Any biker can spend a protracted amount of time trying to explain to a non-rider (or even to a newcomer to the world of biking) the great feeling that traversing the country by motorcycle brings to them. The sense of freedom and being at one with the motorcycle is really hard to describe, it is a completely different experience to driving a car or other enclosed vehicle. The kind of feeling a ride gives depends a lot on where the biker is, when on a motorcycle you are not shut away from nature and the elements, you are able to smell the forests, fields, rivers you pass, and be able to feel the wind blow by and the sun on your back (on a good day!).
When driving through new areas by car it is often difficult to get the feel, the atmosphere of the place, no matter how hard you try. Unless you stop off you are shut away, unable to use all your natural senses and instincts to become accustomed to the change in environment. It can sometimes feel in a car that you have never really left your own space or comfort zone despite the miles you have travelled. On a motorcycle this is not the case; the sense of exploration is heightened by the changes in the weather, the changes in smells and even tastes as you travel enhances any journey.
As well as feeling at one with the surroundings, as a biker you will feel at one with your motorcycle. The fact you need to move in with the machine makes you feel like one with the machine. When first learning to ride or if you have just acquired a new model it can take some time to feel close to a bike. It is important to get acquainted with any new vehicle, by eye as well as by feel. You should look a bike over; get to know how all the parts look whilst in good working order, from motorcycle brake discs to tires and handlebars. If a bike is second hand, it may be worthwhile getting all the parts checked out by a professional, catching problems early can stop them becoming more expensive to repair or even dangerous at a later time. For example, replacing worn brake pads early can prevent them causing damage to motorcycle brake discs, which are more expensive to replace. Get to know your bike at slow speeds initially, and learn its individualities. You will soon gain in confidence.
Another factor which attracts some to biking is the sense of community. A lot of people who do not own a motorbike think that this involves a certain style of dressing, taste in music or attitude, but this is not the case for numerous bikers. For some a motorcycle is a more practical and enjoyable way of commuting or a satisfying pastime. No matter why you choose to own a bike, others who share your enthusiasm will be happy to give advice about everything – from scenic routes to motorcycle brake discs!
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