Monkey on a Motorcycle

A weeklong motorcycle adventure with a 16-year-old and her dad.

High-Fiving each other after a series of great curves and bends

Story and Photos by Kendal Foreman and Jim Foreman

It was our second day traveling.  We had just finished a hearty breakfast in Silverton,  Colorado and were traveling north on what my dad explained was the “Million-Dollar Highway.”

After a series of impressive turns and a downhill zig-zag along the canyon wall, my Dad turns into an overlook.  Checking with Dad that it’s OK to dismount I started taking in the view of the canyon and the river below.  There was a faint rumbling sound that could be heard in the distance.

Walking toward a steel bridge, it finally caught me in wonder.  In front of my eyes was a real plume of water cascading down about 100 feet into a pool at the bottom.  All of a sudden, it became apparent why my dad stopped here.  It took several minutes of staring and amazement before joining my Dad further along the overlook. 

Right then, the motorcycle adventure became alive and vibrant in my mind.

Only two years ago, on Father’s Day, was my first motorcycle ride.  Though Dad had asked me occasionally if I’d like to ride with him, I always refused.  A big part of that was due to the warning and concern my mom expressed.  She was not comfortable with me riding on the bike.  Secondarily, there may have been some fear there, too.  My Father only said, “One day, when you’re ready.”

First time riding a motorcycle - Father's Day 2015

 That day did finally arrive.  Like before, Dad asked if I’d like to join him on a ride.  The difference was that I decided to say, “Yes!”  With a pleasant look of surprise, Dad fitted a helmet, jacket, gloves and knee armor for my jeans and we went on a short but exciting ride.  At the end of the ride, The only thing I could remember was asking when we could do this again.  We were both excited.

Of course, Dad sent photos of me in my motorcycle gear with the bike to my mom to let her know.  Later, that exploded into an ugly but short-lived situation between my Mom and Dad.  Dad took it all in stride and told me how proud he was of me and that we could do it again, as soon as I wanted.

Several days after my first ride, the anger from Mom disappeared, and I even got dropped off several times on the motorcycle with nothing but a smile and a wave to Dad as he said, “Have a great time!”
Since that first ride, I’ve traveled up Pacific Coast Highway and through Baja California from Los Cabos to Orange County, CA. 

Being 16, I find that any average day can easily begin to overshadow the adventurous spirit. The foundation of curiosity discovered outdoors is lessened more and more as the routine of life solidifies. Exploration and wonder are sacrificed for an undetermined obligation or countless hours mindlessly spent on the computer. 

A couple of weeks ago, my Dad asked if I’d be interested in joining him at the Top O’ the Rockies Rally in Colorado. 

I was tentative to the idea.  It sounded fun, but I was used to lounging at home during the few remaining weeks of summer vacation.  I finally agreed and began to pack and prepare the day before we left.  One thing my Dad has taught me is to pack light.  It was a surprise that I had some extra room in my bag for some luxuries like drawing paper and some art supplies.

We began early Wednesday morning by loading my Dad’s new BMW S 1000 XR.  It was the first time I was going to be riding on this bike.  My previous journeys were on the BMW K 1200 RS. 
Packed and loaded we began our two-wheeled adventure from Tucson, Arizona.  Riding across the Mojave and Sonoran deserts on the freeway are not fun.  We trucked the bike to Tucson from Orange County, CA.

Along the way, the journey began to show off its stellar portfolio. There are stair-like slopes configured, as if by design, and patches of trees and greenery placed as if to appeal to a particular aesthetic.   There are landscapes that appear impossible to exist, only a few hundred miles away.

Salt River Canyon

Nearing 150 miles in, the road enticed us through layered rock canyons that appeared flattened by a massive rolling pin. The clouds overhead filled the sky like scales to a fish.  In those times, the imagination is let off its leash and encouraged to stretch its legs. Suddenly it’s as if the sky is a theater stage and the clouds and mountains are the performers and props.

Long stretches of road are perfect for achieving a state of Zen.  Zen to me is the admiration and appreciation formed from being present in one’s place and time. It’s appreciation for the mountains, the clouds, the lingering cattle, and grazing horses. It’s the soul of everything we ignore or glaze over in daily life that is suddenly given weight and importance. 

To make the long trip more enjoyable, my Dad outfitted my helmet with a Sena Bluetooth system.  This enabled us to talk to each other and for me to listen to my music off of my iPhone.  With a percussive tap to my knee armor, a sway of my shoulders, and a slight bounce to my helmet, the party was just getting started.

Often, I’d reach out my arms to catch a breeze in my arm vents, which then turns into a game I make for myself. One notion that you learn is how the angle of your fingers affects the way your hand lifts or dives while in motion. Motorcycle riders must make exceptional pilots.

Upon first entering Colorado from New Mexico, the wind greeted the arrival with a purple sundown and a wonderful smell of rain with trees.   A light drizzle began to fall.  I noticed Dad take a more deliberate and cautious pace as we traveled the last 20 miles in rainy darkness.  Dad pulled behind a car and seemed to let it lead the way.  He later explained that was because the car has better lighting and if any deer or other animals come onto the roadway, he’d have the additional reaction of the car driver ahead to react safely.

Our first night in Colorado, we spent in Durango. Our older little hotel smelled a bit musty. As we unpacked, there was a faint drift of marijuana in the air.  In school, I had heard stories about the pot appetite here.

Dinner at Durango Brewing Co.

We found Durango Brewing Company was still open after 9 pm, so we enjoyed a great light dinner.

The next morning we hustled to make Paonia, CO by noon so Dad could prepare for his 1 pm presentation about, “Riding in Europe Without Going Broke.”

We left Durango to gorgeous blue skies and wonderful weather as we continued north on the 550. 

Forests galore and beautiful mountains followed. It is proven by this passenger that one can receive a natural high just by being surrounded with enough shades of the color green.

Understandably, Colorado means 'colored' in Spanish.  That's why the welcome signs at the state line say "Welcome to Colorful Colorado."

A rush of exhilaration slapped a massive smile on my face. Endorphins must hang in the air! I inhaled a walloping mass of the breeze, knowing it’s among the freshest I’ll probably ever experience. The sweet smell will forever linger in in my mind and tease the senses.

We arrived in Silverton, a mining town that was able to preserve the rustic buildings from a time long passed. Here, this minor (not miner) had her first experience sitting at a bar, albeit with a cup of cocoa and not whiskey or tequila. Rest assured that no one cared.  It was evident there wasn’t the space to sit elsewhere.  It felt pretty good, too.

Fed and refreshed, we mounted the XR and continued north.  A quick stop at the previously mentioned waterfall brought us within minutes of Ouray, CO. 

Ouray is a charming town known for its hot springs.  It’s unlike anything I’ve seen, so far.  I hope to return and maybe spend a couple of days there.

Arrival into Paonia, CO and the Top O' the Rockies Rally

We arrived in Paonia, CO and the Top O’ the Rockies Rally at 11:30 am.  Each year, the Rally is put on by the BMW Motorcycle Club of Colorado.  Dad got right to work preparing for the presentation.  I helped in any way I could.  His presentation was exciting and made me think of my visit to London and Paris. 

Afterward, many people came up to me and said, “Hello Monkey!”  This surprised me because that’s my Dad’s nickname for me.  I guess online, he also refers to me as ‘The Monkey’ and that’s how people seemed to know me.  It’s happened before.  I am surprised by the number of good friends, all over the world, my Dad seems to have.

Paonia, Colorado is a small town with few people.  It’s very tranquil and green. The hills have a coat sewn with the brightest of grass, and the mountains hold you in what seems like cupped hands. The view surrounding me is pleasing to the eye and fuel for this daydreamer.

Motorcycling in Mexico Presentation

The following day, my Dad presented his popular ‘Motorcycling in Mexico’ presentation.  It was a full-house as nearly every seat was filled in the building.  Many people recognized me from the pictures Dad used during the presentation and asked me my thoughts of traveling on a motorcycle.

That day, Dad noticed that the rear tire had worn dangerously low to the cords.  He spent a few hours sourcing a replacement in this rural part of Colorado.  Finding one about an hour away, he made arrangements to get it replaced. 

Dad being gone gave me an opportunity to set out, on my own and explore the surrounding farm at the Airbnb we were staying.  The kind lady who owned the home also took me into the dainty Downtown area of Paonia. 

After strolling around and enjoying the afternoon on my own, Dad called me to say he was back and could pick me up.  It was wonderful to just wander around and enjoy the nuances of this little town.
Sadly, the end of the rally was upon us.  We packed our gear and got ready to head back home.

For the ride back we took a different way along the Blue Mesa and down to Gunnison.  Then we headed west to Naturita and then over to Utah.  It’s interesting to me how the scenery and terrain change quite dramatically across the state lines. 

We stayed the night in Utah to continue to Monument Valley and cross into Arizona the following day.

As we approached Monument Valley, a light rain began to fall.  It was no big deal, and only my knees seemed to get wet.  I wish we didn’t have such a long distance to cover that day.  I would have loved to spend a whole day among these giants.

Canyon de Chelly

We continued south through the Navajo Nation, stopping by Canyon de Chelly.  It was remarkable for the picturesque formations and bright green grass at the floor.  I wandered down to get a better look into this natural wonder.

From Canyon de Chelly, we made a mad dash home.  We hit rain for about 80 miles, but it was light and kept the temperatures cool. 

After 525 miles, we finally made it home.  In total, we traveled 1625 miles during these six days.  I was glad to be back, but a part of me missed being on the road. 

The following day, I had time to reflect on this amazing trip and came up with some truths and observations.

The world wants you to see it. It’s enticing to think that everything sits just for me, waiting to for discovery. It’s beautiful that nature is never the same from day to day.

To think, one could be locked up in their room only reading about experiences like this. This time, I got to live it.

Travel is a surefire way to uncover what you truly desire for yourself. It has done wonders to improve self-esteem and bring me out of the little world I’ve created for myself.

It cannot be stressed more that the world is incredibly vast, exciting, beautiful, and worthy of your time.

I may be the happiest kid in the world because of these chances for adventure presented to me.

This story is sponsored by Irv Seaver Motorcycles in Orange County, California.  When you're in the area please visit this legendary dealership.  Irv Seaver Motorcycles is Orange County's BMW Motorcycle Dealer offering world class service, New and Pre-Owned Motorcycles, Parts, Accessories, and Apparel.

©2017 Jim and Kendal Foreman All Rights Reserved

San Luis Obispo on my journey up Pacific Coast Highway

An interesting natural wall on our journey home

At the Closing ceremony at the Top O' the Rockies Rally

With my Dad at Loreto, BCS

In the Route 66 town of Holbrook and the Wigwam Motel.

A short nap and then we continued

In front of Michael Jackson's former Neverland Ranch

Loreto Centro

 

Utah was very beautiful

A Definitive Guide for Motorcycle Passengers

I am the passenger
And I ride and I ride
I ride through the city's backsides
I see the stars come out of the sky
Yeah, the bright and hollow sky
You know it looks so good tonight

The Passenger -Siouxsie and the Banshees

1923 BMW Series II R 32

Story by Jim Foreman.

Since the very first motorcycles were produced, one of the first accessories added was a passenger seat.

Inviting a passenger to ride with you is rather straightforward.  There is no limit of people who want to experience the excitement of riding a motorbike.  Many of those passengers are even going to be future motorcycle riders.   Others are content being the pillion.

There are three elements or responsibilities to successful riding with a passenger.  First is getting someone to ride with you.  Second is what the pilot needs to do to ensure a great experience.  Lastly, what the passenger must do to make for a safe and fun outing.

Getting Someone to Ride With You

2016 BMW R 1200 RS

For some, this is the easiest part.  As an attractive single man, a conversation with a woman will invariably include riding my motorcycle.  From there, it's a high probability that she will desire and even ask to take a ride with me.

Ask any 19-year-old who just bought a GSX-R or R6.  They’ll admit it’s to pick up girls.  It works until they crash a short time later.  Sadly, many young women are just as stupid as the young men who try to pick them up.  A beginner with a huge ego and libido on overdrive is not a promising start.  Add a 600 or 1000cc supersport, with no training, gear, license, or insurance and one easily sees a fast lane to disaster.  It’s important to note that not all 19-year-old riders do this.  Many do get proper training, license, insurance, and become excellent riders.

A very unwise combination

Many potential passengers have been brainwashed into believing that even standing near a motorcycle will result in possible death.  Other times, partners or significant others don’t share the enthusiasm you have for riding.  Lastly, there are those who simply don’t have the confidence that riding with you won’t lead to a crash or worse.

All of these rejections boil down to fear.  Sometimes that fear is rational and justified, other times not.    One example of justifiable concern is after twenty something years, you decide to go buy a motorcycle to relive your wild youthful days.  The last bit of training you had was your uncle saying, “Don’t crash, OK!”  Another source of rational fear and doubt is when you arrive and your bike is all scuffed up, you’ve been drinking, or you brag about recent crashes.

The irrational fear is something entirely different.  There are levels of irrational fear from mild to extreme.  If the fear is unrealistic, it’s best to smile and forget it, at least for now.  Be pleasant and ask kindly.  If the answer is no, just say, “Whenever you change your mind, I’d love to share this with you.”  Then without any sadness or disappointment, gear up and go for a great ride.  Do wave and smile as you ride off.

If it’s your partner or child, it important to never be negative and always express the fun and beauty you experienced.  Build in them a desire to want to ride without nagging.  Nagging never works, it just annoys the other person.

For those with only a mild fear, mention a recent training course you took and how much better a rider you’ve become.   A sure-fire motivator is a photo or stories of a recent trip where you experienced incredible and beautiful things.  In every case, it’s your calm, confident, and non-desperate demeanor that will have the most success.

Sometimes, with your child, the other parent may have, for any number of reasons, filled your son or daughter's head to not go riding with you.  For six years, my daughter would not ride with me.   One week before Father’s Day, I casually asked her if she’d like to ride and she said, “Yes.”  She immediately got a big hug and then proceeded to gear her up with an armored jacket, helmet, gloves and knee armor.

My daughter, excited about riding

We did a short back-road ride for about half an hour, and then, we came back home.  When she got off the bike, she was jumping and smiling and asking when we could go out again.  We’ve been riding together, ever since.

Initially, her mother was furious.  Adjectives hurled at me included childish, irresponsible, a bad example, and reckless.  My response was to send a couple of photos of our daughter all geared up and smiling big with a beautiful backdrop.  After the initial outburst, her mother has mellowed out and has not brought it up since.

Your Responsibilities as a Pilot

OK!  You were successful in arranging a passenger.  It is entirely within your power to make the ride a great and memorable experience or a terrible one.

Foremost, please have at least 1000 miles of safe, recent riding under your bum before you think about taking on a passenger.   Any less and one is really too inexperienced to handle themselves on a bike, yet alone a pillion.

A good start is to ask if they have a helmet.  Some will and this is a good sign.  If they don’t have a helmet, do NOT go into your garage and dig out the old, stinky helmet you used to wear with a scratched visor, and it’s lining falling apart.  Now, what about states that don’t require a helmet, you may ask.  Make sure you are both wearing a good DOT helmet, period.

For me, any passenger I take with me will wear a helmet, jacket, gloves, long pants and boots.  Hiking boots work well, and most people have them.

Good reason for a full-face helmet

If your passenger does not have a helmet and you do not have a new or very lightly used helmet that will properly fit, meet at Cycle Gear or a local store with a large selection of helmets.  HJC makes pretty good DOT certified helmets.  Often they are less than $100.00.  It’s not necessary or recommended to go out and buy a Schuberth or Shoei helmet for a first-time or occasional rider.  If your passenger becomes a regular rider, then certainly get the top-tier kit. 

A full-face helmet is highly recommended.  If there is a protest or a comment that the ‘party lid’ half-helmet is fine, suggest that bugs hitting one's face don’t taste or feel good.  If anything were ever to happen, you’d want their whole face and head protected.

In one instance, my passenger met me, at her door, holding her helmet but wearing short shorts, a baby-doll tee, and sandals.  She looked stunning, and I offered a pleasant kiss upon first seeing her.  I asked her if we could take a few photos to remember the day.  I put the motorbike on its center stand and had her sit in different poses, on the bike.  Her roommate was asked take some photos of us together both on and around the bike.  After the fun with the photographs, I calmly smiled and said, “That was a great idea dressing like that for photos.  Now, let’s get dressed for the ride.”  She hesitated for a brief second, smiled and said she’ll be back in a few moments.  When she reappeared, she looked incredible in jeans, jacket and hiking boots, and I told her so.  I even asked for another photo of us and the bike and one of us riding off together.

Many first-time pillions only understand being a passenger by watching movies, TV or notice women wearing skimpy outfits.  That's all they know, so they come to believe this is acceptable.  Without ever being negative, I say, “Yes, they do reveal a lot of skin.“ I express, “If anything were to happen, I want you to have the best chance of being uninjured.   Then I'll add that nothing looks more attractive than a woman in good riding gear.”  A quick browse to the Dainese or Held website women’s section will prove your point.

Dainese Woman

For the first ride, it’s imperative that it be short, fun, and interesting.  The first trip should last 30-60 minutes.   You want to leave your passenger asking for more rather than complaining that it was boring, or too long.   If your passenger is experienced, she'll probably have her own riding gear.  You both can decide, later, to extend the ride.  Stop for a break after a short time and ask how your passenger is doing.  Make sure they are comfortable and happy on the bike and with you as a pilot.

Before you take off, take a minute or two to tell your passenger what to expect.

First-time passengers hear these simple instructions when riding with me.

1. Keep away from the muffler.  It’s hot and will burn quite quickly.
2. Please ask before mounting or dismounting the motorcycle.  Do it as if mounting a horse.
3. Indicate how you prefer they hold on.  I prefer they grip me so I know where they are and can feel what they are doing.  The ‘girlfriend’ holding your chest or waist, or ‘backpack’ is perfect.
4. Look in the direction that we're going.  It will put you in a good position.
5. Explain leaning and how they need to lean with you.
6. Indicate some simple taps or signals to communicate, as it will be difficult to hear.
7. Have Fun!

As the pilot, it’s critical that you don’t make the following mistakes with a passenger.

1. Don’t ride like a jerk or show off.  Wheelies are a very bad idea!  Scaring your passenger will only get them not to like you and regret their decision to ever ride with you.  It will also guarantee any romantic intentions that might have existed will be lost forever.  Mellow out and ride a little slower than your solo-riding pace.  With a passenger, it will take longer to slow down.  The bike will also react differently than you are used to.  Be Smooth and your passenger will respond warmly.
2. Don’t do an epic ride on the first or second outing.  Your passenger is likely not used to being on a bike for so long.
3. It’s advisable not to ride with anyone else the first couple of times.  When there are others, egos tend to be fueled.  Riding with others will result in your passenger feeling awkward, at best and angry at worst.
4. Don’t talk too much when you take a break.  Listen five times for every one time that you talk.  Your passenger will want to express how they feel.  Let them.  Don’t brag.  Simply and positively express how they’re doing and make simple corrective suggestions, if necessary.
5. Don’t put ‘the moves’ on your passenger.  Even if you two are already romantically involved.  There is enough swirling through their head without the added nuisance.  If there is a romantic desire, pursue it at the conclusion of the ride.

Being an Excellent Passenger

Being a passenger on a motorcycle is a compliment and an honor.  Good riders don’t just take anyone on their bike.  Whether it’s your first time or your twentieth time, it’s important to recognize that every pilot is different.  It’s important for you to sync up with their unique riding style and be as neutral as possible.

Being an excellent passenger starts with having a great attitude.  If you’re not in a good mood and ready to have a great time, don’t do it.  You will be experiencing new and exciting sensations.  How you react will depend entirely on your mood.

Care about your safety.  Even if you’re not prompted to by the pilot, wear long jeans, a sturdy preferably leather jacket, hiking boots, gloves, and a Helmet.  Most of the time, the rider can help you with these items.  Don’t be afraid to visit Irv Seaver BMW or a gear store like the Dainese D-Store or Cycle Gear to pick up some moto apparel.  Remember, nothing looks more attractive than a passenger in well fitting riding gear.  Some riding gear is so stylish that people choose to wear it when just going out on the town.

Here are some ways you will be an excellent passenger.

1. Listen to the pilot’s requests and follow their instructions.
2. Don’t be afraid to ask questions.
3. If the pilot grabs or taps your leg or hand it means you are doing a brilliant job, not that they’re trying to feel you up or get fresh.
4. It’s OK to give the pilot a hug if you are happy or they completed a complex move well, in appreciation.
5. Look in the direction you are traveling.  Keep your body close to the pilot and lean as they lean.  It may seem awkward at first, but it’s important.
6. Try to use your feet and body to keep from putting too much weight on the pilot while braking.
7. Be gracious.  At stops go in a buy both of you some water or a snack.
8. Have Fun!

There are several key things that a passenger should not do or avoid.

1. Don’t be a diva or complain.  Nobody likes that.  If you are too negative, you may find yourself taking a cab home.  As mentioned above, it’s preferable that you mention any concerns.  If the pilot is a jerk or not interested in what you have to say, arrange for your own ride home.
2. Don’t make sudden moves.  The bike requires balance.  Any sudden moves can upset that balance.
3. Don’t lean opposite of the pilot.  It will put added strain on the pilot and is more likely to cause the bike to crash.
4. Don’t be a know-it-all.  It’s cool that your dad or uncle rode and blah, blah, blah.  You’ll be instantly ignored if you try to act like the smartest person in the room.  Yes talk and ask questions but don’t act like you have all the answers.
5. Don’t forget to thank the pilot at the end of the ride.  If you’re inclined, offer to take the two of you out for a drink or meal in your car.

Reflections

Personally, Most every passenger experience has been great.  Everyone listened to my simple instructions, looked and leaned as I leaned and were exceptionally gracious after the ride.

On occasion it proved smart to wear my Oxford Riding Grips, a special belt with grab handles, to make it easier and more comfortable for my passenger.  Alternatively, some sportbikes have passenger handles mounted around the gas cap ring and they swear it works. Other options like Cycle Handles work well, too.

Several friends were invited to share their experiences being a passenger.  Here’s what they said.

Rocio Duran at the Korean Friendship Bell

Rocio Duran  –For years, Rocio’s mother would caution her against motorcycles.  It’s not uncommon for moms to do this even though their own experiences were probably positive when they were younger.
About two years ago, Rocio’s best friend, Nick Chan, also a rider, asked if she would like to go for a ride.  Rocio accepted.  Nick made sure Rocio knew about safety and gear and insisted that she wear a thick jacket, long pants, boots and a helmet.  He was able to provide a helmet for her to use.
The first trip was about an hour, and Rocio loved it very much.  Nick was an excellent pilot and made her feel safe.  They continued to take longer distance trips together for over a year.
When asked if there was any romantic intention with Nick, she said, they were and remain great friends, but no romance.
About the same time, Rocio began as a passenger, she also started attending bike nights with the Los Angeles Motorcycle Riders (LAMR).  Over the next few months, Rocio went and bought herself a helmet, armored jacket, gloves, and moto boots.
By the time all her moto gear was assembled, Rocio decided to take the MSF Basic Riders Course and get her license.  For the last six months, She has been riding a beautiful 2010 Kawasaki Ninja 250.  She rides primarily for commuting to and from work but is planning longer distance trips, for pleasure.
Recently we rode together, and she proved to be an excellent rider with a great attitude and sensibility.

Laura Ruddy in Rothenburg ob der Tauber

Laura Ruddy  -Laura and I became acquainted through the BMW MOA.  We are both on the younger end of the age spectrum, of the group, and shared many similar interests outside of motorcycling.  Laura is originally from Mesa Arizona but has lived in Germany for the last ten years.
Recently, on a visit stateside, we met up, and I took her out as a passenger four or five times.  I knew she was an experienced passenger, so longer trips were not a problem.  Laura owns her top-tier moto gear.

Instantly, Laura proved to be a riding muse.  She was like a $10,000 suspension job on my bike.  She would keep her petite frame light on the bike and lean, perfectly, into corners as I did.  Laura’s actions would settle the bike going into a corner and give me the added traction to take a more aggressive line.

After Laura’s stateside trip, She invited me to join her in Germany for three weeks.  Every day we rode through Bavaria, Germany, Switzerland, Austria, Italy, and Czech Republic.  Each time we would ride, our synchronicity would get better to the point where we knew exactly what we were thinking and how each of us was feeling based entirely on non-verbal communication.

(L-R) Sean Ruddy, Ian Ruddy, Laura Ruddy, and Jim Foreman

Many times, Sean, Laura’s husband, and her son Ian would also ride with us, on another bike.
Laura has evolved to become a 10 out of 10 pillion rider.  She can handle everything from a romp to the market or a day of laps at Nurburgring.  It’s reasonable to say I’m a better rider because of Laura Ruddy.

Though Laura has her ‘M’ endorsement and can ride, she prefers to be the passenger.  Lucky for me!

The things Laura loves, aside from Star Wars, her husband, and son, are motorcycles and a dunkel bier, and Germany.

Again, Many thanks to Irv Seaver BMW for their support of this blog.  Do stop in for the absolute best BMW Motorcycle deals, apparel, parts, and service anywhere in Southern California.

It would be wise to avoid riding with these kinds of riders.

Some inadvisable passenger riding techniques

Happy memories riding with a passenger

Gina Cardenas and Elaine Chang riding with the hero motorcycle cops of Santa Paula.

Jim Foreman and Laura Ruddy in Italy

Jim Foreman and daughter

©2015 words and photos Jim Foreman