A special bond

It’s difficult to describe the kind of bond a rider forms with their bike. A soldier who relied on his buddy to watch his back in battle might be able to relate. A significant other that has always been there for you when times were tough, giving you encouragement and comfort, is similar.

I’ve been riding my V-Strom since February of 2007, in some very diverse conditions and in a lot of different places. It has run smoothly and reliably and predictably through all of it, without ever complaining or giving me any frustration or hassle. Other than my watch and my Aerostich Darien jacket, my V-Strom is one of the most trustworthy things I’ve ever owned.

My bike has been there when I’ve had some of the most memorable experiences of my life — it got me there, literally — and brought me back home safely with a huge smile on my face, every time. It’s become a friend to me and I feel the same sort of affection and care for my bike as I would a human friend (or a canine friend, for that matter).

Yes, I let my bike get dirty. No, I don’t park it in the living room and sing it to sleep. Bugs on the windshield and dirt on the tires are much better indicators of actual fun than polished chrome ever will.