder if I will get tired of it. My advice is to get a little dirtbike and put around on some trails...look into an inexspensive sidecar...try some new types of riding and see if you don't get the rush all over again.

Ron

[dmatson]

You live in a great area for dual-sporting and dirt riding if you haven't tried that then go for it. At 58 I am a lot more sore than I was at a young 50 and after a day in the dirt (especially with all the young guys I ride with) I still love it. Maybe just get a vintage bike and restore it. You'll snap out of it soon!

[sask]

I have taken to combining trips with a great event such as fishing or a grand prix race. The buzz of the event seems to make the ride lust that much more interesting.

[tmgs]

When does one decide to stop riding? Is it a close call or Accident, Sore muscles and joints? To me the scariest possible reason would be it just doesn’t do anything for me anymore I’m Bored.
This is where I am at and I don’t like it one bit. Motorcycling has defined me as an adult. I have been called a true MC Enthusiast and a Man of many bikes.
I am a 52 and have been riding since I was 14 years old. I have cycled through most major manufactures and all riding styles except one. Scooter/Class. This comes in two flavors. 2 wheel and 4 wheel versions found at the Scooter Store. No Thank you I’m not there yet.
My dilemma is I am at a turning point though which I am not sure what to do. I purchased a fully loaded 07R1200RT in February because the GW was just too heavy. The RT has showed me the other side of 100mph several times with no effort and lean angles that would scare a Jeep on a mountain. This Bike is a dream. If I sell it, I know there may be a chance I will regret it. Sure my joints ache and yes there have been close calls and 2 minor accidents. Anyone who has spent time in the saddle like me will have similar responses as well. It didn’t matter then and it still doesn’t. Boredom is my nemesis and is new to me. I would like to know if anyone has experienced similar feelings and what helped you through it?
Thanks
Seattle RT


Thoughts similar to yours have been crossing my mind as well, and I added a GSA to my garage yet still therre is something missing lately.

Maybe all the talk about dependability has been taking away from the fun of riding?

Maybe it's all the broken body pieces that are hurting worse by the day?, (one really bad accident in my days)

Maybe I'm now starting to realize I'm not 24 anymore?

Heck I don't know, but like you something is missing.


Heck maybe it's time just to get a KLR throw it in a truck and head to Alaska for a few weeks??

dang if I know

[yechave]

Started riding about 1972. Stopped riding after one to many close calls that would have been the end, one way or another, that was 18 years ago.

I really had no interest since, whatsoever, didn't miss it. 1995, started having medical issues no one could figure out. Diagnosed with cancer in 99, had back and extensive neck surgery, mercury poisoning with severe memory loss, had to stop driving, jaw bone infection just diagnosed in June 07 from wisdom teeth surgery in 74 ($5k for the first of three surgeries).......and thought it was time to check out.

Got a cremation contract a couple of months ago, $18/mo. Rented a Harley for three days. While not the bike I would want, it got us to look at used bikes at BMW shop. Ended up buying a 99 R1100RT, owned for a month, which we just finished a 4 day road trip. My SO loved it (first time on a bike), we traded that on the way home for a 99 K1200LT.

That gave me the desire to live a bit longer. We absolutely LOVE this bike!

Seemingly too large a bike, I would never have looked at it, had it not been that the RT loaded, two up was the same weight. It was much easier for the passenger, lots more room, heated seat, and on and on. All around a much better bike for us.

So, for me the answer was, finding a cure for my medical issues, (which did not come from any US medical establishment, which specializes in disease management). See: drclark.com "The Cure For All Diseases" book and DVD.

We both took the basic safety course before we left, she got her license and loves riding a small bike for now.

Got the best safety gear we could afford, and ordered the training videos from Motorman, can't wait to see those.

Bike is in the shop this week for new shoes and other repairs. Hope to get a few miles on before it snows, and really looking forward to traveling with it next year.

It was time to find something to live for, or give up and check out. Even after working out at the gym for two months to get ready for the rental, there was not a lot I was physically able to do anymore. So far, the bike has not been too much of a problem, once I understood some of the safety/user issues I needed to know about them.

Interestingly, the cost to pay the fiddler was under $1300. We both took five year contracts for the cremation package. We kick the bucket before the policy is paid in full, the insurance company pays it off.

This is a new lease on life for me!

[rattler50]

I'll stop riding when I forget where I parked my bike or I run out of money because I'm riding around and forgot where I lived.................

[gpolakow]

I'm 63 and still love riding, but I came back to it after a 20 year hiatus. I think you have to keep in shape to avoid the aches and pains, yoga, tai chi, weights, aerobics, that kind of stuff. As for the boredom, I agree with whoever said park it for awhile. You might find after a month of so of not riding the first ride you take will get you back into it big time. If not, you'll know it's time to quit.

[tmgs]

Major ditto's on that one.

If you think worrying about FD failures and slipping clutches are getting to you, try keeping a boat running up to snuff for offshore fishing. Let alone staying on top of salt water corrosion, the fuel price at the marina is $3.75 a gallon. With no less than two 275hp engines and a 220 gallon fuel tank ( 1.5 MPG on GPS), storage fee's etc...

The LT is looking REAL FINE for a hobby !

LOL

Hobby? motorcycling is a hobby?

thats what I'm doing wrong, I thought it was a way of life
<g>

[BruceHarrisJr]

Participating in an Iron Butt ride; www.ironbutt.com
For me, the preparation and anticipation of an Iron Butt ride each year keeps me enthused about riding. The competitive nature of Iron Butt rides brings out the best in me. At fifty-five years of age I spend three nights a week at our local YMCA preparing my body and mind for the next 'big' ride. Hope this helps stimulate your interest in long distance riding.

[hopz]

I will be 64 in about 2 weeks. I started riding in 1957. I do not see an end point at this time. I sort of think there will be, but not yet... too many places to go and things to see.

Started thinking and planning for an Alaska ride a few weeks ago... after that, maybe something a bit adventurous... don't know what yet.

My answer for you is Advil...

Take one before the long ride and one at lunch... seems to work for me.

If you do decide to sell... it wont be long before you are back.

Ride Safe.

[BrianV]

I am 59. I rode EVERYTHING as a kid (15 - 22) - desert racing, motocross on a CZ, enduros on a Hodaka and an Ossa. You get the picture. I stopped riding once the kids came along in the early 70s, and got back on about 6 years ago, when the last one got out of college. I bought a Harley Dyna Super Glide Sport, wrenched and tuned it to the gills, and loved every minute on it - until I rented a RT for a 3 day ride in Arizona last May. I discovered the HD had lulled me into being a lazy rider. ALL my real road skills had gone south. Came home to Texas, sold the HD, and now I'm trying to refresh my wife's memory that I sold the HD to get a BMW, not to quit riding. "Do what ever you want to" doesn't really mean that, as we all know.

All this as a background to a single comment -

If you feel bored - QUIT. If you are bored enough to become distracted, you will end up a statistic. If you love to ride, you will always be paying attention, and will stand a much better chance of getting home again.

Just my .02

-Brian

[tmgs]

Participating in an Iron Butt ride; www.ironbutt.com
For me, the preparation and anticipation of an Iron Butt ride each year keeps me enthused about riding. The competitive nature of Iron Butt rides brings out the best in me. At fifty-five years of age I spend three nights a week at our local YMCA preparing my body and mind for the next 'big' ride. Hope this helps stimulate your interest in long distance riding.


now that you mention it, I sit here with I think three or four sets of rides I need to send in for certification. I have not been in a hurry to send these in, particularly seeing how i know they have been backed up pretty bad for a while now. maybe I should get off my arse and get them in

Tom

[Grunk]

Go test ride a Triumph Rocket III. I bought a standard model last fall and can't stay off of it. THE TORQUE IS ADDICTIVE AND INTOXICATING. You have been warned.

Honestly/seriously, I was bored like you and this bike is the more fun than the last eight bikes I've owned combined. You'll be shocked at how manageable and fun this bike is.

And if you're looking for comfort the Touring model that came out this year has very good marks in that department.

[dsidler]

Sounds like me talking to my self. The big difference is at 68 years young an riding since 1956, it make me mad no to be riding as much as I would like to.
I am about to talk to the Doc about knee replacement in late Dec. or early Jan.. This should make riding better for the ride to wy nest year for the BMWMOA Rally.

Keep thing that if I sell the bike what will I do in place of riding.

Let us know when you have it all worked out.

I am giving up riding at the age of 77 after 36 years of riding motorcycles. Started with dirt bikes, have had Suzuki's, Hondas, Harley's, Gold Wing's, but mostly BMW's. Had a 2002 LT sold with 70000 on it, and currently have an 06 with 30000 on it. I just got back from a 1600 mile trip to the Ozarks and had a great time and good weather, but alas it is the last one for me. The bike is sold so there is no turning back now.

But get this.... to replace it, I found a 1998 BMW Z3 Roadster convertible with 12768 miles on it. It is sitting in the garage as we speak. On a recent trip to Kansas City it started raining... pulled over on the shoulder and punched a button and voila... nice and dry, turned the A/C on, and continued on my way. No rain gear, no helmets, no high priced riding gear, warm when it's cold, cool when it's hot, and dry when it's wet. This can't be all bad. It has a big six, 5 speed stick, and is a blast to drive. I think I'm going to get along just fine. I'll still be at a few of my favorite BMW rallies, just in 4 wheels instead of two, but still riding in style.

[ArthurKnowles]

I've ridden two wheel vehicles since I was 16 and bought my first moped in Germany. I've had periods where I did not own a motorcycle though and made due with other transportation methods. But motorcyling has always given me a thrill. When I did not have one in the garage, I bought magazines (not always, but frequently enough) just to see what was happening in the industry.

When I was 18, I thought the Kawasaki Concours was my dream machine. It was a sport tourer with the key word being sport. About 25 years later, my wife's prayers were answered and I found one. A 2002 model with only 1500 miles on it. I started riding again and enjoyed it, but I needed to do some modifications to the motorcycle to make it more comfoprtable. But no matter where I went with it, it still hurt to much to ride, so it got ridden less and less. Eventually I sold it to another Concours rider and he's put more miles on it in a couple of month then I did in the couple of years i owned it.

I purchased a used RT & LT. This combination works well for me. Both have better ergonomics, but even so I need some back support. Got that taken care of though, and I still love to ride. Doesn't matter if it is twisties, highway, or what not. I just like to ride, turn on the tunes, and enjoy the feeling. Anytime I get off the motorcycle I have an adrenilin rush and a big grin on my face.

Like any hobby, sport, life choice, etc. though there are always periods where you make alternate choices. I also fly radio control planes and helicoptors. But haven't done so for almost a year. Before I got married I rode, but I sold that motorcycle to a friend as it wasn't the ride I wanted (Honda Magna with a 100 mph range - can you believe it - 100 miles!). There is nothing wrong with taking a break from riding. Or even giving it up completely.

Surviving life is just waking up every day and going through the motions. Living is about enjoying every momemnt you have. I'd rather live life than survive it if you know what I mean. If you are not happy, find somehting else that will do it for you.

I think the idea of a dual-sport motorcycle might fit the bill for you, but there are also so many other things to do that you should definitely give yourself the once over and decide just what you want to accomplish. I've had a few opportunities to reflect on my life and make those decisions. Heart attack (minor and fully recovered) at 38 & kidney failure at 42. I've had a kidney transplant (3/14/08) and am moving on doing the things my health had prevented me from doing previously, but having a wake up call is what motivated me to re3consider my life and what I wanted out of it. Which lead to the more serious persuit of marriage, family, etc. And I've been fortunate there as my wife has been behind me as well (she likes to ride too).

Life is just to short not to appreciate all it has to offer. Don't get stuck in a rut just because you've done the same thing all your life.

[STARFIGHTER]

Motorman 587 has the answer. I'm 65.........sixty F&^%n five !
Bored is not something that happens to you, it's something you do in your head.
Suck it up. As for aches and pains, that's life. You've got to be tough to be old. Every morning I have to swallow the pills so I can bend my joints without pain. Oh, well ! But Friday I start a 3,000 mile ride, and in the middle of it maybe a little white water kayaking.
Take a look at something new......maybe the Iron Butt National Parks tour....
It's not just about you and the bike, it's the great people out there and the places you haven't seen yet. It's the drive thru olive where the cashier "really doesn't like olives," or the "official center of the world" in Felicity, California where their recorded history of the world starts with the invention of the altimeter.
BUT.....do not just sit there and get old....cause you will.

[Mike_H]

I'm 59 years old. At some point in my 50s, everything began to hurt. It's a normal thing.

In addition to keeping my riding skills sharp, I make it a practice to keep fit by exercising every (or nearly every) day. No marathons, but I do 30 minutes on an elliptical trainer (easy on the joints) followed by 40 minutes of resistance training (weights, push-ups, crunches, pull-ups). The resistance training is low-weight, high-rep exercises, which builds strength but doesn't damage tendons and joints.

Controlling your weight is also very important.

I don't plan to stop riding until there is no other choice. I met a group of riders in their 70s and 80s at a 'bike night' event last week at a local restaurant. They had all given up motorcycles because of the bike's weight, and had all purchased scooters like Burgmans, Silver Wings, Piaggio MP3s, etc. so they could continue riding.

That's what I'll do. When I can't handle the weight of a motorcycle, I'll buy a scooter. But I won't stop riding!

[SeattleRT]

Well I thought I would post an update as to what I have done to answer the “Seasoned rider dilemma”. I can finally put this topic to rest.
I want to thank everyone who shared their own life experiences to help others in need. My hat is off to all of you and will pay it forward when the opportunity arises. This all started because I woke up one day and realized I had achieved just about every goal I set for my self. I had no future goals to look forward to. I took these steps to refocus
1-I stopped riding for 30 days.
2-I did all the usual midlife medical tests to make sure all is well.
3-Talked with the wife to make sure we were still in sync then discussed what our new goals will be.
My reason for riding has changed to something that makes more sense to me and to my wife now. She sold her bike and wants to be my passenger.
We ride only for the NOW instead of the past or the future.
We both enjoy riding once again and stop more frequently and mingle with the locals when ever possible. One day we were out exploring the Washington/Oregon coast and the next day we loaded the bike and headed south. We drove 10 miles and saw this small motel right on the beach with someone flying a kite. We both said that’s it for the day, checked in to the motel found a kite store and spent all day relaxing and flying a kite. We make it a point now to not plan a vacation but make it up as we go.
We also picked up comfort bicycling as a new form of exercising, and turned up the comfort notch on the RT. Being 6’6” I did the Seat- back 2” and Up 2” Both Seats are considerably wider as well 17”wide front and back. Handle bar risers and peg lowering by Suburban. I added the Eagle Talon Highway pegs from Hawks products that really let my legs stretch.
Motorcycling has always been in my blood and looks like it will continue that way. I may look to a different bike in the future but cant really say as that is not the NOW I live in.
Take care and thank you all who replied. You each had a part in this story.

Seattle RT / mcenthusiast
Pete

[fas]

Well I thought I would post an update as to what I have done to answer the “Seasoned rider dilemma”. I can finally put this topic to rest.
I want to thank everyone who shared their own life experiences to help others in need. My hat is off to all of you and will pay it forward when the opportunity arises. This all started because I woke up one day and realized I had achieved just about every goal I set for my self. I had no future goals to look forward to. I took these steps to refocus
1-I stopped riding for 30 days.
2-I did all the usual midlife medical tests to make sure all is well.
3-Talked with the wife to make sure we were still in sync then discussed what our new goals will be.
My reason for riding has changed to something that makes more sense to me and to my wife now. She sold her bike and wants to be my passenger.
We ride only for the NOW instead of the past or the future.
We both enjoy riding once again and stop more frequently and mingle with the locals when ever possible. One day we were out exploring the Washington/Oregon coast and the next day we loaded the bike and headed south. We drove 10 miles and saw this small motel right on the beach with someone flying a kite. We both said that’s it for the day, checked in to the motel found a kite store and spent all day relaxing and flying a kite. We make it a point now to not plan a vacation but make it up as we go.
We also picked up comfort bicycling as a new form of exercising, and turned up the comfort notch on the RT. Being 6’6” I did the Seat- back 2” and Up 2” Both Seats are considerably wider as well 17”wide front and back. Handle bar risers and peg lowering by Suburban. I added the Eagle Talon Highway pegs from Hawks products that really let my legs stretch.
Motorcycling has always been in my blood and looks like it will continue that way. I may look to a different bike in the future but cant really say as that is not the NOW I live in.
Take care and thank you all who replied. You each had a part in this story.

Seattle RT / mcenthusiast
Pete

Pete,

Good show. My 06 GT has one foot out the door. A man in WI sent his deposit check. I plan to ride the 07 Super Duke as SO has given up (hip issues). We all solve our life challenges in differing ways. We ride together in the Boxster (side by side rather than tandem;)).

[STARFIGHTER]

Good on Ya' Pete !!!!
Stop down in Eugene some time on your way thru, we have an extra bedroom.
For what it's worth, Karen ahd I have four rules for "on the road."
1. No slabs
2. No chain restaurants
3. No chain motels
4. when one of us wants to stop and see/do something, it's a done deal.....

[ldbikin]

Well I thought I would post an update as to what I have done to answer the “Seasoned rider dilemma”. I can finally put this topic to rest.
I want to thank everyone who shared their own life experiences to help others in need. My hat is off to all of you and will pay it forward when the opportunity arises. This all started because I woke up one day and realized I had achieved just about every goal I set for my self. I had no future goals to look forward to. I took these steps to refocus
1-I stopped riding for 30 days.
2-I did all the usual midlife medical tests to make sure all is well.
3-Talked with the wife to make sure we were still in sync then discussed what our new goals will be.
My reason for riding has changed to something that makes more sense to me and to my wife now. She sold her bike and wants to be my passenger.
We ride only for the NOW instead of the past or the future.
We both enjoy riding once again and stop more frequently and mingle with the locals when ever possible. One day we were out exploring the Washington/Oregon coast and the next day we loaded the bike and headed south. We drove 10 miles and saw this small motel right on the beach with someone flying a kite. We both said that’s it for the day, checked in to the motel found a kite store and spent all day relaxing and flying a kite. We make it a point now to not plan a vacation but make it up as we go.
We also picked up comfort bicycling as a new form of exercising, and turned up the comfort notch on the RT. Being 6’6” I did the Seat- back 2” and Up 2” Both Seats are considerably wider as well 17”wide front and back. Handle bar risers and peg lowering by Suburban. I added the Eagle Talon Highway pegs from Hawks products that really let my legs stretch.
Motorcycling has always been in my blood and looks like it will continue that way. I may look to a different bike in the future but cant really say as that is not the NOW I live in.
Take care and thank you all who replied. You each had a part in this story.

Seattle RT / mcenthusiast
Pete

Thats perfect, other than #2 (on my part :))....I only get sick when I go to the doctors.

I ride about 50k/year. Folks always ask "where ya going, etc"..

My standard answer is "I don't know exactly and if I change my mind, it takes all of about 2 seconds to turn the handlebars :)"

best of luck to you, middle age sure is, mmmm...interesting! :eek:

[jayjacobson]

Great thread, guys! Us "young" guys (41 next month) can learn from all the wisdom.

[justlookin]

When I got bored, with the same problems complaints as you.
Sore from wrestling a 900lb wet bike through creeks, mud & snow. I got a GS, now it is like a whole new game with my first love.
100 miles on dirt tracks fording creeks etc. puts the same smile on my face and in my soul as a K-day on the LT.
The LT gets a lot less miles these days.
However since I always push the limit, I'm working on an articulating sidehack rig for my dog(that I can lock rigid when needed) with a winch:D . Winters coming and I think the projects are lined up till next summer already.
Rock

I added a GS. I found a used one (97) for less than $4k. It does add a whole dimension to riding. 35mph on the gravel = 75 on the twisties.. :D

Just realized this thread was started last fall.. :eek:

[Deek]

............... I’m Bored.
......

Do like I do; go out and buy a new motorcycle! :D