Fast Facts:
- Currently riding a DR-Z 400SM
- Motorcycle Safety Instructor for 27 years
- Enjoys commuting
How long have you been riding?
33 years
First motorcycle?
I am embarrassed by my first and second bikes, so I’ll go with the third, which was a 500 Interceptor. If fit Vic Wanchena’s timeless quote “Sure, it may look skinny … but boy is it slow.”
Current motorcycle?
DR-Z 400SM. Wow what a hoot.
Why do you ride?
It’s a fun way to commute.
Who or what was your biggest influence in motorcycling?
Riding behind Brent Jass, Minnesota instructor and co-owner of Ride Safe, Ride Smart motorcycle training, transformed my understanding of riding.
How long have you been a Motorcycle Safety Instructor?
Wow, it’s been 27 years!
Why did you decide to become one?
At first, I thought it was the pinnacle of rider achievement. As I matured, I realized it’s a way of making the world a better place.
What is one piece of safety advice you tell riders?
If you’re gonna do it, do it all the way: Plan to ride every day. If your plan is to only ride on the weekends, get a Miata.
Favorite Aerostich gear?
My Wee Willy visor kit. A clean face shield and clear view no matter how far from home you get. They don’t make them anymore, so we make something like it to give away to riders at Oregon events. Come find us and we’ll give you one!
Aerostich-related or Aerostich-specific stories?
I was once completely unprepared for Rocky-Mountain-High overnight lows on a campout. My Roadcrafter made for a great second sleeping bag. Plus, my earplugs protected me from the toddler wailing in the next tent.
What is the best motorcycle advice or tip you’ve received?
“Look where you want to go.” This applies as much to life as it does to riding.
Any other thoughts?
Most riders cite “freedom” as the reason they ride. It’s cliché, but I agree. However, for me it’s not freedom like being a cowboy, or free as a bird. It’s more like the freedom to not have to put up with other drivers’ nonsense. A press on the bar and one quick twist and the path forward is clear again.
Yay or Nay?
- Backroads? Yay!
- Freeways? Ugh
- Gravel roads? Yay
- Roadside motel? Yay!
- Camping? Yay
- Helmet audio system? Nay
Learn More About Patrick:
- Facebook: Team Oregon FB
- Instagram: @teamoregonmoto
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Pat Hahn's VBR 5 Presentation, Part 1: "Three Degrees of Separation" (Click to view) |
Pat Hahn's VBR 5 Presentation, Part 2: "The Risk-Averse Rider's Guide to Safe Cornering" (Click to view) |
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