I learned to ride on a 1965 Honda S-90, which was a blast. Got my motorcycle license in 1982 by doing my road test on a Harley in February. In Michigan. Bought my first bike, a 1981 Suzuki 650E in 1982 and rode it all over Texas.
In Germany, I rode a Yamaha 450 for awhile and in 2003, I bought a Honda 919, which is a great all-round bike. These days, so-called “standard” motorcycles are called “naked.” Since they don’t have a lot of excess plastics and fairings bolted on, exposing the engine, I suppose the term “naked” has significance. I don’t worry about it that much – I just ride. I took a motorcycle safety course in Utah shortly after buying the Honda, because it’s a proven fact that defensive motorcycling can save your life.
Firearms – Yep. ‘Nuff said. Cops are great folks, but it’s a legal fact that they are not there to protect individuals. I believe in the 2nd Amendment and the right to keep and bear arms. A license to carry concealed is also part of my deal. The senseless slaughter at Virginia Tech made a believer out of me – it’s vital to protect oneself against all manner of crazies and wackos.
Pets – This is where I spend a great deal of time when I’m not otherwise working or playing music. We have two parrots and two dogs. Papagena is the matriarch. She is a Solomon Islands eclectus parrot. And far spunkier and talkative is Phoebe, a Congo African grey parrot. Our dogs include Belle, a purebred golden retriever, who is the original couch potato and 2nd fiddle to Lexie, who is the alpha dog and one of those scary-smart mutts.
