Fast Facts
- Started riding at the age of 6.
- Owns a motorcycle business in Mexico.
- Member of a goup of 4 pilots who rode 90,000 km across the American continent to celebrate the BMW 90th anniversary.
Hometown/State?
Guanajuato, México
First motorcycle?
Carabela Poni II 50cc 2 stroke / Honda XR80R
Current motorcycle?
2021 Honda CRF1100L
All-time favorite motorcycle?
Honda C90
How long have you been riding?
37 years (I'm 42)
Why did you first start to ride?
My dad has been riding since he was a kid, my grandpa, uncles and cousins as well. It's a family thing. I immediately got hooked and still am!
What makes you most excited about motorcycling?
The fact that motorcycle and myself become one, the possibility to move freely at my own rhythm, getting to places that fulfill my heart and soul.
How did you first learn about Aerostich?
Back in 2010 I was about to go on a 4-month solo trip and I wanted all weather capable gear, specifically Gore-Tex, through Google I got to the Aerostich site, sent an email and Andy Goldfine replied to me giving me all sorts of advice and information. I was very pleased with his customer service. I kept in touch with him and then Kyle came into the picture, with whom I shared a lot of emails through the years.
Favorite Aerostich gear?
I LOVE all of my Aerostich gear, but I would have to say my Combat Touring Boots are the best. I've been super happy with my Roadcrafter jacket but since I live in Guadalajara, Jalisco, México I need something lighter like the Darien Light jacket, hopefully one day soon!
Who or what was your biggest influence in motorcycling?
I'm gonna say my dad. I grew up amongst motorcycles, my dad did too, so it's a family thing. Then I would definitely go with Mick Doohan, Jeremy McGrath and Scott Summers.
Where are your favorite places to ride?
Riding makes me happy all the time. I instantly go 'riding mode' and everything changes. I enjoy twisted roads crossing a deep forest, by the side of the ocean on Baja Peninsula, Central Mexico is awesome due to its orography, lots of mountains, valleys, volcanoes, etc. I loved my 3-month solo trip to Western USA back in 2011. I got to see the Rockies, the Tetons, lots of National Parks, etc. South America is full of contrasts, too. Bolivia was a very unique and awesome experience. I've been very fortunate to have had the opportunity to ride across the American continent.
Describe a memorable motorcycle adventure?
Back in 2014 BMW Motorrad celebrated its 90th anniversary worldwide. A group of three riders and myself contacted BMW Motorrad Mexico to propose to them a project that consisted in riding 90,000 km across the American continent to celebrate their 90th anniversary. BMW Germany accepted and provided us with two brand new 0km BMW F800GS to accomplish such a goal. I chose to ride from Mexico City to Ushuaia and up to Buenos Aires. It took me over 100 days to do such thing, and its been one of the best experiences of my whole life! I documented everything, if you guys are interested in hearing more I'll be happy to share with you! My Aerostich gear was OUTSTANDING through the whole trip.
What is the best motorcycle advice or tip you’ve received?
Leave home full of expectations but always remember: I need to get home in one piece. Safety first. Roads are not race tracks, going faster will not make you better. You are out there to enjoy the ride.
What are your hobbies and interests outside of motorcycling?
I really enjoy photography and camping, spending time with my wife Alejandra, we just got married a year ago. I would say travelling is what I enjoy the most.
Aerostich-related or Aerostich-specific stories?
I was part of the Aerostich catalogue two different years and I don't have any printed copies of any of them :( But I want to thank Kyle and everyone up there for considering me to be part of it!
Any other thoughts?
After living 12 years in Mexico City learning from corporate life, I now live in Guadalajara, a smaller city close to the Pacific Coast. My wife and I have our own motorcycle business, we sell pre-owned motorcycles. I always wanted to make a living out of my passion. And here I am! Every day I get to ride at least 10 different bikes, all brands, all sizes, all prices. Over the past five years I've been able to ride thousands of different bikes and that's a joy for me, a blessing!
Wearing Aerostich gear sets me apart from everybody else around here. It is a brand that only a very few have heard of.
YAY OR NAY?
Backroads? Of course!
Freeways? Hell yeah!
Gravel Roads? I do have enough gas in my tank!
Roadside Motel? For sure!
Camping? I'll start the fire once we're settled!
Helmet Audio System? Nope. It's my head and my thoughts in my helmet. Everyday we're bombed with radio stations, spotify, etc etc etc. When I ride I want to totally disconnect from the outside world. It's my time to hear my inside world!
You can learn more about/follow José here:
@keeptheriding
@bodega19motos
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Jose is my newest motorcycle hero. I often thought of doing pretty much what he has done with his life, specifically starting their own motorcycle business. I would have added a small touring-rental operation to the business as I live in the Seattle area and there are many touring destinations and BDR-style roads nearby. I also echo Jose’s love of his Aerostich gear, especially the CBT boots. I own two Roadcrafter suits and a Darien jacket with two pair of pants. Ride on, Jose, and stay safe.
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