oh what a wonderful day

[rayzuki]

I am on a complete euphoric high. There is no drug that will give you the feeling of being out on the country roads on a gz250 (or any bike for that matter). The sun was shining, the birds were singing, the bugs were splatting, I had a grin on my face from ear to ear. This was the perfect day. A beautiful 72 degrees in beautiful Oregon. I went out today for my first "real" ride. Up until today it was short little rides around the neighbor hood to start building my courage and skills. Today was my longest and most enjoyable ride 89 miles. I know that is short for most of you but remember I am a newbie. I got my bike back in Oct. and I live in rain country so my riding has been limited so far. Back to my story. I went out in the back farm country of northwest Oregon. Beautiful green hillsides full of berry patches and fruit trees. Side note: Anyone ever watch Little People, Big World on TLC? well that is where I live. So I am out on these country roads with minimal traffic, stops and anything to ruin a ride. Nothing but open roads full of hills, curves, and scenery (snow capped mountains in the background). What a blast. Never in my life have I had so much fun. I could have stayed out all day. I only came back because I promised my wife I would. (haven't convinced her to ride yet, although today may have helped). Everything I learned at the MSF course was used today. I even learned a lesson or two. I learned how to tuck. Big wind blasts from opposing trucks. learned that if I tuck before the blast I don't get blown backwards. I learned that bugs are the enemy and a face shield is by best friend. When I got home I had about 20 bugs on the face shield (another reason I came home). The bike purred like a kitten and ran like a champ. I did miss a shift or 2 (still learning remember). On the way back in my confidence was up so I decided to do a little in town riding. Since I wasn't nervous this was also enjoyable. My hand even got tired of waving to other riders (one thing I have always wanted to do). During my short 2 hour ride I probably saw 50 other riders not joke. I was not the only one who enjoyed this day. After all it is the first nice day of the year. Make that perfect day. I could go on but I am sure you all felt the same way on your first ride. :chop: :rawk: :2tup: :2tup: :2tup: