Rev Up and Roll Out: Your First Motorcycle Ride of the Season!

Ah, the sweet sound of engines revving, the wind in your face, and the unmistakable thrill of freedom – it can only mean one thing: it’s time for your first motorcycle ride of the season! After months of hibernation, your trusty steed is itching to hit the open road, and you’re more than ready to answer the call of adventure. So strap on your helmet, don your riding gear, and let’s embark on a journey of fun, friendship, and two-wheeled excitement!

1. Pre-Ride Rituals: Before you kickstart(I don’t kickstart my mine!) your motorcycle and roar off into the sunset, it’s essential to perform a few pre-ride rituals to ensure a smooth and safe journey. First things first, give your bike a thorough once-over, checking tire pressure, fluid levels, and the condition of your brakes. Next, gear up like a pro with your helmet, gloves, jacket, and boots – safety first, folks! Finally, take a moment to bask in the sheer joy of being back in the saddle, ready to conquer the road once more.

2. Gathering the Crew: What’s a motorcycle ride without your trusty band of riding buddies by your side? Round up your fellow enthusiasts, dust off those leather jackets, and get ready to hit the road as a pack. Whether you’re cruising through the countryside or tearing up the city streets, everything’s better when you’re riding with friends. So fire up the group chat, set a meeting point, and get ready to make memories that’ll last a lifetime. (At 68, many of my friends, no longer ride. 🙁 )

3. Choosing the Perfect Route: With your crew assembled and your bikes prepped for action, it’s time to choose the perfect route for your first ride of the season. Whether you’re craving twisty mountain roads, scenic coastal highways, or bustling city streets, there’s a route out there with your name on it. So fire up your favorite mapping app, plot your course, and get ready to explore the world from the back of your motorcycle – the possibilities are endless!

4. Fueling Up – Both You and Your Bike: Riding a motorcycle works up quite the appetite, so be sure to fuel up both yourself and your bike before hitting the road. Swing by your favorite diner for a hearty breakfast or grab a quick snack to keep your energy levels up during the ride. And don’t forget to fill up your gas tank – running out of fuel in the middle of nowhere is a surefire way to put a damper on your day of riding fun!

5. Embracing the Joy of the Ride: As you twist the throttle and feel the wind rushing past, take a moment to truly savor the joy of the ride. Breathe in the fresh air, soak up the scenery, and let the sheer exhilaration of being on two wheels wash over you. Whether you’re a seasoned rider or a newbie just starting out, there’s nothing quite like the feeling of freedom that comes from hitting the open road on a motorcycle.

6. Stopping to Smell the Roses: Along the way, be sure to take plenty of breaks to stretch your legs, refuel, and admire the beauty of your surroundings. Whether you stumble upon a charming roadside cafe, a hidden waterfall, or a picturesque overlook, don’t be afraid to veer off course and explore the world around you. After all, the journey is just as important as the destination – so why not make the most of every moment?

7. Capturing Memories Along the Way: As you ride, be sure to capture memories of your adventure with plenty of photos and videos. Whether you’re snapping selfies with your riding crew, capturing epic drone footage of your scenic route, or filming your daring feats on the road, these memories will be cherished for years to come. Plus, they make for excellent bragging material when you’re reminiscing about your epic motorcycle adventures with friends and family.

8. Reflecting on the Journey: As the sun begins to set on your first motorcycle ride of the season, take a moment to reflect on the journey you’ve embarked upon. From the thrill of the open road to the camaraderie of riding with friends, it’s been a day filled with laughter, adventure, and unforgettable moments. And as you park your bike and hang up your helmet for the night, know that the memories you’ve made today will fuel your passion for riding for years to come.

And so, dear rider, we reach the end of our first motorcycle ride of the season – but fear not, for the road ahead is long and filled with endless possibilities. So keep your eyes on the horizon, your throttle hand steady, and your sense of adventure alive and well. After all, the best rides are yet to come – so rev up your engines, roll out with your crew, and let the journey begin.

My wife and I have ridden tens of thousands of miles. I have covered 1,000 miles in a day, ridden for 13 hours, and “poured” off my bike. Here are some rides to try.

Motorcycling on the Kancamagus

Ah, New England – a region brimming with picturesque landscapes, charming towns, and winding roads just waiting to be explored on two wheels. As a resident of this vibrant corner of the country, your options for motorcycle adventures are practically limitless. Here are a few destinations that you might consider for your first ride of the season:

1. The Berkshires, Massachusetts: Head west to the Berkshires, where rolling hills, lush forests, and quaint villages await. Take Route 2 (Watch out for the 180 in Florida, MA.), also known as the Mohawk Trail, for a scenic ride through the heart of the Berkshires, passing by historic landmarks, stunning vistas, and charming towns like North Adams and Williamstown. Be sure to stop by the Massachusetts Museum of Contemporary Art (MASS MoCA) for a dose of culture and creativity.

2. Coastal Maine: If you’re craving fresh sea air and sweeping ocean views, hop on your bike and head north to coastal Maine. Ride along Route 1, also known as the Coastal Highway, for a scenic journey past rugged coastline, quaint fishing villages, and iconic lighthouses. Stop by Portland for some delicious seafood, explore the charming streets of Camden and Rockland, and soak up the laid-back vibe of Bar Harbor and Acadia National Park. (We have ridden to Bar Harbor. Our first “long” ride was to Wells!)

3. White Mountains, New Hampshire: For a taste of alpine adventure, point your bike north towards the White Mountains of New Hampshire. Take the Kancamagus Highway, also known as “The Kanc,” for a thrilling ride through the heart of the White Mountains National Forest. Marvel at cascading waterfalls, towering peaks, and vibrant foliage (if you’re riding in the fall), and don’t forget to stop by iconic attractions like the Flume Gorge and Mount Washington. (If I was to get a ticket this would have been one of the trips!)

4. Green Mountains, Vermont: Head northwest to Vermont’s Green Mountains for a ride through some of the most scenic landscapes in New England. Take Route 100, also known as the Vermont Green Mountain Byway, for a leisurely journey past rolling farmland, picturesque villages, and dense forests. Stop by charming towns like Stowe, Waterbury, and Manchester, and treat yourself to some world-class Vermont cheese and maple syrup along the way. (I have been all around Vermont!)

5. Cape Cod, Massachusetts: If you’re in the mood for a coastal escape without venturing too far from home, point your bike towards Cape Cod. Ride along Route 6A, also known as the Old King’s Highway, for a leisurely journey through quaint seaside towns, historic landmarks, and stunning beaches. Explore the charming streets of Provincetown, take a ferry to Martha’s Vineyard or Nantucket, and indulge in fresh seafood and saltwater taffy to your heart’s content. (This is an amazing tour!)

No matter which destination you choose for your first ride of the season, one thing’s for sure – you’re in for an unforgettable adventure filled with scenic beauty, charming towns, and the thrill of the open road. So fire up your bike, hit the pavement, and let the journey begin!

Beautiful motorcycle rides to add to this list in North Carolina and Tennesee.