Boy, do I hate when morons tell people that. I've been up and down the dial from my first 90cc Kaw to a Honda Gold Wing and every one of them was a special treat. I stopped riding after a back injury took the fun away-I loved riding as much as ever but just wrestling 800+ lbs. from a stand still was killing me. I spent 10 years missing it, then finally decided that somewhere there was something I could ride and enjoy. My choice was a '76 250 Rebel which was a mere 500lbs. thinner than my last ride. What joy-all the fun of the two lane blacktops with none of the pain.
Now of course there were trade offs. Interstates are possible but to be avoided. I know longer trip the triple (hit 100 mph) once a year to prove my macho credentials. The little machine only hits 73 with my ass on it (206 lbs.) but I suspect you might get 75...People assume it is my "first bike" and that I'm itching for something larger and it's actually funny to see the look on their faces when I explain that A. I've been licensed since 1973 B. I wouldn't trade for a 'wing and C. The Rebel is in most ways a ton more fun.
My state (New Hampshire) was just made for small bikes. Most everywhere is reached by blacktop. One interstate goes south to north (93) and 95 passes thru for less than 20 miles from Massachusetts to Maine....there are no east-west interstates. But on the blacktop I can travel from the oceanfront, to the lakes region, and on up to the White Mountains in about 100 miles and three easy hours. A loop of lake Winnipesaukee is an hour and a half and 75 miles. Best motorcycle road? The Kancamagus Highway http://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g46186-d104262-Reviews-Kancamagus_Highway-North_Conway_New_Hampshire.html
With all this I don't need a rocketship or screaming sound. I prefer a gentle bend and the flow of nature around me. I get that as a teen it is all about velocity and volume but in my older years I find that just for myself its about the ride and time to reflect. It IS a cheap dream-make sure you reach yours.
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