Time was a constraint though. Went for a 40 mile solo ride. One espresso – Italian style – at Copper Coin and rode back…

The Old Gang of Four came out for the first group ride this year. Rakesh took us thru the “lost route” to Ballground.

A little drafty though.

At the young (ha!) age of 51, it struck my completely dysfunctional brain that learning how to ride a motorbike might be a good idea. The line that the frontal cortex would not let me cross was eventually breached by a lot of brown alcohol and the company of Magesh.

Phoenix was my first motorbike. I was scared as hell. But I fell in love with riding. Phoenix has been witness to too many newbie mistakes and been the not-so-silent companion in my quiet solo rides in the mountains. More importantly, Phoenix opened my eyes to the social aspects of group riding.

About 4 years and 21K miles later, I had to say goodbye to Phoenix. Very reluctantly, I might add. Pegasus is home.

I hung on to Phoenix as long as I could find space in the garage. As I transition to the empty-nesting house, it became evident to me that I could keep only one motorbike.

I realized that Phoenix needed to be set free. Instead of idling in my garage, she will bring joy to her new owner – whoever he/she is.

That picture was my last ride out of home with her.

She is mine no more!!

It was a gorgeous day. Looks like tomorrow will be even warmer…

That is the threshold after which we go out for a ride!!

… this time with Batwings on!

It was cold. I had layered up five deep and had a ski mask on under the helmet just to fend off the biting winds…

First things first… the new bike has been christened “Pegasus”. Sharmila named this one. The first one was named Phoenix by Natasha.

Second, the maiden trip included a stop at my best friend’s (Amitesh) house first . He, being a man of high standards had made himself scarce when I showed up. After having a brief conversation with his dog across a glass window – a la in a prison – I proceeded to my ultimate destination – the hospice I spend time in every Sunday afternoon.

The first realization of novelty hit me moment I got off the bike. I had no rear bag. Or any face masks for that matter that I carry in it. Fortunately, the hospice gave me a couple!!