chapter 485

10/15/2017

Biker for Life

born to ride

I've taken the road less travelled often. But does that make it the road more travelled? This Route 32 from Albany down to the Catskills is one of the true motorcycle roads. Low traffic, smooth, windy, with great scenery. Here just north of Greenville the Blackhead Mountain range comes into view.

The purpose of the trip (not that I need one, but it does give a sense of purpose) was to visit the WW2 Reenactment at the Crystal Brook Resort . As I arrived I was surrounded by Nazis. Actually Colleen was playing the German field nurse.

It felt like we were right back to the '40 in Germany as we joined friends on the deck for a stein of Octoberfest.

The American GI's arrived and a battle began.

It was another beautiful fall day in the mountains for the half-tracks.

In 1961 I had bought this 1959 Wards Riverside Silver Pigeon 200cc single cylinder 50hp scooter for $500. Had a centrifical clutch automatic transmission to get 75 mpg and could get 50mph downhill. Had a blast with it driving illegally until I got a license and drove it to high school. We had a Whizzer motorbike to play with before this where I really got the bug in my blood.

My cycle now only cost me 2 social security checks and is the best one I ever had. Such a pleasure to ride after some hip setbacks and Colleen fits on it too. Made by the Polaris Company, I had met the PRESIDENT of their Motorcycle Division when he introduced their Indian brand for free demo rides at his Clifton Park shop a couple years ago. President Steve Menneto and his brother Mike also own this Wildhorse Powersports shop near here.

There is such a nice feeling of freedom going down the open road in these 2 wheeled contraptions. It's inexplicable really. It keeps you grounded and makes you a better person (there are exceptions of course).

Lake George is always a favorite ride. Warner Bay by Pilot Knob. Entering the best riding days of my life.