UTMC

I have been reading that quote "Life's journey is not to arrive at the grave safely in a well preserved body but rather to skid in sideways shouting 'Holy Shit, what a ride!'" I agree with having a ride, and a helluva good one. But, take it from a 61 year-old, don't wear ir out too fast, or you won't be able to have any ride at all when you get a bit older.
I have lived an event-filled and stressful life. When I turned 55, I started falling apart. I had to have my asshole rebuilt (pictures at 10), two hernias fixed, a bleeding ulcer, high blood pressure, migraines, and arthritic knees. In addition, and as partial explanation, I was diagnosed with ADD at age 59. That explained a lot about my life. I think MOST motorcycle people have ADD. We seem to have a need for the stimulation that risky activities can provide. Life as an ADD is intense, to say the least.
I have learned to manage stress a bit better, the meds help (ask Bandit12), and I am taking better care of my body. I don't plan on quitting riding anytime soon.
Enjoy the ride, go like moderate Hell, live long and prosper.
Bill

There's a saying in politics, "If you're explaining, you're losing." I'll lose a moment here, then, and explain myself a bit.

I'm merely commenting on the inevatibility of death. I don't advocate irresponsibility, and those who've ridden with me know I'm a particularly deliberate rider. I've no excess of testosterone or a need to knee-drag to prove a point. I just think it's unfortunate that people squander life by not occassionally daring to do something un-deliberate. "Dare I eat a peach?" has always haunted me as a metaphore for living but not being alive.

I'm in my mid thirties and realize that I've begun to miss a step or two here or there (hell, I broke my leg in May playing soccer with my daughter). I may get older, but I refuse to use that as an excuse to miss opportunities.

Hope this helps.

You got it Man! Carpe Diem.

DOF there is a rider here near me that is in his mid 50's and that is his saying as well. He lives it responsibly. And honestly with all the hardware and scaring within my body I hope to hell to be able to keep up with him when I am his age now.