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Posted April 22, 2005
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Commutes to envyTwisty roads I was going to tell you all about my 14.5-mile commute every day. I was going to tell you how only the last mile before work has stop lights and how after I leave the stop lights on the way home, it's all rural two-lane in good repair, or about the mix of curves and straights complete with numerous passing zones. But after I thought about it, I decided just to tell you about my soon-to-be-replaced rear tire that is down to the wear bands on both sides and still has plenty of tread in the middle. Ride safe. Ben Groover The Laurel Highlands Until about a year and a half ago, I had a typical commute where I spent a mind-numbing 45 minutes watching taillights from behind the wheel of my Dodge Ram. Then, due to some life-changing events that I won't bore you with, I found myself employed outside of the city, closer to home. I live in the southwest corner of Pennsylvania, near the first ridge of the Allegheny Mountains. Many of the roads here follow the old trails of early settlers and Native Americans who inhabited the area. These country roads are blessed with elevation changes, sweeping turns, tight curves, and short straights. My commute time ranges from 20 to 40 minutes, depending on my mood. There are days when I take the shortest route, and days I prolong my ride.
I work near Ohiopyle State Park, which is known for its excellent whitewater rafting, hiking and biking trails, and mountain scenery with breathtaking views. People travel great distances to experience what I take in each day. No matter the season, the backdrop of my journey is somewhat picturesque. Being a four-season rider, I surround myself with the green of spring and summer, the red, orange, and yellow of fall, and even the white of winter. I must admit, riding a motorcycle to work is a true mood elevator. My time spent at the job is much more agreeable when it is bookended by a bike ride. I have always wanted to be one of the guys I read about, a lucky stiff who gets to ride a motorcycle to work each day. Now I'm that guy. As a side note, since I have started this job, five other guys have bought motorcycles and occasionally commute to work. Dell Hickle The Colorado Rockies I had the privilege growing up in central Colorado just 24 miles from the Continental Divide. Since the small town I grew up in did not provide many jobs, I moved to the Woodland Park, Colorado area to stay employed, without moving too far from home. During the summer and often late into October, I am able to ride my Harley-Davidson Electra Glide Ultra to work. The first 18 miles of my 30-mile commute is the curvy route of State Highway 24 between Woodland Park and Colorado Springs, skirting the base of Pikes Peak. This is a four-lane, so I cruise worry-free except for the deer, skunks, racoons and, once in a great while, a bear. I set the cruise control so I do not have to worry about the speed traps and can just enjoy the ride. The rest of the trip is through the Colorado Springs area and one does have to pay attention. I am very lucky to ride every day in an area many people come from all over the nation to ride in. If you do ride the Rockies and come across a black Harley going to work or back to home, just wave then enjoy the view I see every work day. Michael Stotler Continued: 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | Next>> © 2005, American Motorcyclist Association |
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