When I first started riding, I found myself constantly comparing my bike to others I'd see. At times I'd feel mine wasn't new enough, shiny enough, didn't go fast enough, had too many imperfections, etc. But about a year ago, during a ride no less, I had a bit of an epiphany. I came to the realization that my bike gets
used -- it's my daily commuter and my mental/emotional therapy. As such, how it looks must take a back seat to how it performs. Does it turn over when I push the start button? Does it idle smoothly at stop signs? Does it have the oomph I need when I have to pass a line of cars? If I can answer yes to these questions, then I really can't complain too much about my 28-year-old piece of machinery, can I?
Sure, I could tear the bike apart and fix my little oil leak, hammer out the dent in the tank, remove and repaint the few bits of rust, finally fix that drooping turn signal, and so on. But, given my schedule and lack of mechanical skills, the bike would then be in bits in my garage rather than out on the road giving me the pleasure I deserve.
I have friends that only take their shiny Chromesters out on the nicest days, when there's virtually no chance of rain or anything else that could mar their machines. If that's what they're riding for, more power to them. It's just not my bag. Sure, someday I hope to upgrade to something a little newer with better cosmetics. But for now, I'm just happy to
