I turned 60 this year, and I’m finding it a struggle. My motorcycle is my sanctuary, my church and my therapist. I’m headed out on my biggest adventure in a week and I’m all of the emotional rollercoaster that you can have. Excited, apprehensive, but what I won’t be is a quitter. I’m going to do this…no matter what!
I’ve ran 200m all the way to full 26.2 marathons , played in bands guitar , bass, harmonica, lead vocals , wrote many songs , golfed , and have been riding bikes dirt and highway since 1971. I’ve been a restaurant worker, oil field worker , garbage man and now cosmetologist for the last 35 yrs . Dog owner most the time . AA member and sober 23 yrs today ! Diversity is good I’m 65 in Feb
After an car accident 8 years ago ..busted my knee ..and not able to do what I use to do ..and in the process I lost everything. 8 year unemployed with no income and unable to start living again. Nothing work out . I have a 200cc motorcycle..nothing fancy . But when I can I go for a ride and for that hour I leave my pointless existence. Those that don't ride will ever understand what a bike does to the soul . Unfortunately u have to go back ...but knowing you can get on the bike again next time ...gives u the strength for another day .
I hear ya! I am a new rider at the age of 57. Moved, recently separated, changing careers…documenting my journey on TH-cam as well. Reinvention is what life is all about. Happy riding.
I’ve been a committed daily motorcycle rider since 2004. This year I did two big things. I turned seventy years old, and I paid cash for a brand new Triumph Scrambler 1200xe. I have no intention of slowing down in any way, or of giving up my love of riding motorcycles. I enjoyed hearing your story. Happy Trails!
Don't miss the Lost Coast. I rode it on a 1974 Z1B on the way to Vancouver from Monterey. This was in 1989, when I was 25. Camped every night in early April. Now 61, a Glaswegian sitting in rural Tasmania, I still occasionally ruminate on that trip as the best of times. Btw, I ended that adventure in Boston three months later, having almost reversed Pirsig's ride.
@@brettmeikle what a ride! planning on 2 nights at the lost coast. As a Californian that has never been up there I'm really looking forward to it. I'm riding up hwy 49 crossing over and coming down the coast to Ventura where I live
I have been following your channel for a while now, but this video is where I feel I can really relate with you. Not that your other videos are unrelatable, but this one really resonated. The business about reinventing yourself, etc. yeah that is me too. We are of a similar age, in a similar career path, and ride similar motorcycles. Oh yeah, and we live nearby (ish). I am in Vancouver, Canada. Anyway, thanks for your voice, I appreciate your channel. Good job
I learned to ride at age 58.. just as one career was ending and another beginning. In hindsight, if I had gotten into riding in my 30s or 40s, it would have wrecked my career. I couldn't wait each day when I began as to when and where I could next ride to. In my first life, I was totally focused and was president of a mining company and I LOVED IT. But that never would have coincided peacefully with a bike. Now 73, fully blessed with great health, riding is a hobby and still an adventure. I don't re=invent myself, but I sure do enjoy myself.
Loved the video. At age 7 rode my first bicycle on gravel roads near where you were exploring. Now I am 56, just bought my first motorcycle. Fulfilling the dream that started around age 10 and life got in the way... I'm done waiting. Carpe diem...
Back on the road at 60.. 4years now , I love the adventure ... Some says I am not a rider since I ride the Ryker , but f them ,,,, i LOVE the adventure of the road Alain & Yellow PS I wave every bike on the road since they are like a family even it they don't know it ;.
f them. When I'm on my scooter I wave to all the fellow bikers. Half of them wave back. To some, a scooter isn't a real bike. Must be exhausting having to decide who's worthy and who's not worthy of a greeting..
I rode and commuted to work on bikes year round for decades, but an accident at age 50 put a stop to that. It took a couple of years to get back on a bike, and even now 7 years later I'm still not back to where I was mentally (i.e. VERY comfortable riding anything). It's tough. I just bought a Honda GROM. Let me tell you, that thing has rekindled my love of riding. If you have any trepidation at all, test ride a GROM.
When I was young my riding gear was a helmet, goggles, gloves, long pants, and some kind of over the ankle boots. As an older rider (70) I am not comfortable without all my armored riding gear. And I fall down more often. I get injured easily now and it takes a long, long time to heal. I used to race some and enjoyed it but I was never fast. I ride a lot slower now but enjoy it just as much.
One reply to a few of your great videos. Older rider? Yes 68. Riding since 1972. Solo rider? Almost always. I used to lead and ride with large group tours throughout the west in my younger years. These days I want no part of it. I have a new form of “group ride”. You see our group meets up each week here in NC on or near the Blueridge parkway. But… we all ride to and from solo. The way we all like it. That said, at 68 I’m next to the youngest in the group! 64 is the youngest. Just happens to be that way. The oldest is in his 80’s. All different brands and styles of bikes. No bashing, just good times on two wheels.
“You’re the only one who can tell you not to do just that…” True in everything, every day of your whole life. Wish I’d know that 40 something years ago!
I totally get it! I'm 57 and I've been through 4-5 careers. I'm finishing off a PhD right now, but I started riding at 48. I've owned 6 motorcycles since then. I recently bought a HD Pan America because it meshes with my love for the outdoors. Carry on, my friend. Fair winds and calm seas...or not...enjoy!
Nice one, good voice too. Good old youtube has a habit of finding interesting content. I'm 66 & been riding for over 45 years but took up trail & off road recently which is fun. I had a trip to Vegas earlier this year to rent a bike from Eagle Rider & did 2500 miles taking in the usual tourist stops. It's good to get out your comfort zone & experience different places, cultures, environment etc. Cheers
Thanks for a great video, I can relate to all your comments in some ways, but that’s live trying new things and we just keep finding ourselves, as a Ambo I have driven the ambulance down the road with the lights and sirens on what a rush for the first time not anymore learn real quick it could be sh_ _ , I get more enjoyment out of bike these days it’s relaxes me, keep riding guys, and keep the great videos coming 😊🇦🇺
Very good video. I’ve been riding pretty much my whole life, but I retired about 8 months ago and as an older rider, now 68 yrs young, I wished I would have worked a few hours less the last 45 years and ridden more. But I’m happy with the direction of my life now and am grateful for everything I have and for the career I had and family I raised. I enjoy your content. Keep it up.
At 68+ i have ridden since 1994. Only 3 mishaps, 1 surgery and bottom line not ready to give it up yet. My family and friends suggested giving it up and after riding the Tail of the Dragon traded down to the most fun motorcycle I have ever owned, 2023 Ducati Scrambler Icon. It is plain FUN SHINNY SIDE up boys and girls
I finally became a rider last year at the age of 50. Had a desire for years, but the reasons not to started to matter less and less. It helps that I also find myself in a position to afford the money pit we call motorcycling. Mid life crisis? Maybe. Am I having a lot more fun even if it's just getting to and from work? You bet. The only regret I have is not making the jump sooner.
I’d rather throw cash at the motorcycle money hole than counseling, therapy or liquid therapy… Too bad it took 56 years for me to come around, I guess that’s better than 57! Great video, keep posting!
This video and the one about riding alone hit me on so many levels, all in a good way though. It was great to hear your perspective, I can relate to it in many ways. I just turned 48 this past year and I'm also a software engineer. Last year I bought a 23 Scrambler 900 after a 15 year break from riding as a way to reinvent myself after a difficult period in my life. I now get to spend my free time riding through the mountains of Vermont and I wouldn't change a thing. Thanks for sharing and ride safe!
Another couple of ‘ings for you to try ‘Silversmithing, and Drawing’.(both I started after 60). Surf’ing’ was another I did for 30 years but the body can’t cope with the Paddle out’ing’ or Wipeout’ing’ anymore. But biking is still the best one!
Reinvent yourself? Nah, that is just adapting to life and its challenges. Ah, memories! Spent 19 years at the Tampa (FL) Tribune ... 1980-'99. Was definitely an adventure. Ned in SC
I love change, I love to challenge myself, adding to the experiences that define and mold me into me. Probably not reinventing myself just continuing to find stuff that makes me content and ditching the rest. I've been biking for 48 years, other stuff has come and gone but I've never even thought I'd be without a motorbike, it just gives me too much joy. Take anything, just leave me with my bike and even the darkest day will brighten up with a ride home. Great video
I am 59. I started riding when I was 7 YOA on 50cc mini-bike with a Briggs and Stratton lawn mower engine 😃. That's when/where I caught "the bug". I progressed to a Honda Trail 50, Trail 70, Honda XR-75, Yamaha YZ 80, Yamaha YZ 125, YZ 250, Honda CX-500 and Honda V65 Magna. I quit riding for about 15 years raising children and caught the bug again when my kids were older. I now have a 1983 Honda VF750S Sabre, 1986 Honda VF700C Magna, 1986 Honda CB700SC NightHawk-S and a 2004 Yamaha FJR 1300A. I love all things motorcycle; riding is communion on two wheels for me. I love to ride on long touring routes and still get that "giddy" feeling before each trip, like when you met and fell in love with your first girl friend. I love your channel Bug and look forward to every new story!
Thank you so much. Back when I was probably 14, a friend of mine had a little mini bike powered by a lawn mower engine as well. He had one hell of a time riding it. It would stall, he'd dump it, and so on. Then I'd get on and just tear ass all around his yard. It really, super made him mad. I think that's when I fell in love with riding. :) I wouldn't normally relish in someone's anger, but he was a real piece of work.
Like you Dan, last year at almost 65, I took the basic motorcycle course to see if I still loved it. I did. Less than a month later I bought a 12 Bonneville T100 with less than 1500 miles. Crashed the first week, and go back on 2 weeks later. More than 3000 miles late, i am a better rider and loving it more than ever. I don't ride as far or as much as you, but I will be on that bike until i can't anymore. 8 years ago I took up the guitar and still play at my church and practice some. I wonder what the future will bring and I look forward to it. Go Dan GO.
Dan - just found your channel and I love it. You seem similar to myself. Web developer, writer, cyclist, and motorcyclist. I’ve had all the big fast bikes and now have two groms. At 6 foot 7 inches it seems crazy but these are the most fun bikes I have ever had. Of course, once again contemplating my next new “bigger” bike. Tailwinds dude!
You being a writer makes sense now, your such a good story teller. I've been in the newspaper business as well. 13yrs with Scripps Howard, nit a writer but pagination coordinator. The writing was on the wall about 2 years after the internet. Great video, your getting in some back road dirt time!
Do you miss newspapers? I sure do. Laying out a newspaper was one of the most enjoyable things I've done professionally. As a newspaper editor for weeklies, that was part of the gig. I really miss it.
@@BugMotoChannel I do miss some of it. When I started it was the typical newpaper, lots of waiting until the last few hours when editorial would get you the hard copy and you quickly laying out the paper fighting a deadline. It's kind of strange looking back. What I remember is a building full of smoke, everyone smoked in the newsroom and the backshop. We were a daily with 60,000 subscribers so a fairly busy paper. The best part? Knowing the news before anyone else did. There was no internet back then and the local TV news was only on at 5pm so anything later that would come accross the AP was your little secret. The AP would post photos every few minutes from around the world that only went to News organizations, many that could never make it into the newspaper or on TV.
I did not have the time or money to re-enter m/c riding at 64. When I realized how much I missed it, I regretted not returning sooner. My adult son reminded me I returned at the time that was perfect for me. I admire those who may time to balance living life with working for a living.
Good thoughts, good video. The start of another trip around a fiery ball while glued to this blue marble hurtling along at thousands of miles per hour. Mine starts in a day or two. As an older rider I got one of my best friends started in motorcycling and he's about my age. His wife has yet to forgive me, but he makes it up to her. During a long career in law enforcement here in rural Colorado, there was nothing more fun than running lights and sirens with Radar Love in the cassette player turned way up. Thanks for letting us in on your thoughts!
Oh yeah, the music. I forgot about the music we used to crank (when we didn't have a patient, of course...) If I remember correctly, it was a lot of the Top Gun, and Iron Eagle, soundtracks...
Radar Love by Golden Earring. Loved that song while working on cars at a Texaco gas station in Tampa, Florida. Thanks for the memories and the 8-track.
A small suggestion if I may. When in a left turn stay to the right side of the lane. And when in a left turn stay to the right side of the lane. This allows one to be able to cut back into the turn tighter if necessary. It will protect one from the possible encroachment of an oncoming driver coming over the center line into your path. Or suffering the travails of dealing with debris on the side of the road. And generally avoids crossing over the center line. Ride safe. 👍
Well, another of your cracking videos. Much of what you say sounds like me, but you have more friends! A bad year last year, enforced early retirement and my biggest stress at the moment…. choosing between two bikes! Im aware it’s the last bike I’ll buy, so it’s got to be right. It’s meant to be a pleasure, so why am I stressed! Teach me to relax Dan 😊
It’s not all about re inventing. It’s adapting as you go along to your changing body state, mind and the environment. Uk roads are utter crap now for sports bikes Lighter smaller bikes are a joy to ride around the comparatively empty country lanes, and not sure why ageing riders buy GS s, over tall and overweight and spend all their time on busy motorways. Love your channel and that cosmic yellow is so good in the flesh.
Hi don't call yourself always I'm an old guy,old is someone who seat on the couch and is a miserable old fart with no love to live for.old we are when we are 6 ft.under ,then they will say he was an old guy ,but enjoyed live riding his motorcycle into the sunset.🌄 Until this day keep riding and your videos and relaxing voice and the sound of your motorcycle humming coming.🌄 cheers
I stopped riding for about 30 years and didn't start up again until my late 50's, when my daughters were out of the house and old enough to be mostly self sufficient. I stopped riding because I lived in a big city and was constantly worried about getting killed. When I started riding again I loved it right away. In some ways I think I enjoy it more now because I had been away from it for so long and because I'm a little smarter and safer.
Cybertruck spotted in the wild.. Recently found your channel and enjoy your videos. Also got into riding a little later in life (my early 40s) and it has completely consumed me. I relate to a lot of what you're saying and going through. Keep up the great work and videos. Can I ask what kind of camera/mic you use? The clarity is excellent and the sound of the bike really comes through without the wind noise. Cheers!
That was sort of an easter egg. If you look closely you'll notice me shaking my head in disgust. :) I use two DJI Action 4 cameras on the bike, and a DJI Pocket 3 for stand-up stuff. Audio is two DJI Mic 2 wireless lavs, one attached to the tail of the bike for exhaust sound, and one in my jacket pocket connected to a wired lav, if I'm speaking while riding, both recording inn 32-bit float. For narration I use an Earthworks Ethos mic.
@@BugMotoChannel Thank you. I've been looking at the DJI setup - all the TH-camrs seem to agree it's the way forward. My cheap Amazon action camera just isn't doing what I'd hoped it would. As in all things, you tend to get what you pay for.
Hey Dan, I assume I can call you Dan, I've been watching your awesome videos for a couple weeks now. I'm your age and have been riding for a long time and have a TH-cam channel but it kinda of ran it's course. I ran out of stories to tell while I'm riding and so it's been neglected. I really like your style of video with the voice over but still hearing the excellent pipes of your bike. Your scripts are really good and i just wanted to tell you to keep up the great work. Tell my sister hi there in Portland. I'm in TN and wish i could see her more. Maybe some day I'll get a reliable bike and make that cross Country road trip like you talked about. I've dreamed of that for years but I'd take the TAT route, mostly off road.
Wow you've got a lot of videos and a whole bunch of subscribers. If you've run out of stories to tell, that just means you gotta go out and create new stories for yourself!
You said ambulance, but I drove road repair trucks for a while and going past a traffic jam and putting up signs road closed and accident is not bad either. 30 years ago I drove big tow trucks going to accidents with trucks, you are doing 110km/h not bad either. Yes I did different jobs as well, no regrets.
Started riding at 50. Against my wife’s opinion. Did it anyway. Took the course. Got the licence. And guess what? She liked being a pillion. Still like it. But less often. Been 11 years now. Doing soft off road moto-camping. Ain’t the best and surely ain’t the worst. But now at 60, i can say it was the best decision to go against my wife’s advice : take a sailing course 😂😂😂
Hmmm, I'm one of those Harley guys. Albeit a different kind of Harley guy. At 70 you tend to ride a little different and not be stupid. You tend to try to be nice to other riders and embrace what you have in common. After all, how much time do you have left at my age?
I'm hoping to be a Harley guy in the next couple of years. I've always had a thing for 1200cc Sportsters... Just waiting for the right opportunity. My mom, who just turned 80, really wants to go to Sturgis for some reason, so I figure I'll fly her there and ride out to meet her... Someday...
You are eluding to outcomes. Our minds wish to have a satisfying outcome based on the effort we exude. That's natural. That's what everyone struggles with and turns others into serial killers. Everyone needs to accept outcomes we are not in control over (myself right now with a return phone call for a large project) and just go live your life and try something else. But focusing on the outcome will just make you want to kill someone. Just ride instead.
I turned 60 this year, and I’m finding it a struggle. My motorcycle is my sanctuary, my church and my therapist. I’m headed out on my biggest adventure in a week and I’m all of the emotional rollercoaster that you can have. Excited, apprehensive, but what I won’t be is a quitter. I’m going to do this…no matter what!
Good luck out there. What's the biggest thing that's causing apprehension?
I’ve ran 200m all the way to full 26.2 marathons , played in bands guitar , bass, harmonica, lead vocals , wrote many songs , golfed , and have been riding bikes dirt and highway since 1971. I’ve been a restaurant worker, oil field worker , garbage man and now cosmetologist for the last 35 yrs . Dog owner most the time . AA member and sober 23 yrs today ! Diversity is good I’m 65 in Feb
After an car accident 8 years ago ..busted my knee ..and not able to do what I use to do ..and in the process I lost everything. 8 year unemployed with no income and unable to start living again. Nothing work out . I have a 200cc motorcycle..nothing fancy . But when I can I go for a ride and for that hour I leave my pointless existence. Those that don't ride will ever understand what a bike does to the soul . Unfortunately u have to go back ...but knowing you can get on the bike again next time ...gives u the strength for another day .
The only motorcycle POV vlog I honestly enjoy. High production value, quality content, and… you write good. Thanks for the authenticity, Dan.
Good stuff!
I hear ya! I am a new rider at the age of 57. Moved, recently separated, changing careers…documenting my journey on TH-cam as well. Reinvention is what life is all about. Happy riding.
I’ve been a committed daily motorcycle rider since 2004.
This year I did two big things. I turned seventy years old, and I paid cash for a brand new Triumph Scrambler 1200xe.
I have no intention of slowing down in any way, or of giving up my love of riding motorcycles.
I enjoyed hearing your story.
Happy Trails!
What a great bike the XE is. I wish I had the room and spare cash for one.
love your content. 65 year old T120 rider here heading out on Sunday for a month long tour of Northern California to hopefully reinvent myself.
Have a great time. I'll be riding down there for a few days at the end of September. Can't wait.
Don't miss the Lost Coast. I rode it on a 1974 Z1B on the way to Vancouver from Monterey. This was in 1989, when I was 25. Camped every night in early April. Now 61, a Glaswegian sitting in rural Tasmania, I still occasionally ruminate on that trip as the best of times.
Btw, I ended that adventure in Boston three months later, having almost reversed Pirsig's ride.
@@brettmeikle what a ride! planning on 2 nights at the lost coast. As a Californian that has never been up there I'm really looking forward to it. I'm riding up hwy 49 crossing over and coming down the coast to Ventura where I live
Taqueria Del Sol in Gualala, Ca. has molé And Chili Verde to die for...... Just Sayin' ☺️☺️
Your "storytelling" is top notch. Love the delivery style. Cheers.
I have been following your channel for a while now, but this video is where I feel I can really relate with you. Not that your other videos are unrelatable, but this one really resonated. The business about reinventing yourself, etc. yeah that is me too. We are of a similar age, in a similar career path, and ride similar motorcycles. Oh yeah, and we live nearby (ish). I am in Vancouver, Canada. Anyway, thanks for your voice, I appreciate your channel. Good job
I learned to ride at age 58.. just as one career was ending and another beginning. In hindsight, if I had gotten into riding in my 30s or 40s, it would have wrecked my career. I couldn't wait each day when I began as to when and where I could next ride to. In my first life, I was totally focused and was president of a mining company and I LOVED IT. But that never would have coincided peacefully with a bike. Now 73, fully blessed with great health, riding is a hobby and still an adventure. I don't re=invent myself, but I sure do enjoy myself.
Loved the video. At age 7 rode my first bicycle on gravel roads near where you were exploring. Now I am 56, just bought my first motorcycle. Fulfilling the dream that started around age 10 and life got in the way... I'm done waiting. Carpe diem...
Be the 10 year old in spirit !! Ride safe and explore wherever your curiosity leads you.
Me encanta su canal,,,,y me inspira soy un motociclista de 63 años estoy muy joven en mi corazón gracias a personas como usted,,, gracias
Back on the road at 60.. 4years now , I love the adventure ... Some says I am not a rider since I ride the Ryker , but f them ,,,, i LOVE the adventure of the road Alain & Yellow PS I wave every bike on the road since they are like a family even it they don't know it ;.
f them.
When I'm on my scooter I wave to all the fellow bikers. Half of them wave back. To some, a scooter isn't a real bike. Must be exhausting having to decide who's worthy and who's not worthy of a greeting..
I rode and commuted to work on bikes year round for decades, but an accident at age 50 put a stop to that. It took a couple of years to get back on a bike, and even now 7 years later I'm still not back to where I was mentally (i.e. VERY comfortable riding anything). It's tough.
I just bought a Honda GROM. Let me tell you, that thing has rekindled my love of riding. If you have any trepidation at all, test ride a GROM.
When I was young my riding gear was a helmet, goggles, gloves, long pants, and some kind of over the ankle boots. As an older rider (70) I am not comfortable without all my armored riding gear. And I fall down more often. I get injured easily now and it takes a long, long time to heal. I used to race some and enjoyed it but I was never fast. I ride a lot slower now but enjoy it just as much.
One reply to a few of your great videos. Older rider? Yes 68. Riding since 1972. Solo rider? Almost always.
I used to lead and ride with large group tours throughout the west in my younger years. These days I want no part of it. I have a new form of “group ride”. You see our group meets up each week here in NC on or near the Blueridge parkway. But… we all ride to and from solo. The way we all like it. That said, at 68 I’m next to the youngest in the group! 64 is the youngest. Just happens to be that way. The oldest is in his 80’s. All different brands and styles of bikes. No bashing, just good times on two wheels.
“You’re the only one who can tell you not to do just that…”
True in everything, every day of your whole life. Wish I’d know that 40 something years ago!
I totally get it! I'm 57 and I've been through 4-5 careers. I'm finishing off a PhD right now, but I started riding at 48. I've owned 6 motorcycles since then. I recently bought a HD Pan America because it meshes with my love for the outdoors. Carry on, my friend. Fair winds and calm seas...or not...enjoy!
Nice one, good voice too. Good old youtube has a habit of finding interesting content. I'm 66 & been riding for over 45 years but took up trail & off road recently which is fun. I had a trip to Vegas earlier this year to rent a bike from Eagle Rider & did 2500 miles taking in the usual tourist stops. It's good to get out your comfort zone & experience different places, cultures, environment etc. Cheers
Love your content, 36 here and been riding for the past 15 years, owning all types of bikes.
I mean wow! More like a podcast on life and motorcycle. Love it!
Thank you!
Thanks for a great video, I can relate to all your comments in some ways, but that’s live trying new things and we just keep finding ourselves, as a Ambo I have driven the ambulance down the road with the lights and sirens on what a rush for the first time not anymore learn real quick it could be sh_ _ , I get more enjoyment out of bike these days it’s relaxes me, keep riding guys, and keep the great videos coming 😊🇦🇺
Very good video. I’ve been riding pretty much my whole life, but I retired about 8 months ago and as an older rider, now 68 yrs young, I wished I would have worked a few hours less the last 45 years and ridden more. But I’m happy with the direction of my life now and am grateful for everything I have and for the career I had and family I raised. I enjoy your content. Keep it up.
feel you ,sold the farm,sold the wife,73 years old t100,mv agusta 800 ,got my freedom back at last
:)
At 68+ i have ridden since 1994. Only 3 mishaps, 1 surgery and bottom line not ready to give it up yet.
My family and friends suggested giving it up and after riding the Tail of the Dragon traded down to the most fun motorcycle I have ever owned, 2023 Ducati Scrambler Icon. It is plain FUN
SHINNY SIDE up boys and girls
I finally became a rider last year at the age of 50. Had a desire for years, but the reasons not to started to matter less and less. It helps that I also find myself in a position to afford the money pit we call motorcycling. Mid life crisis? Maybe. Am I having a lot more fun even if it's just getting to and from work? You bet. The only regret I have is not making the jump sooner.
Very beautiful landscapes and some wise words! Thank you!
Word, Dan ❤
I’d rather throw cash at the motorcycle money hole than counseling, therapy or liquid therapy… Too bad it took 56 years for me to come around, I guess that’s better than 57! Great video, keep posting!
This video and the one about riding alone hit me on so many levels, all in a good way though. It was great to hear your perspective, I can relate to it in many ways. I just turned 48 this past year and I'm also a software engineer. Last year I bought a 23 Scrambler 900 after a 15 year break from riding as a way to reinvent myself after a difficult period in my life. I now get to spend my free time riding through the mountains of Vermont and I wouldn't change a thing. Thanks for sharing and ride safe!
Another couple of ‘ings for you to try ‘Silversmithing, and Drawing’.(both I started after 60). Surf’ing’ was another I did for 30 years but the body can’t cope with the Paddle out’ing’ or Wipeout’ing’ anymore. But biking is still the best one!
Reinvent yourself? Nah, that is just adapting to life and its challenges.
Ah, memories! Spent 19 years at the Tampa (FL) Tribune ... 1980-'99. Was definitely an adventure.
Ned in SC
I need a heart emoji for this one. This is my favorite one so far but I'm new here too so :) Really enjoying your channel so far!
And, your storytellings is exceptional!
From one Dan to another Dan Great video! Thanks for letting us into your head. For me it was very relatable. I dig your style!
Amazing video essay style! Absolutely love this channel
Every day is a gift and that is why it is called a present. Corney but true
Cycling is actually therapeutic
I love your style, man. And the spirit too.
Take all help! Ride, don’t worry.
Man you’re the best thing i have come across this year! Keep this coming,You’re a gem
Excellent.
I love change, I love to challenge myself, adding to the experiences that define and mold me into me. Probably not reinventing myself just continuing to find stuff that makes me content and ditching the rest. I've been biking for 48 years, other stuff has come and gone but I've never even thought I'd be without a motorbike, it just gives me too much joy. Take anything, just leave me with my bike and even the darkest day will brighten up with a ride home. Great video
Well said and well done. Thanks for the inspiration!
You forgot one detail, your 80s radio voice is soothing. 😊
Thank you! Technically it's an early-90s radio voice. I minored in Radio back in college. :)
@@BugMotoChannel LOL... bingo.
Happy Birthday. Love your videos. Thank you.
Thank you so much!
thank you for the inspiration..making that decision & move now
Happy Birthday Dan! :-) love your Vids...
Thank you!
Your videos just get better all the time, thank you for sharing👍👍
Thank you!
I am 59. I started riding when I was 7 YOA on 50cc mini-bike with a Briggs and Stratton lawn mower engine 😃. That's when/where I caught "the bug". I progressed to a Honda Trail 50, Trail 70, Honda XR-75, Yamaha YZ 80, Yamaha YZ 125, YZ 250, Honda CX-500 and Honda V65 Magna. I quit riding for about 15 years raising children and caught the bug again when my kids were older. I now have a 1983 Honda VF750S Sabre, 1986 Honda VF700C Magna, 1986 Honda CB700SC NightHawk-S and a 2004 Yamaha FJR 1300A. I love all things motorcycle; riding is communion on two wheels for me. I love to ride on long touring routes and still get that "giddy" feeling before each trip, like when you met and fell in love with your first girl friend. I love your channel Bug and look forward to every new story!
Thank you so much.
Back when I was probably 14, a friend of mine had a little mini bike powered by a lawn mower engine as well. He had one hell of a time riding it. It would stall, he'd dump it, and so on. Then I'd get on and just tear ass all around his yard. It really, super made him mad. I think that's when I fell in love with riding. :) I wouldn't normally relish in someone's anger, but he was a real piece of work.
Like you Dan, last year at almost 65, I took the basic motorcycle course to see if I still loved it. I did. Less than a month later I bought a 12 Bonneville T100 with less than 1500 miles. Crashed the first week, and go back on 2 weeks later. More than 3000 miles late, i am a better rider and loving it more than ever. I don't ride as far or as much as you, but I will be on that bike until i can't anymore. 8 years ago I took up the guitar and still play at my church and practice some. I wonder what the future will bring and I look forward to it. Go Dan GO.
Yes!
Dan - just found your channel and I love it. You seem similar to myself. Web developer, writer, cyclist, and motorcyclist. I’ve had all the big fast bikes and now have two groms. At 6 foot 7 inches it seems crazy but these are the most fun bikes I have ever had. Of course, once again contemplating my next new “bigger” bike. Tailwinds dude!
You being a writer makes sense now, your such a good story teller. I've been in the newspaper business as well. 13yrs with Scripps Howard, nit a writer but pagination coordinator. The writing was on the wall about 2 years after the internet. Great video, your getting in some back road dirt time!
Do you miss newspapers? I sure do. Laying out a newspaper was one of the most enjoyable things I've done professionally. As a newspaper editor for weeklies, that was part of the gig. I really miss it.
@@BugMotoChannel I do miss some of it. When I started it was the typical newpaper, lots of waiting until the last few hours when editorial would get you the hard copy and you quickly laying out the paper fighting a deadline. It's kind of strange looking back. What I remember is a building full of smoke, everyone smoked in the newsroom and the backshop. We were a daily with 60,000 subscribers so a fairly busy paper. The best part? Knowing the news before anyone else did. There was no internet back then and the local TV news was only on at 5pm so anything later that would come accross the AP was your little secret. The AP would post photos every few minutes from around the world that only went to News organizations, many that could never make it into the newspaper or on TV.
I did not have the time or money to re-enter m/c riding at 64. When I realized how much I missed it, I regretted not returning sooner. My adult son reminded me I returned at the time that was perfect for me. I admire those who may time to balance living life with working for a living.
Good thoughts, good video. The start of another trip around a fiery ball while glued to this blue marble hurtling along at thousands of miles per hour. Mine starts in a day or two. As an older rider I got one of my best friends started in motorcycling and he's about my age. His wife has yet to forgive me, but he makes it up to her. During a long career in law enforcement here in rural Colorado, there was nothing more fun than running lights and sirens with Radar Love in the cassette player turned way up. Thanks for letting us in on your thoughts!
Oh yeah, the music. I forgot about the music we used to crank (when we didn't have a patient, of course...) If I remember correctly, it was a lot of the Top Gun, and Iron Eagle, soundtracks...
Radar Love by Golden Earring. Loved that song while working on cars at a Texaco gas station in Tampa, Florida.
Thanks for the memories and the 8-track.
love love love
A small suggestion if I may. When in a left turn stay to the right side of the lane. And when in a left turn stay to the right side of the lane. This allows one to be able to cut back into the turn tighter if necessary. It will protect one from the possible encroachment of an oncoming driver coming over the center line into your path. Or suffering the travails of dealing with debris on the side of the road. And generally avoids crossing over the center line. Ride safe. 👍
Happy birthday brother!!!🎊
Exactly
Well, another of your cracking videos. Much of what you say sounds like me, but you have more friends! A bad year last year, enforced early retirement and my biggest stress at the moment…. choosing between two bikes! Im aware it’s the last bike I’ll buy, so it’s got to be right. It’s meant to be a pleasure, so why am I stressed! Teach me to relax Dan 😊
Just do what I do. Impulse-buy. :) Stay tuned for my next video... Bought a new bike on Friday.
@@BugMotoChannel I’m surprised my wife has stayed this long! 😊
Maybe a trike would be better and your wife can go and not freak out
It’s not all about re inventing. It’s adapting as you go along to your changing body state, mind and the environment. Uk roads are utter crap now for sports bikes Lighter smaller bikes are a joy to ride around the comparatively empty country lanes, and not sure why ageing riders buy GS s, over tall and overweight and spend all their time on busy motorways. Love your channel and that cosmic yellow is so good in the flesh.
Mate love your commentary, I will be touch when I am in Oregon next and hopefully we can do a ride together.
😊 the best part of motorcycle riding is that you can have two or three of them at the same time 😎
Hi don't call yourself always I'm an old guy,old is someone who seat on the couch and is a miserable old fart with no love to live for.old we are when we are 6 ft.under ,then they will say he was an old guy ,but enjoyed live riding his motorcycle into the sunset.🌄 Until this day keep riding and your videos and relaxing voice and the sound of your motorcycle humming coming.🌄 cheers
I stopped riding for about 30 years and didn't start up again until my late 50's, when my daughters were out of the house and old enough to be mostly self sufficient. I stopped riding because I lived in a big city and was constantly worried about getting killed. When I started riding again I loved it right away. In some ways I think I enjoy it more now because I had been away from it for so long and because I'm a little smarter and safer.
Good video bug!
Cybertruck spotted in the wild..
Recently found your channel and enjoy your videos. Also got into riding a little later in life (my early 40s) and it has completely consumed me. I relate to a lot of what you're saying and going through. Keep up the great work and videos.
Can I ask what kind of camera/mic you use? The clarity is excellent and the sound of the bike really comes through without the wind noise.
Cheers!
That was sort of an easter egg. If you look closely you'll notice me shaking my head in disgust. :)
I use two DJI Action 4 cameras on the bike, and a DJI Pocket 3 for stand-up stuff. Audio is two DJI Mic 2 wireless lavs, one attached to the tail of the bike for exhaust sound, and one in my jacket pocket connected to a wired lav, if I'm speaking while riding, both recording inn 32-bit float. For narration I use an Earthworks Ethos mic.
@@BugMotoChannel Thank you. I've been looking at the DJI setup - all the TH-camrs seem to agree it's the way forward. My cheap Amazon action camera just isn't doing what I'd hoped it would. As in all things, you tend to get what you pay for.
Agreed. The DJI stuff really is top notch. I have no complaints.
Hey Dan, I assume I can call you Dan, I've been watching your awesome videos for a couple weeks now. I'm your age and have been riding for a long time and have a TH-cam channel but it kinda of ran it's course. I ran out of stories to tell while I'm riding and so it's been neglected.
I really like your style of video with the voice over but still hearing the excellent pipes of your bike.
Your scripts are really good and i just wanted to tell you to keep up the great work.
Tell my sister hi there in Portland. I'm in TN and wish i could see her more. Maybe some day I'll get a reliable bike and make that cross Country road trip like you talked about. I've dreamed of that for years but I'd take the TAT route, mostly off road.
Wow you've got a lot of videos and a whole bunch of subscribers. If you've run out of stories to tell, that just means you gotta go out and create new stories for yourself!
@@BugMotoChannel True.
I have a lot of videos but not many to your quality or number of views.
Keep your videos coming.
"Just kidding... don't hurt me."
You said ambulance, but I drove road repair trucks for a while and going past a traffic jam and putting up signs road closed and accident is not bad either. 30 years ago I drove big tow trucks going to accidents with trucks, you are doing 110km/h not bad either. Yes I did different jobs as well, no regrets.
You could be on NPR. And I mean that as a complement!
That is indeed high praise. Thank you!
Beautiful words, but please cut that label off your glove, my OCD is killing me! 😂
I started late 54, but I'm sticking with it until I can't.
I know! It's making me nuts too.
Started riding at 50. Against my wife’s opinion. Did it anyway. Took the course. Got the licence. And guess what? She liked being a pillion. Still like it. But less often.
Been 11 years now. Doing soft off road moto-camping. Ain’t the best and surely ain’t the worst.
But now at 60, i can say it was the best decision to go against my wife’s advice : take a sailing course 😂😂😂
Am I too old to get back on a bike after many years of marriage and not riding? I'm 70. Love motorcycles
You won't know until you try!
Never!
❤❤❤❤❤❤
Hmmm, I'm one of those Harley guys. Albeit a different kind of Harley guy. At 70 you tend to ride a little different and not be stupid. You tend to try to be nice to other riders and embrace what you have in common. After all, how much time do you have left at my age?
I'm hoping to be a Harley guy in the next couple of years. I've always had a thing for 1200cc Sportsters... Just waiting for the right opportunity. My mom, who just turned 80, really wants to go to Sturgis for some reason, so I figure I'll fly her there and ride out to meet her... Someday...
Are you accepting pre-orders for your book? I would like mine autographed please! :D
That's very kind. Thank you!
I’m just turning a bad experience into a good 1
The good 1 is buy a motorcycle and get out there 🌎
You are eluding to outcomes. Our minds wish to have a satisfying outcome based on the effort we exude. That's natural. That's what everyone struggles with and turns others into serial killers. Everyone needs to accept outcomes we are not in control over (myself right now with a return phone call for a large project) and just go live your life and try something else. But focusing on the outcome will just make you want to kill someone. Just ride instead.