I ride for many reasons. First of all, it's a stress release for me. Nothing beats riding home after a hard day at the office. I remove all problems from my mind prior to getting on the bike and concentrate on the tasks at hand. By the time I get home, I no longer feel that whatever was bothering me earlier in the day was worth the worry.

Secondly, I ride because I feel that the skills needed to ride are essentially a good way to keep your mind active and sharp. Since riding a motorcycle takes much more concentration and judgement than driving a car, I feel that a spirited ride in the mountains on a motorcycle keeps me mentally sharp. I just don't get that challenge with a car.

Lastly, I ride because I think riding a bike on a tour across the countryside or just commuting to the office takes much more planning and effort by me - the rider. It also separates me from all the other traffic in the parking lot. Riding a bike to the office or client site makes me a memoriable character.

I'm an all season rider and do all types of street riding. Mostly, I accumulate my mileage by doing day touring around the Tennessee/Kentucky/North Carolina area. One project I want to do during 1999 is video Deal's Gap and areas of the Smokies on my Gold Wing. I know, it must be tough, but some one must do it. :) And yes, I do ride in the Winter - so far my lowest temperature has been 14 degrees - thanks to the Gerbing jacket liner, proper layering and riding gear.

In April of 1999, I completed my MSF Instructor certification. Currently, I'm assisting in the MSF MRC:RSS ("beginner course") and will assist in the MSF Experienced Rider Courses as they come to pass.

Committed to safer motorcycle riding? You bet. I'm planning on many years of riding ahead of me. My wife now rides the Shadow and our daughter rides with me on the Wing. No, our daughter can't fall off by herself because we have her strapped to me using the High Plains Marketing Safety Harness. With this harness, there is no way she can fall off without taking my 250 lb. body with her.