Fast Facts: Rides a Husqvarna 401 Svartpilen Crafting Connoisseur YouTube Channel: AmeeraDIY Where are you from/where do you live?How do you know someone’s from Maryland? Sooner or later they’ll show you a flag. How long have you been riding?I’ve been riding for roughly 6 years. I got my motorcycle endorsement when I moved to Orlando, FL in 2015 and enjoyed all the sunshine riding up and down the coast. I moved back to Maryland in 2019 and decided to sell my bike and took a hiatus from riding. In 2022, I caught the bug again when my sister decided she wanted to get her motorcycle license and I haven’t looked back since. First motorcycle?Kawasaki Ninja 300 SE Current motorcycle?I currently ride a Husqvarna 401 Svartpilen. Minus the small tank, I’ve loved every moment of it. Why do you ride?I feel free on a motorcycle! It’s so exhilarating and at times has felt like a form of therapy. I’m not much for the outdoors but I feel more connected to my environment when I’m riding. I find myself exploring and seeking out more adventure when I’m on my motorcycle, discovering local shops and routes. No ride is the same. Who or what was your biggest influence in motorcycling?When I was younger I had only seen motorcycles on tv/movies, they generally seemed like this unattainable whimsical kind of thing. That all changed when I went on a trip to Nigeria and the streets were flooded with motorcycle-taxis. I was so captivated with them just as a passenger I remember thinking to myself, I can’t wait to get one of these. Favorite Aerostich gear?The R-3 Light Tactical has everything I’ve ever desired and needed in gear plus it's easy. I can just put it on over my outfit and go. Don’t get me started on all the well placed pockets. Aerostich-related or Aerostich-specific stories?I wanted this suit because I was going to Babes Ride Out - (a ladies only ride and camp out). My first long ride after a minor accident, I wanted to be as protected as possible. This turned out to be a game changer. Thankfully I got there without incident but while on the ride up I encountered all kinds of weather. From extreme heat, on and off heavy rains accompanied with crazy winds to chilly temperatures in the evening. With the R-3 I was able to manage all these temperatures and stay dry, well every part inside the suit anyways. I also just have to mention how great the customer service is. Shout out to Stephanie. I was concerned the suit wouldn't arrive before my trip but she was very reassuring throughout the entire process and even let me know when my order would be shipped. Also I found it extremely entertaining to watch via the web cameras. What is the best motorcycle advice or tip you’ve received?If something doesn’t feel right just take the time to stop and check it. Don’t stop with the MSF course, keep practicing the basics to improve and increase your proficiency, by all means take more classes. Last but certainly not least, always ride with gear. What advice would you give to women riders?Not so sure there’s any women specific advice I have but what’s been helpful for me has been to stick with the mantra “always ride your own ride”, find a community or a buddy to share adventures with, don’t be afraid to plan your own solo trips. If there’s a place you want to go, or something you want to see, make a plan and do it. What hobbies do you have?I like to consider myself a crafting connoisseur, a hobby hopper if you will. I love making and tinkering with things anywhere from 3D painting to microcontrollers and servos. My current project/hobby has been tufting (rug making). Yay or Nay: Backroads? Yay Freeways? Yay Gravel Roads? Hopefully from Nay to Yay Roadside Motel? Nay Camping? Nay Helmet Audio System? Yay

Tell us about your riding experience while working with Cirrus Aircraft.I found Aerostich as a matter of chance. I retired from the Army in 2007 and was hired by Cirrus Aircraft (formally Cirrus Design) to do off-airport marketing. My job was simple: I was to drive a pickup truck with an enclosed trailer housing an SR-22 Mock-up around North America and set it up to support our sales staff. The best part is that I am able to bring my bike with me so I can get around. The bike (psychobike) you see here was mounted in front of the aircraft and had a ramp using the man door of the trailer to get it in and out. Many times, as my schedule changed I was able to pull the bike out and ride it home or even use it while the truck had unexpected services. How long have you been riding?I have been a rider since stationed in Alaska in 1994. Getting a job at Cirrus led me to find Aerostich which has been a lifesaver. One day I dropped off the equipment at work in Duluth and pulled out a bike and started my trip to the house in Big Spring, Kentucky. I was wearing a Roadcrafter suit and had a late start and bad weather to contend with, so I only made it to Wisconsin Dells for the night. The next day the temperatures were on the rise so when I hit Kentucky, I noticed most riders passing me in shorts and tee shirts. Now as the old saying goes most accidents happen within 10 miles of the house. I was approaching a car from behind that was slowing down to make a right-hand turn. It made the turn and then pulled a U-turn as I was passing. The speed was enough to total both my bike and the full-size SUV that didn’t see me. My biggest problem was the paramedics cut off my suit. I had no bruising at all. Current motorcycle? Being without a bike for a couple of years and with Covid slowing the world down I went bike shopping. I ended up with a BMW R1250GS. I pretty much replaced my personal truck with the bike as my daily driver. This now resides in either my garage or in front of the aircraft in the work trailer on the way to the next adventure. Only two years into ownership and already has 50K miles on it. I have two adventure bike rallies with it at the Blackwater Adventure Rally in Beverly, West Virginia. I’ve ridden across country several times and hit many more off-road adventures as I challenge the depths of the BMW navigation app. This has been a long, strange trip from the 1972 Yamaha 750 triple I owned up in Alaska until now. Back in the day, I would just enjoy the wind blowing past and now with a full array of music at my fingertips, I can add the soundtrack. Motorcycle Story I met Paul when I was driving back from my southwest tour with work. I was east of Albuquerque on the high desert plains with the temperature around 50 and drizzle when I noticed a fellow biker on the side of the road with things scattered all around the bike. I stopped and backed up to him. We introduced ourselves and he told me about his flat tire he was riding from Scottsdale to Pittsburgh. I pulled down the ramp of the trailer to see if I could secure him behind the aircraft. Knowing how much stuff bounces back there I asked if he wanted to ride my bike. He looked at me quizzically and said what bike? I told him that my bike was in front of the aircraft and it would be safer to tie his bike down up there. He was still geeking over the fact that I had an airplane. He took my bike and I followed him to get fuel in Santa Rosa, NM. During lunch we found a tire for his bike in Tucumcari, NM. We exchanged numbers and he made the whole trip to Pittsburgh on a bike (or two). As you can see from the photo Paul also is an Aerostich rider. He turned me onto the Blackwater Adventure Rally. When I got there Paul told me I was riding with him. Now I only saw Paul ride once and he had to be mellow because I had his bike and all his stuff in my trailer so when he said I was going with him I thought I was going to see West Virginia at a slow pace. At 71 years old Paul challenged my riding ability both on road and off, come to find out he had been riding these roads for 50 years. Hope this gives you some insight as the fun I have pretty much all the time around this country.

Fast Facts: Recently rode through Columbia and Peru First Roadcrafter in 1992 Motorcycle Safety Foundation rider coach Harley Davidson Riding Academy coach Hi, Hank Waters from Fairfax City, VA. I remember seeing Steve McQueen in the movie The Great Escape 1963; what a rider, and I wanted to do that too. Eleven years later, I turned 18, and my fine Irish Mom admitted I was an adult and stepped aside. Bought a Honda CB450 from my girlfriend’s uncle, and then the rest is history as they say. My primary ride today is a BMW R1250RT and several Hondas (dirt and touring). I am an active Motorcycle Safety Foundation Ridercoach, and Harley Davidson Riding Academy coach, so I get to ride a lot of other bikes. Why do you ride?So why do I ride? Harley Davidson. Riding academy sums it up well; riding is Freedom. I have made friends everywhere I go. Being a rider connects you with men and women who love the ride. I have ridden all over the US (47 states) and Canada (8 provinces), some of Europe and South America. Tell us about your 25-day ride to Colombia and Peru.My most recent trip was to spend a month riding in Peru and Colombia. Met great riders from all over Europe, Canada, and South America. What a blast. The tour group (Motodreamer) knows the culture, the communities, and selects great roads. The routes are all levels of skills to include off-road and on-road riding. Miles and miles of great twisties in the Andes mountains. I look forward to going back. I plan to make it to the southern tip of Ushuaia. Favorite Aerostich gear?My favorite gear is the Roadcrafter classic riding suit, followed by my Darien jacket, adv pants, and various sets of elkskin gloves . Bought my first Roadcrafter in 1992. My “seventh son” now wears that classic for his commute to work. My Roadcrafter gear allows me to wear a suit, a uniform, or relax in jeans and shirt and get anywhere I want to be. All my motorcycle travels begin with great safety gear and that means every travel begins with my Aerostich gear in some combination for the ride. I greatly appreciate Aerostich and their commitment to quality. When I look at the website, I get honest reviews and communication with staff is great. The Aerostitch team clearly get it. Recently my Elkskin roper gloves wore out after only 11 years and probably 100k miles. It was right at the end of my Peru/Colombia ride and a good thing I carry my back up Elkskin gloves. My replacement set of roper gloves are on back order, and I have been kept informed on status and that my order is not forgotten. What are your hobbies and interests outside of motorcycling?So, what else do I do besides ride? I spent 40 years in the military/defense industry working all over the globe. Now in my third career as a motorcycle instructor training both civilian and military programs. I also serve as a Corporate Board member of our local American Legion, volunteer with Remote Area Medical (RAM-USA.ORG), and fix bicycles for the neighborhood kids. Committed to my family, I sit here this evening surrounded by my 5 grandsons as we spend this week on spring break with them, and give their parents a spring break. Please enjoy your ride, wear great gear, ride within your limits, make memories of a lifetime. Hope we cross paths and meet on the road. Sincerely, Hank

Fast Facts: Started riding at age 60 Prefers dirt over asphalt Has a YouTube channel: @dangerdave8080 Where are you from/where do you live?My home is in Bakersfield, California about 120 miles north of Los Angeles in the San Joaquin Valley. Bakersfield has been an amazing place to raise kids and live. We have been here for over 40 years. How long have you been riding?I bought my first motorcycle at 60 years of age. I was getting a little “bored” and wanting something more to do in my off hours. Motorhomes looked interesting but I saw too many in storage facilities wasting away, so I thought…“MOTORCYCLES”! After coming home from work that day I said to my wife of 40 years, “I think I’m going to buy a motorcycle”. The response, “And I think you are NOT going to buy a motorcycle!” I could tell in her response there was a crack of an opportunity. First motorcycle?The next week I signed up for a motorcycle class to get my license. The second week I purchased a used 2008 Honda Gold Wing as my very first motorcycle. This was in May of 2017. The next 5 years I put nearly 100,000 miles on the Gold Wing. I LOVED riding. I have ridden across the country two times and up to Canada a couple of times. Like most riders, I was addicted! In early 2022 I decided to get another bike. Riding all over California there were so many “dirt roads” that left the asphalt. I tried riding the GW on dirt, but I’m not that good of a rider! Not knowing for sure I would like riding dirt, I went to a two-day “Adventure“ style Riding class, RawHyde Adventures in Castaic, California. I needed to rent a bike and all they had were BMW 1250 GS and GSAs. I was given a GSA to ride. Some would argue this is a big bike, which it is, however, this is only the second bike I had ever ridden at the time. I went from a nearly 1,000-pound GW to a nearly 600-pound GSA. Seemed ok to me! The experience riding the BMW was magical to me. The following week, May 2022, I purchased a 2020 BMW 1250 GSA. Since the BMW I have mostly ignored the GW. In my “obsession,” I have ridden over 4,000 miles on dirt. We are talking about fire roads, two-track stuff. While I still really enjoy riding asphalt, more so on dirt! Why do you ride?I feel like when I’m on a motorcycle, there is a drip of adrenaline going all the time, a great “feeling.” Riding a motorcycle is very therapeutic, a compliment to the career. There is nothing boring about being on a motorcycle. It is not stressful, there is simply a good feeling riding dirt or asphalt! Tell us about your YouTube channel, DangerDave8080.About a year ago I started the YouTube channel, DangerDave8080. There are two reasons why I started YouTube. First, I am now 67; as you get older, all muscles begin to “fatigue” a bit; I think your brain starts this fatiguing process as well. Making videos for a YouTube channel is very challenging. Learning how to use cameras and using editing software is a huge challenge. Learning how to tell 4 to 10-minute stories that people want to listen to...a long way to go, but so fun working at it! My goal is to get 5,000 Subscribers. I have a little over 500 subscribers now. I have LONG WAY TO GO! The second reason is to learn more about how this “social media” world works. YouTube is an amazing tool. We all go to YouTube to find out how to do things, what to buy...anything you want to know about is on YouTube. I learned so much about AEROSTICH on YouTube. Having a YouTube channel, I get to participate in a ridiculously small way in social media talking about motorcycle stuff. It is very enjoyable. What Aerostich gear do you wear and why did you choose it?As soon as I went to my first introduction to motorcycle class years ago, I was committed to wearing safety gear. It seemed to me that falling may be part of the adventure (I was right!), so, it made sense to me to gear up. My first gear was some pretty cheap stuff, it did not feel right to me. I looked further into riding gear and came across AEROSTICH. I was hooked! The idea of a “suit” made good sense to me. I read everything there was on Aerostich and watched every YouTube video I could find. I bought the R3 during the first couple of months after I began riding (the Gold Wing). I added the back pad and large hip pads and later the chest protector. It’s the perfect set up! Aerostich-related or Aerostich-specific stories?I fell once on ice in Utah on the GW. It was a good fall of about 20 miles an hour. I remember hitting my knee PAD, my ELBOW pad, SHOULDER pad, sliding on my back for about 30 feet (it was ice). I was not injured in any way. The suit was amazing! I fell on the BMW 1250 on a dirt road in November 2022. That was the hardest fall I have experienced. If it were not for the huge AEROSTICH hip pads I have in the suit, there is no doubt in my mind I would have fractured my hip. Once you wear AEROSTICH it's hard to wear anything else! Anything else you would like to share with our audience?I would like to encourage any rider to consider starting a YouTube channel. All you need to start is a camera (phone) and computer…share your experiences…every rider has different experiences. I really enjoy watching what others experience on motorcycles! Learn More About Dave: YouTube: @dangerdave8080 Facebook: Dave Westerfeld Yay or Nay: Backroads? YAY!!!! Freeways? YAY Gravel Roads? HUGE YAY Roadside Motel? Sometimes YAY Camping? YAY Helmet Audio System? Sena

Fast Facts: From Japan Wrote Aerostich in 1994 Motorcycles = Friendship Where are you from/where do you live?Tokyo, Japan How long have you been riding?Thanks for one of my friends, I've enjoyed riding motorcycles for 32years. I had had no interest in motorcycles until I met Katz in college. Katz who was my best friend came to school by HONDA VT250 everyday. I was influenced by him a lot in those days. It was natural for me to take motorcycle license shortly. If I had not met him, I would not be motorcyclist now. He passed away four years ago. I really thank Katz for giving me the opportunity to ride motorcycle which has enriched my life since then. First motorcycle?It was 1985 HONDA XLR250R. I bought the used motorcycle in 1991. I remember I often fell off from the HONDA. Current motorcycle?It is 2019 YAMAHA YZF-R25. I enjoy track ride with this lightweight bike. Tell us about your ride through the U.K.On New Year's Day I've thought about doing something my way after the pandemic. Then in the middle of October I took a leave of absence for twelve days to travel around the U.K. by motorcycle, which I call My Ride the U.K. tour. My Ride the U.K. tour started from London where I've rented HONDA NC750X for seven days. Then I've been to Epping, Bibury, Cheltenham, Welshpool of Wales, Bala Lake of Wales, Lake District, Edinburgh of Scotland, Liverpool, Birmingham, Donington Park Circuit, Silverstone Circuit, The National Motorcycle Museum and Stonehenge. I had good times driving thru picturesque towns and villages in the U.K. I also experienced some problems on the journey. Everything in the U.K. was new to me, so I often asked my English friends and local people for help. They kindly gave me appropriate information and good advice for me to resolve all troubles. This great experience with many English people made My Ride the U.K. tour priceless one. I really appreciate all of them from the bottom of my heart. How did you first learn about Aerostich motorcycle gear?Please see below What Aerostich gear do you use?In preparing for this travel, I chose Aerostich Cousin Jeremy Jacket which is very sturdy as my riding gear. What other countries do you hope to ride in?I've traveled around the States by car before. I hope to ride motorcycle in the U.S. someday! Do you ride to work?No. Ride to work was strictly prohibited by all companies I've worked for. What is the best motorcycle advice or tip you’ve received?Don't be wild too much. Have fun! What makes you most excited about motorcycles and riding?I'm sorry if this may sound a little different. Thanks for motorcycles, I've made many good friends in not only in Japan but also abroad. This time I visited English friend and his family in Epping, England. Four years ago, I met Austrian friend and his family in Brisbane, Australia. Fifteen years ago, I went to see American friend in Washington, the U.S. They gave me warm welcome. We had good conversation about two wheels in their man caves. We love motorcycles. Our thing in common makes good friendship between us. Aerostich-specific stories?It was 1994 when I read an American motorcycle magazine to brush up my English. As soon as I saw Aerostich's ad, I wrote you an attached English letter to ask for a copy of free brochure. But I could not afford to buy any items from you in those days. Then now I'm enough matured to buy Aerostich brand gear. It has been my dream to ride motorcycle wearing Aerostich Jacket of good quality. Yay or Nay: Backroads? Yay Freeways? Yay Gravel Roads? Nay Roadside Motel? Nay. We do not have that in Japan. Camping? Yay Helmet Audio System? Yay. Wireless bluetooth headset helped me a lot complete my Ride the U.K. tour.

How long have you been riding?I started riding the summer of 1994 with the MSF beginner course, in LA. Then I bought my first motorcycle, a lovely purple, orange, pink, and white Suzuki GS500e. I didn’t ride a whole lot in LA, until I moved to Wisconsin. Kind of ironic, I think. Current motorcycle?I currently ride a 2020 Triumph Tiger 900 GT LRH. Her name is Toni. Why do you ride?I ride for the sheer pleasure. I like to tour. I have seen a great deal of this beautiful, grand country. I visit friends, some of whom I hadn’t seen in 20 years. I go to National Parks. I love the American Southwest. But also the Blue Ridge and the north. There is so much to see. Next year I will see the Northeast on my motorcycle. Everywhere I go, I meet people. Everyone everywhere is friendly! Who or what was your biggest influence in motorcycling?I had two major influences. I spent more than half of my career working in automotive and motorcycle safety. Practically everyone I knew was a rider. I was around them all the time. When I finished school, I was more than ready to join them. The other was Tom Berry, without a doubt. When I moved to WI from CA, I had ridden very little, really. Then I started riding with him and he taught me a lot. I learned about safety, touring, motorcycles, packing, route planning, scanning, and so much more. We rode all over together, to rallies and museums and National Parks. We rode together for 12 years. We rode to Pinkerington, OH for Malcolm Smith’s induction into the AMA Hall of Fame. (Another strong influence.) That’s him on my Triumph Legend. Tom introduced me to Aerostich. Soon after I got to WI, we rode to Duluth and I chose my Roadcrafter. That was in 1999. I wore that exclusively until I moved to TX in 2014. That’s when I bought my R3, much better in this heat. We attended two Very Boring Rally’s, the 20th and the 25th. (I’m sorry to have missed the 40th. Duluth is not en route from Texas to Oregon.) I thank Tom from inside my helmet often. What has been your experience as a female rider?I don’t really think of myself as a female rider, just a rider. I go where I want and stop when I want. I make all my own trip plans. The only thing I don’t do is work on my bikes. I take them to the trained mechanics. I find that people are friendly pretty much everywhere. People are helpful. I have never had any bad experiences with people when I’m riding. What advice would you give to women riders?To use Nike’s great catchphrase, just do it. Get trained. Get good gear. Practice. Practice. Get more training. Find a trusted mechanic. Make sure your bike is in tip-top condition before every outing. Pick something you want to see. Go ride. When you get there, talk to people. Join groups of other riders sitting around after the day’s ride. Sit at the bar when you go eat. Know where you are going to stop and make sure there is somewhere to eat that you can safely walk to. Also, I find organized tours to be wonderful. They do all the work and I just ride. Very fun. What Aerostich gear do you wear and why did you choose it?I have a hi-viz one-piece Roadcrafter R3. I might not have bought this second one if Aerostich had not gotten women’s patterns. But it has worked out wonderfully. When I was ordering it, I contemplated colors. But I had been preaching conspicuity to anyone who would listen, so I decided to put my money where my mouth was. It works. I feel quite safe in Roadcrafter. And it is convenient, except for going to the bathroom. Small trade-off. Aerostich-related or Aerostich-specific stories?One of my Aerostich highlights was being included on the cover of the Spring 2017 catalog. It was my first big solo tour after moving to Texas. The photo was taken at the top of the Sandra Crest. I kept the catalog. It is kind of like a trophy! What is the best motorcycle advice or tip you’ve received?That’s kind of funny. Of course, look up, where you want to go. That is always in my head. But most recently, I was talking to the head instructor at the BMW Performance Center and telling him that coming to a stop, I sometimes feel unsteady. He told me not to touch the ground until I am stopped. No paddling. That has helped me tremendously with my stopping performance and my confidence. So simple, yet so helpful. Follow Nancy: Facebook: Nancy Broen

“They talk about being in the moment, and people meditate to be in the moment, but if you ride motorcycles, you have to be in the moment.” You recently completed a cross-country trip for mental health, can you tell us about that?Well I had known about major trips that people have taken such as national park tours etc., but I knew that I wanted to do something different, and travel the entire country from the West Coast, to the East Coast and back again. I made the trip in 23 days. Once I had the trip in the stages of planning, I had created a page and personal project and had a number of people join with their support, with the main focus and goal being mental health. People were interested and supportive of the journey, and admired that someone was stepping out of the daily routine of work, and riding for a good cause. I never felt alone while I was riding, because I and the support of the online community that was following along. I guess a major lesson that can be taken away from this is that you have to sometimes build your own community, if you sit around and wait for it to come to you, it’s not going to come. You have to reach out and give value, and you will receive it in return. What was the route that you took on your trip?This year, California has been experiencing an extreme amount of rain, which I had initially had not thought would be a problem for my route, but once April came around I realized that I would need to change my route, leading me to Southern California from the San Francisco Bay Area first, and then heading into Arizona, and heading all the way East, hoping to avoid the rain. For the most part, I was able to avoid the rain, but high winds did affect energy levels. After making my way through Texas, Louisiana, Mississippi, and into Georgia, I did however, need to adjust my trip due to high levels of rain. I had plans to visit Washington D.C, but couldn’t because of the rain. I was even forced to take a day off, and stay at the hotel and wait it out, reading the book “How Will You Measure Your Life?” People often think of mental health as someone who is in a hospital being pumped with medication, which is such a small percentage of what people experience. Most people suffer silently, and one of the reasons we suffer is because we look for answers to our problems, but through trial and error, people find the right way to live. A quote that I try to live by, is that you can never avoid pain but you don’t have to suffer. This related a lot to the overall experience of the trip. Although I did experience adversity on the trip, and the need to change the route, I kept moving forward and kept focusing on what I could control. When did you originally start motorcycling?When I was in my twenties I started riding in India, but it was not a hobby there, that was just the mode of transportation at that time. My first motorcycle was a 125 cc Suzuki, just a little guy. I cannot imagine riding for pleasure in India, I did one ride between cities, and thought to myself ‘I never want to do this again’. In India the practice is to tap your horn as you pass somebody, which leads to the noise pollution being absolutely terrible. Then coming to the United States, I got my first motorcycle after having kids, which was a Suzuki Boulevard. I later upgraded to a Goldwing with the expectation of using it on a trip with my sister visiting from India, but she never showed up, but I now have a better motorcycle for long distance riding. What is your favorite part about riding?My favorite part about motorcycling is that your mind has to be right there, fully present. You can’t be thinking about anything else. They talk about being in the moment, and people meditate to be in the moment, but if you ride motorcycles, you have to be in the moment. It allows me to be in the moment, which is the most powerful thing about motorcycling for me. How did you first learn about Aerostich?You know I was just looking for motorcycle gear at the time and did a Google search, and the first thing that struck me was the price, but then I did the math and thought about it, and if you buy any other gear you have to buy new gear every couple years, and it’s never waterproof, making Aerostich the best choice. Now both my son and myself ride using your gear. What’s your favorite Aerostich gear to ride with?The Roadcrafter one-piece, and I really like the waterproof glove covers as well. Have you ever experienced a crash?I’ve tipped over a couple times throughout the years, but fortunately I’ve never experienced a crash. Follow Venkat: Instagram: @ridingformentalhealth

Fast Facts: Motorcycle author Circumnavigated the globe six times Owns over 30 motorcycles How long have you been riding?62+ Years First motorcycle?Honda CB 77, 305 Super Hawk Current motorcycle?I have about 30 + in my global stable, some running, some planned to be running, some “resting.” The oldest is a 1931, newest is 2015. My daily runner, in my USA base, is what I call an Urban Adventure Model, a 2009 Kawasaki KLX 250. My Urban Adventure Model in my winter home in SE Asia is a 130cc Kawasaki KAZE. For road work in Asia, I use a 2015 Versys 650, in the USA a 2009 KLR 650. Why do you ride?I became hooked on motorcycles as my main mode of transportation after my parents said, “You cannot have a motorcycle, instead you can use the family station wagon.” It was originally rebellion mixed with fun.  Then it became a greed for speed as I began motorcycle road racing, but still with the fun factor. Today riding motorcycles remains my main mode of transportation. I ride them because I can and there still remains the fun factor in my motorcycling equation. Who or what was your biggest influence in motorcycling?The fun and utility factors of moving myself between points were, and remain, big influences. As for a “who,” Andy Warhol taught me everything I know about writing about motorcycles and a way to make a living spinning words and images. How many times have you ridden around the world?I have circumnavigated the globe six times, six different ways. I have used a myriad of motorcycles on those global loops, ranging from an AMAZONAS to BMWs to KAWASAKIs. I have no choice for “what is best” for a global ride. The fun factor is usually a priority, as is the dependability. I care little about “the look” of the motorcycle I am using, care far more about its dependability. The book I wrote about five of my global rides, DOWN AND OUT IN PATAGONIA, KAMCHATKA, AND TIMBUKTU addresses some of my motorcycle choices.  What is your favorite country to ride in?The United States of America. Favorite Aerostich gear?AEROSTICH riding suits. I have used several different models. For me they make what I deem to be the best. I also like that when I see an Aerostich riding suit motorcyclists I can relate to the statement they are making, “I chose the best.” Aerostich-related or Aerostich-specific stories?The first motorcyclist to circle the world did so in 1912-1913 (Book: MOTORCYCLE ADVENTURER). He wore a non-motorcycle textile one-piece riding suit. The motorcycle he used was a HENDERSON, a company that he felt made the best motorcycle for his global ride at the time. I believe that if he were assembling his gear for a global ride today he would make the same decision on riding gear, go with a textile suit. Because he chose the best motorcycle I suspect he would also choose the best riding gear: Aerostich made, because he wanted the best. When we were preparing the cover photo for the book defining “adventure motorcycling,” we had numerous options for the riding gear the adventure motorcyclist would be wearing. The photographer said, “Let’s make this simple, wear the best.” Thus the cover of ADVENTURE MOTORCYCLIST: FRAZIER SHRUGGED has an image of the rider wearing an Aerostich Darien suit, one that was dirty and well-worn, far from the prettiest we had been offered. What is the best motorcycle advice or tip you’ve received?When personal movement by motorized two-wheels ceases to incorporate an element of fun, it’s time to quit. Learn More About Dr. Frazier: https://www.amazon.com/stores/author/B003B6TD1C/about Check out one of his books, in stock now: Adventure Motorcyclist: Frazier Shrugged Watch the presentation given by Dr. Gregory Frazier at the Aerostich factory on Friday, July 28th, 2023 as part of the Very Boring Rally 5. (Click to view)

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 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)

About Voni... Fast Facts: Ridden over 1 million miles Always wears red First bike was a Yamaha RD250 About Paul... Fast Facts: Ridden over 65 years First bike was a 1958 Sears moped Has owned over 20 motorcycles Yay or Nay? Backroads? Yay Freeways? Nay Gravel Roads? Yay Roadside Motel? Yay Camping? Yay Helmet Audio System? Nay Yay or Nay? Backroads? Yay Freeways? Nay Gravel Roads? When I have to Roadside Motel? Yay for Mom and Pop's Camping? Yay Helmet Audio System? Not yet but maybe Where are you from/where do you live?I was born during a blizzard in North Dakota, 60 miles from the Canadian Border. Presently I live in an Adobe house in the desert in far West Texas, 25 miles from Mexico. How long have you been riding?Over 50 years. Do you ride to work?Well, I don’t have work now. But when I was a teacher, I rode 50 miles round trip to my high school in all kinds of weather. And now, every year on Ride to Work Day, I find a way to Ride. First motorcycle?A blue Yamaha RD250. Current motorcycle?I have two. My red BMW R11RS with 416,000 miles on her odometer that Paul gave me for Mother’s Day back in 1993, and a red BMW G310 GS which was presented to me by my mechanic and lover, Paul, to celebrate our 50th Anniversary. Why do you ride?Why do I breathe?  Because my heart and my mind require it! You're famous for wearing red suits, why did you decide on that?Back in the 70’s the only protective motorcycle gear I could find was black. I knew that as a young mom it was really important I do not die. Since everyone knew motorcycles were dangerous, I knew I needed to be seen. On one trip to the mall, I saw a red leather Michael Jackson jacket.  I bought it and quickly cut off the fringe and epaulets and wore it till it wore out. Later Paul found red leather bib pants, and even though I thought they were too expensive, he insisted I have them. My students loved me as Mrs. Red, so even when I wasn’t riding I’d wear red somewhere. . . It’s worked so far. No one has run into me! How many miles have you ridden?Over 1 Million 100 Thousand miles - 1,770,000 kilometers - (certified by BMW Motorrad USA) all accident-free. How did you accomplish this?I started really slowly. My first 100 miles were all in our rural farmstead around the apple orchard and looping the house and barn. After that, the gravel roads around the area seemed safer than the pavement where there was TRAFFIC! In my first seven years, I rode 11,000 miles. Then, as the kids grew older, I started riding more. And more. Paul had less vacation than I so I started riding solo. All over the US and Canada. By now I’ve ridden in all 50 states and all of the Canadian Provinces as well as five countries in Southern Africa and New Zealand. In 1999, after having won the BMW MOA mileage contest four times without really trying, I set a goal to ride as far as I could in the 6-month contest. Turned out that was 73,660 miles - 118,500 kilometers! Including 72 consecutive days of 500 miles or more. In 2011 Ardys Kellerman and I met at Red Mountain Overlook on the Million Dollar Highway in Colorado to celebrate being the first two women to reach that goal. Who or what was your biggest influence in motorcycling?Definitely my husband, Paul Glaves. It was his idea that I learn to ride so we could spend his two weeks of vacation touring and camping with our two kids. He bought a pillow speaker that attached to my CB radio and gave me real-time hints about what to watch for as we rode along. He always made sure that my bikes were fully serviced and had fresh tires. What has been your experience as a female rider?I’ve received overwhelming support from other riders: male, female, all brands. One of the highest compliments I’ve ever gotten came from a stereotypical Harley rider who watched me climb a gravel hill and declared “You ride just like a Man!" What advice would you give to women riders?Ride all you can. Read about riding. Train. Dare just a bit more than you think you can do. Actually, that’s what I’d tell any rider. Aerostich-related or Aerostich-specific stories?The first time I visited Aerostich was in 1998. I’d ridden Big Red to New York City for the opening of Art of the Motorcycle at the Guggenheim Museum and then joined a Rolling Rally of BMW Oilhead Motorcycles heading to our National Rally in Missoula, Montana. Andy (Mr. Subjective) opened his home to us and I just remember how humble and encouraging he was to everyone!  What is the best motorcycle advice or tip you’ve received?Do it! Follow Voni on Facebook! Where are you from/where do you live?I was born in Ohio, raised in North Dakota, and have lived in the great plains and Central US most of my life. I currently live in West Texas just north of Big Bend National Park. We spend most summer time spent riding in the US and hanging out in Kansas. How long have you been riding?I bought my first two-wheeler 65 years ago at age 14. It was a Sears & Roebuck 49cc Allstate moped. I have been riding ever since, except for a couple of years I spent as a car gearhead in high school. Who or what was your biggest influence in motorcycling?There are two answers to this question. One big influence was simply the fact that motorcycling provided both freedom and adventure. I could go places I otherwise wouldn't go. I think the person who influenced my riding the most was Reg Pridmore. I took my first on-track riding school with Reg in 1986 at Laguna Seca Raceway in California and then a few more times at Road America and Heartland Park Topeka. First motorcycle?My first was the 1958 Sears moped but then a 1966 Yamaha 250 scrambler. Current motorcycle?I currently have a 1994 BMW K75, a 1995 BMW K75 RT former police bike, a 2018 BMW G310GS, and a 1966 BMW R27. I have owned 16 BMWs, two Yamahas, one Kawasaki, and one Suzuki in addition to that first moped. Why do you ride?I began riding for the freedom it provided. Soon it was the adventure of going places. Now after 900,000 miles, it has become a passion and a way of life. Tell us about riding with your wife, Voni.Voni and I seldom ride with a group or more than one or two other riders whom we know well. We have now ridden so much together that we can usually guess what the other is doing or thinking without asking. Our riding styles are matched very well. Whether it is a short local ride or a multi-week trip we pretty much stay on the same wavelength. When Voni was learning to ride she went first and I followed, coaching her via a CB radio and pillow speaker in her helmet. Now I usually ride first. When people ask why, she smiles and says, "The MSF teaches that the least experienced rider should always go first." What is the best motorcycle advice or tip you’ve received?Always look where you want to go; not at what you are trying to avoid. What makes you most excited about motorcycles and riding?Going to places I have never been before. The best examples are the five countries in southern Africa and also New Zealand. What was your toughest ride?Probably the 1999 11-day Iron Butt Rally. But equally memorable was a late September ride in 1985. I left a rally in southern Tennessee in 80-degree weather, and headed to Kansas. Somewhere in the Missouri Boot Heel, I hit a massive cold front and it started to rain. I was not dressed for cold wet weather and my riding gear was not the best. Adding layers helped a little but not a lot. By the time I got home at Topeka, I was shivering and hypothermic. Voni stuffed me into a hot bath immediately. Favorite Aerostich gear?I have had three two-piece Roadcrafter suits. My current favorite is a Darian Jacket with Roadcrafter two-piece pants with the zip-on bib top. I also always have my blue Aerostich fleece sweater packed, ready to wear as an added layer. Aerostich-related or Aerostich-specific stories?I have two stories. One day I left work and stopped at a convenience store a block from my office to get gas. I went inside to pay. I was wearing my gray-green colored two-piece Roadcrafter suit. The clerk looked at me and asked, "What are you - some kind of paratrooper?"  feeling a little snarky I shielded my mouth with my hand and whispered, "Task Force Delta. We are on a mission but you can't tell anybody." I left, got on my motorcycle, and rode home.  I think he locked the door behind me. I was riding with two companions on a narrow two-lane road along the eastern side of the Mississippi River in southern Illinois. It was a partly cloudy spring day right after Memorial Day. We passed two riders who had pulled over and were putting on their rain suits. I thought that was rather odd and we kept riding. Rather suddenly a thunderstorm began. It was raining hard. The road was along the river, swampy on both sides, and there were no places to safely pull off. I was wearing my Aerostich Roadcrafter. My two companions were both wearing leathers. When we arrived in Cape Girardeau, Missouri we stopped at the parking lot to sort things out. My shirt collar was a little damp. Their leathers were soaked and the leather pants were sagging on the suspenders. About this time the riders we had passed putting on their rainsuits rode by and smiled and waved. Meet Voni & Paul Glaves at the VBR5! Join us on Friday, August 25th at 2pm!Voni and Paul will be doing a speaking and storytelling event at our Duluth store and factory for our Very Boring Rally 5.

Fast Facts: Rides to Work Has four boys (all who want to ride one day) Had a motorcycle crash that changed his life How long have you been riding?I have been riding for a total of 4 years. How many years have you been riding to work?1.5 years. Why do you choose to ride to work?Riding fuels my soul. It turns the mundane drive into something engaging & revitalizing. It’s these short drives that are my own little escapes, as riding requires me to be fully present. What type of work do you do, and why is it convenient for you to "Ride to Work"?My brother and I started a landscaping & tree removal business about 3 years ago. We discovered after our first year that I drove thousands of miles within a 60-mile radius. It had been years since I rode, but my brother suggested we get a bike for fuel & maintenance savings (and he knew I’d love it). Typically driving a car, I find myself thinking about the “next” thing. Which can be good, but since we started our business, I find that to be a consuming mental headspace. So, when I swing my leg over the bike, hear that first rev, all that's on my mind is the road ahead. Where do you keep your gear when you ride to work?On a typical bid I will take off my helmet and set it on the mirror, I hang my backpack on the right handlebar, and my suit is draped over the handlebars, fully off the ground. How do you set up your gear at home for easy access?At first, I had it all in the mud room, but if I was riding in the rain, it wouldn’t always be warm enough to dry. The suit was too long for the standard hook height, as the legs would be on the ground. Now in my home office, I have a heavy-duty coat rack that holds all my gear. I hung it about 7’’ off the ground so my suit wouldn’t touch the ground. My helmet and gloves hang on that as well. Was your bike chosen for the purpose of commuting? Tell us about it. Did you modify it at all? How?I bought the green 2022 Honda Rebel 500. The modification list is short for now. I have a slip-on muffler with a single baffle. The bike was quiet, and I wanted to add another element to bring attention to my presence while riding in traffic. My riding experience started with a Ninja 600. It was from riding that bike that helped me make a decision about what I would like to ride daily. I knew I needed a bike that would put me in a more neutral position. I also wanted to take into consideration the perception of future customers. To me the bike looks more utilitarian than anything else. I climb and cut trees for a living, so I wouldn’t consider myself risk averse, but I have come a long way from the college kid with a “fast” bike. I didn’t want a bike that was begging me to knee drag around every corner or rip down every straightaway. Simply put, I wanted a work bike, a cruiser, and to me, this one checked all the boxes. Do you carry a backpack or a messenger bag? Why?I wear a waterproof backpack. My backpack holds water, laptop, ipad, 100’ tape measure, tree tape, business cards/flyers. I have found that I don’t need too much with me to do just about any quote for a customer. When I am riding, I occasionally see a tree that has fallen or is in poor health and I am able to quickly drop off a flier and go. When do you choose to take a car instead of your motorcycle?If I need to pick up things for the business that will not fit in my backpack. If it’s 40 degrees or lower it is a challenge as well. I have a few more things to buy before that temperature feels comfortable for longer rides. What benefits do you receive from riding to work?Peace. When I ride I feel at peace. Favorite Aerostich gear?Men's R-3 Light One Piece Suit Aerostich-related or Aerostich-specific stories?Well, I used to dress for the ride, not the slide. I was young and dumb. I paid the price. I wrapped myself around a tree going about 55mph. When I decided to start riding again safety gear was at the top of the list. At first I was skeptical of whether or not I would like my R-3 Light one-piece suit. I gave it a try and fell in love. About a month after I had the suit I went to put my bike away and needed to swing around the block to do it. I didn’t grab my suit, I hopped on and went around the block. I was amazed how vulnerable/naked I felt without my suit. The suit has become as vital as the helmet I wear when I ride. Tell us about your family. I am married with 4 boys and a 5th child on the way! Do you think any of your kids will want to ride a day/do any of them talk about wanting to ride one day?The boys love the bike, when I pull in the garage they ride their bikes to park them next to mine. It’s great. They always want to hop on the motorcycle and wear Dad's helmet. I think they would love to try it. They were able to have a little experience riding on 50CC dirt bike with training wheels and an accelerator limiter. I hope they ride someday. How did you overcome the fear of getting back on the bike?After the crash, still on crutches, I walked the road where I crashed. I could still see the skid marks from my tires, over 100’ long. I saw the tree I hit. I watched the film from the mounted camera on the bike and I heard the sound of my own body strike the tree. The sound of the wind getting knocked out of me. I was a leaf in the wind. Helpless. The mistake was made and I didn’t have any control of what came next. I broke down in tears when I saw where I landed. Three cinder blocks. One above my head, one to the left and right. I knew I should be dead or paralyzed. It is only by God's grace that I am here. I was 21, I thought I was invincible, but I was confronted with my own mortality. It was one of, if not the most humbling moments in my life. As I write this, I still find myself holding back tears. It changed the trajectory of my life. Beautiful things came from the crash: I met my wife, I started living life differently. It changed me. I have been pretty tenacious about overcoming things that bring me fear. After the crash I was determined to rebuild the bike and reclaim the same road that I crashed on. So that’s what I did. I rode that road as a different person. Soon after I started pushing the limit again, it felt like the bike controlled me, not the other way around. It was a difficult decision, but I decided to sell the bike because I was not mature enough to ride and I was about to start a family. It's been 11 years since the accident. You wouldn’t be able to tell that I once rode a bike like the world revolved around me. I now ride with the awareness of what can happen and how quickly. It is a profound privilege to “ride to work”. Learn More About Ethan: Instagram: @ethan.j.taylor and @taylors_outdoor_service Facebook: @Ethan J. Taylor Website

Fast Facts About Ryuhei: From Tokyo, Japan Riding around the world Currently in Pakistan You are “Riding The Globe”. Tell us about that. That is my title of this journey and represents my dream.  Why did you decide to do it? Just because the life is once. I wanted to see the world directly with my eyes and touch with the culture and people via riding my bike. When did you start? It has been almost 11 months since I left Japan. Where are you currently (May 2023)? The north of Pakistan. What is your route? I shipped my bike from Japan to Dubai, UAE. Then Oman, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Bahrain, Jordan, Syria, Lebanon, Iraq, Iran, and now Pakistan. After Pakistan, I will head to China via Khunjerab Pass. And will get through China then go to Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, and if I will be able to get inside of Russia, go up around the Caspian Sea and visit Caucasus countries, Turkey and Europe. After Euro, Africa and after Africa, finally South and North America. Actually, I don't decide the exact route. Have you ever been to the U.S.? Yes, I have when I was a little boy with my family. And I love to visit U.S. in this journey. When and where do you plan on arriving in the Western Hemisphere? (somewhere in South America? Canada? USA?) As I mentioned, I want to visit South America, U.S., and Canada as well. But I don't know when I can reach to there and also don't know if my money will last. How did you pack/what did you take with you? Camping equipment, electric devices, clothes, spare parts, and tools. I mostly use Touratech's carrier system and Giant Loop's luggage. Any interesting stories to share from your Riding the Globe? There were a lot of interesting stories actually. One of them is a crash in Rub' al khali desert, Saudi Arabia. When I was riding there, it was almost 50℃ and I was hazy...I could not notice a big burst tire on the road and suddenly I turned the handle. Then crashed into the desert. Fortunately, my injury was only some scratches but the bike was half-filled in the soft sand. Also, fortunately, a rolly came and the driver stopped to come to me and helped me. We recovered the bike to the paved road and did some emergency fixes. The engine was fine so I rode to Doha, Qatar with a distorted handle In Doha, I left my bike at the Yamaha factory. Do you commute to work by motorcycle? Yes, When I was working in Japan, I commuted to work by motorcycle. It is much faster and comfortable than the metro. You know, Japanese Metro's crowding is awful. Why do you like motorcycling? Because it is almost like wings for me. Whenever I want, a motorcycle will take me to the place wherever I want. Motorcycles can be our true partners of the journey I think. Cars are sometimes too much big and bicycles are sometimes too weak to get through the tough roads. How did you first learn about Aerostich? I was searching for the best jacket for my travel and finally reached your HP [Home Page]. Favorite Aerostich gear? Darien Jacket and Triple Digit Glove Covers. See more of Ryuhei's journey here. Yay or Nay: Backroads? Yay Freeways? Yay Gravel roads? Yay, but not too deep. Roadside motel? Yay Camping? Yay Helmet audio system? Nay

How long have you been riding?I started riding in 1968 and rode until 2020 after suffering a stroke. I rode for 52 years. What was your first bike?Honda CT90 How did you first learn about Aerostich?I first learned about Aerostich through a magazine. What's the farthest you've traveled?The furthest continuous ride was to Tuktoyuktuk, Canada. However, I have ridden in New Zealand after flying in Aerostich-related story?Aerostich has always kept me comfortable, dry and protected. I once crashed on pavement and my Stich’ performed and protected well. Came out without a scratch. What is the best motorcycle trip you've taken?The best motorcycle trip that I’ve taken was a tour through Mongolia. Did you ride with a group?Most of the riding I did was solo, but I did ride with a group only on guided tours. Have you experienced a serious crash?Never really a serious crash, just the one mentioned before. Do you have a favorite motorcycle that you've owned?My favorite motorcycle that I’ve owned was my Goldwing. A Note About Riders No matter how one parses it, riding a motorcycle is physically, emotionally, and logistically far more challenging than driving. Riding for some is a long-term commitment, but at some point, all eventually stop. Sometimes it is a new marriage and the creation of a young family. Other reasons involve financial, logistical, physical, or medical issues. Those who self-identify as motorcyclists see themselves this way forever. No matter if they are able to be riding or not. And this is so for this month’s Rider Of The Month. A serious stroke took some things away, but he’ll always be a rider. This is what happens. Lives are built around motorcycling and John will be a motorcyclist in his heart and mind forever. Every other rider is right by his side. Including me. So John, from everyone here, thanks for being this month’s Rider of the Month. - Mr. Subjective, April 2023

Fast Facts About Chris: Has been riding 35 years First bike was a 1985 Ninja 500 Spent six weeks in the hospital after being hit by a driver As riders, we know the inherent risks associated with riding a motorcycle. One of the most dangerous is drivers turning left in front of you. In 2020 there were 2,741 fatal crashes involving a motorcycle vs. an automobile. In 42 percent (1,158) of those crashes the other vehicle was turning left. We've all had that feeling approaching an intersection ahead, you notice an opposite-facing vehicle with its left turn indicator on and wonder if the driver can see you. What if they don’t? Would you have enough time to react? [Mr. Subjective posted various techniques one should practice to help mitigate the risks on the blog.] Unfortunately, this exact scenario played out for me last year. I was riding home at about 4PM (96 DR 350) and had the green light at an uncontrolled intersection. I saw a car in the left turn lane, so I positioned myself as far right as I entered. About halfway through the intersection, the unthinkable happened. The driver turned directly into me. There was nowhere to go and absolutely nothing I could have done. It was a direct hit, center cut, a Bullseye!!! My left side took the brunt of the impact, and I was ejected over the car approximately 20 feet onto the right shoulder. The pain was immediate and so severe I passed out. Both my bike and the other driver’s car were totaled. I sustained a broken left hip, femur, ankle, foot, right wrist and right ring finger. The heel pad on my left foot was torn from just below the Achilles tendon down to mid arch. I spent six weeks in the hospital, had three surgeries on my leg, and titanium rods holding it all together. I was in a wheelchair for 4 months and used a walker for 3 more after that. Once able to walk I started physical therapy 3 times per week and will continue until the end of this month. It’s taken months of hard work and a dedicated team of doctors, nurses, therapists, family, and friends to help get me back on my feet. My leg strength is such now that I no longer limp and am completely pain-free. My medical bills totaled well over 250k. Reflecting back on that day I realize how lucky I was. I easily could have lost my leg, or worse, my life. As it happened the driver behind me had a dash cam and captured the entire incident. I plan to continue riding but mostly on the dirt (BLM trails all around). Be Careful out there!! When did you first get back on your bike? Once my leg/foot was strong enough to hold the bike upright. How did you overcome any fear that you may have had? By reminding myself I’ve been riding for 25 years and this is the only accident I’ve had on the street. I’m not going to lie though, I get a bit more tense when going through intersections. Are you riding any differently now? Yes, I’m going to spend the majority of my time riding dirt/fire trails now. What precautions do you advise others to take while riding a motorcycle? Always stay vigilant. Don’t ride scared and trust your instincts. AGATT. Keep your insurance premiums up to date. Add uninsured motorists to your policy. The person that hit me had the minimum required 25k. I would have been #$#% without it. How long have you been riding? 35 years Why did you first start riding/what was the draw? California sunshine almost year-round and moto-friendly traffic laws. In California lane sharing/splitting is completely legal and motorcycles get unrestricted access in the HOV lane. My work commute (car) went from 90 minutes (each way) down to 30-40 minutes. That is roughly 10 hours per week not spent sitting in traffic. It feels like cheating :) What was your first bike? 1985 Ninja 500 What is your current bike? 2016 GSXS 1000F, DR 350 (totaled) What do you do for work? Systems Engineer - Mobile Security How did you first learn about Aerostich? B.A.R.F (Bay Area Riders Forum) Why do you like motorcycling? Transportation/utility/commuting/dirt/sand/track...I like everything about motorcycles. What is your favorite piece of Areostich gear? Was my R3 (EMT’s cut it off - view pic) and the innershell ultralight. Follow Chris on Instagram.

Fast Facts About Chase: First bike was a Honda CRF 150 Works in Alaska Lived on a sailboat for about 3 years How long have you been riding? First bike was about 20 years ago; I have been riding on road approximately 15 years. You've traveled extensively, tell us more. I work in Alaska and I always try to find creative ways to get there each summer and return. The motorcycle has been a spectacular way to explore Alaska, Canada and the western U.S. Alternately I’ve ridden around Baja and most recently spent a week in Belize. I also had the opportunity to live on my own sailboat (a 38’ Beneteau called “Esprit”) and sail the Caribbean and Gulf Coast for about three years. What do you do for work? I am a specialty equipment inspector; specifically amusement rides and theme parks. I am also a freelance powersports writer. What was your first bike? Honda CRF 150. What is your current bike? I have three, a 23 KTM 690, 08 KTM 990 Adventure and an 07 KTM XC 300. Why do you like motorcycling? It is the most immersive way to experience an area. People approach a single rider and invite them into their lives. Instead of seeing locals as characters in your story, you have the opportunity to experience the world as they see it from ground level. You recently started a YouTube channel. Tell us more. I was doing fun stuff and I enjoy telling stories. If I even get to share them with friends and family that would be enough. I’m not great at videos but if I keep doing it, I will get better. How did you first learn about Aerostich? In Alaska being dry and warm is the name of the game. Watching riders from all over the world on their way to the Arctic I noticed that some seemed happier than others. Those motorcyclists were wearing Aerostich. Favorite Aerostich gear? Next to my copy of “Aerostich Lightweight Unsupported Motorcycle Travel for Terminal Cases” the Darien Jacket is my favorite item I’ve gotten from Aerostich. I can personally attest to the fact it can stop your motorcycle cold by jamming in between the tire and swing arm and not suffer even a scratch. Aerostich-related or Aerostich-specific stories? 5k miles in Alaska during one of the wettest summers on record; my Darien Suit kept me dry. Anything else you would like to share with our audience? Your Aerostich gear will outlast your bike, your back, and all fashion trends. Quality you cannot deny. Buy once, buy American. Follow more of Chase's adventures on Instagram and Facebook. Yay or Nay? Backroads? Heck yes Freeways? Meh Gravel Roads? High speed Roadside Motel? Not so much Camping? Wild camping Helmet Audio System? Cardo Bold

Fast Facts About Eric: Rides with his wife, Marilou Dentist for 34 years Commutes by motorcycle About Eric I’m 62 years young. Married to my lovely wife for 33 years, she rides two-up with me on our long moto rides and I can’t say enough great things about a woman that rode with me 524 miles, ten hours straight on the Devils Highway Loop, Phoenix and back on (US-666) and didn’t complain for a moment…until she got off the bike, couldn’t walk and I had to carry her up the stairs. When I’m not on my bike or daydreaming about being on my bike, I’m a practicing dentist for 34 years and counting. How long have you been riding? I started riding in 1985 when I was in college but took a break for a number of years when our kids were younger. I started riding again in 2009 and I’ve been riding with a smile on my face ever since. Side note, my wife was totally against me riding. After I purchased a bike in ’09, I spent a week sleeping on my couch, getting the stink eye, and oh man, if looks could kill, there’d be yellow crime tape with a chalk outline of my body in the garage next to my bike. It was all worth it and that’s a true story. First motorcycle? It was a 1976 Schwinn Krate bike with ape handlebars and a dope banana bucket seat. Then I started adulting and rode my first motorcycle, it was a 1985 Honda VF 500 Interceptor. Current motorcycle? I have three motorcycles, a little excessive, my wife says, but I think it’s perfect for the variety of riding we enjoy. For touring with my wife two-up across the USA, I ride a 2016 BMW 1200rt. Riding solo for long stretches I ride an adventure bike, a 2022 BMW 1250 GSA. And for the daily commute to work; a 2018 BMW r9t Urban GS. What makes you most excited about motorcycling? Truth be told, it’s the adventures and amazing places you see when riding. I love riding with my wife and with friends that are passionate about motorcycles and enjoy the open road. The more miles, the bigger the smiles! What is the best motorcycle advice or tip you’ve received? Well, I wish I could say I thought of this, but it was something I read and truly enjoyed. "The best life advice I could ever give you: - buy a motorcycle - find a bunch of friends with motorcycles to hang out with - Die Happy" Two out of three is good for me, I'll 'Die Happy' later. Favorite Aerostich gear? The Hi-Viz leather Transit jacket and black Transit leather pants. My wife loved my Hi-Viz Transit jacket so much, she wanted one for herself even though they were mens sizes, she got the smallest one Aerostich made, and it was perfect for her. She rides in the AD-1 pants and loves the versatility of Gortex in any weather. When I brought it home and wore the Transit jacket and pants, my 28-year-old son took an IG photo of me posted it on his IG and captioned it “My bad-ass dad.” That made me smile and laugh out loud. Aerostich-related story? I wore my Hi-Viz leather Transit jacket to work this summer in the morning, a friend was driving in the opposite direction on the freeway and passed by me. He texted me later that morning, "Hey, I saw this dude riding his bike with a yellow jacket and it looked dope, what do you think it was, a Klim or what?" I texted back, "Dude, that was an Aerostich jacket and that was me lol." I’ve not seen a Hi-Viz Transit jacket like mine yet, and now I know no one can ever tell me "Hey, I didn’t see ya coming." What is the best motorcycle trip you've taken? This was an epic ride we took earlier this year, my wife and I riding two-up, with my best riding buddy. We started from Phoenix, rode to Joshua Tree, then Angeles National Forest. Stopped in Los Angeles to check out Bike Shed Moto, picked up Pacific Coast Highway, or the One in Santa Monica up the California coast, Pismo Beach, Morro Bay, Big Sur, Carmel by the Sea. Stayed a night in San Francisco, the next day rode across the Golden Gate Bridge, Sausalito and Mt. Tamalpais, Stinson Beach and up to Bodega Bay then through Napa Valley and on to Lake Tahoe. The ride on the America’s Loneliest Road (HWY 50) was the following day, it was a crazy decision and that's a one and done. The next couple of days we rode to Jackson Hole, Grand Tetons, Yellowstone, Needles Highway, the Black Hills, and home. 3,500 miles, eight days, eight national and state parks. We rode unbelievable twisties and passed through incredible scenery on roads that were only dreamed, but now experienced in all its breathtaking beauty. What is the best part about traveling as a couple? My wife, Marilou, and I have shared so many motorcycle adventures together, we’ve ridden over 12,000 miles in three summers. We‘ve toured through national parks, state parks, the awesome beauty of America that we’ve never seen before on two wheels. It’s a priceless journey we’ve accomplished together and to share the stories and memories of our trips is better when we both can tell the story. What is the most difficult part about traveling as a couple? There are a few challenges, but one that comes to mind is this; as a rider, I have to be aware my partner has to get off the bike no more than 100 miles and stretch, hydrate, and just get a break from the monotony of endless paved roads. I can ride solo further and much longer, but to make a long ride a safe and a positive experience for both of us, you gotta make sure your passenger is enjoying the ride and not miserable sitting behind you. What is your favorite lunch food on a motorcycle trip? Anything that’s quick and light to eat. Marilou likes a healthy salad; I’m looking for a BLT with potato chips. It truly sucks when you eat a heavy lunch and 60 miles later in the middle of nowhere, you’re looking for anything remotely looking like sage brush to run behind and drop a deuce. It’s brutal and yet we’ve ALL experienced it at some point in riding. Anything else you would like to share with our audience? Aerostich is a unique product. If you visited the Aerostich location in Duluth and toured the building, you will walk out with an Aerostich suit or Aerostich gear. Aerostich is simply that good and the individuals working there genuinely believe in their brand and product, it doesn’t get any better than that. Yay or Nay? Backroads? Absolutely yay. I'm always trying to find backroads to ride. Freeways? Wishy washy yay. I'd rather ride two lane highways than full on five lane interstate freeways. Gravel Roads? Absolutely yay on my GSA but a hard nay on my RT. Ya gotta know your bikes limitations. I rode the Moki Dugway on my RT, 2 up. I had white knuckles the entire way up. Roadside Motel? Yay, but it’s gotta be clean, not sketchy. And has to be safe to leave a bike parked out front. Camping? Yay, for me. For my wife, that’s a hard nay, she’s a glamping gal. Helmet Audio System? Yay. I couldn’t ride without one, not so much the intercom or the mesh with a group of riders but definitely just to hear my playlists and podcasts!

Fast Facts About Rex: First motorcycle was a 1980 Honda CM400T Travels with his wife, Carrie, seven months a year doing face painting at fairs, festivals, and special events How long have you been riding? 14 years. I started in 2008. Who or what was your biggest influence in motorcycling? My dad bought a 45-inch Harley Davidson when he returned from WWII. He followed the wheat harvest from Kansas to California and the east through Canada. His stories inspired me to get my own motorcycle when I was able. First motorcycle? 1980 Honda CM400T. Current motorcycle? 2006 Honda ST1300. Favorite Aerostich gear? My Hi-Viz R-3. Aerostich-related or Aerostich-specific stories? I pulled up next to a guy on a chopper in Phoenix on a very hot day, like 104 degrees hot. We both looked at each other at a stop light. He was dressed in shorts, flip-flops, and a tank top. Both of us said, at the same time, "How can you stand to ride like that?" Much laughter! Tell us about traveling around the country and doing face painting. We are on the road for about seven months a year doing fairs, festivals and special events, mostly in the Pacific Northwest but we start our season here in Arizona. I love to see new places and it’s great to see customers return. We have some customers that bring their children to have their faces painted that we painted when they were children. When you travel do you find places you want to go back to via motorcycle? ALL the TIME!! A couple of years ago we were in southern Washington and a friend told us about the Mt. St. Helens visitor center. The following year we were able to ride up the mountain and visit. Wow what a great ride! Beautiful road, beautiful views and a great little restaurant on the way back down. Does your wife ride? Yes, Carrie took the MSF class as a surprise to me while I was away on a trip. She rides a Honda CTX700 with the DCT transmission. Normally that is the bike that goes with us on tour because it fits nicely in the face painting trailer. She was fitted for her Roadcrafter two piece at the same pop-up I was up in Oregon. What is the best motorcycle advice or tip you’ve received? Ride until something hurts... figure out how to fix that. Then ride until something else hurts, fix it. Pretty soon you're comfortable for a 22-hour ride! Also...The bike goes where the eyes go.

Fast Facts About Richard: Started racing at 9 years old First motorcycle was a 1968 Hodaka ACE 90 Works at Harley Davidson This month’s rider-of-the-month works in product development at Harley Davidson. We wanted to know more, and he very generously agreed to tell us a little about his motorcycle life. Working at Harley HQ would be a dream job for many riders. How did you end up working there? They were looking for a rider with off road experience for the Development of the PAN-AM. What’s your favorite part about working there? Great job, Great co-workers. What’s your favorite Harley model? The Pan-Am 1250. How did you learn about Aerostich suits? Always looking for good gear. My first BMW RT was 1995, the Roadcrafter suit was the best gear I found for that bike. Do you know others at Harley who are also Aerostich customers? There are a few test riders that are Aerostich customers. Tell us about your commute. I ride to work every day (rain or shine) 185 miles round trip. Work based in AZ. At the APG: I ride year-round at work and to work 5 days a week. Do you also ride for recreation and/or vacations? Yes, I ride and race anytime I can, Vintage motocross, Off road on my 2020 R1250 GSA hp and my 2014 KTM1190 R, some highway road trips. Have you ridden anywhere outside of the US? Where? Mexico, Raced the Baja 500 on my 1998 KTM 620 sx. Did you ever race motorcycles? Started racing at 9 years old motocross and desert in SO-Cal. Raced AMA Supermoto, Don Connett’s STTARS in CA. Still race when I can. Did you come to motorcycling via bicycling as a teenager or start riding later in life? Had a Taco 22 minibike at 3 years old. Rode bicycle then and still to this day. Anyone else in your family ride? My Father was a Desert racer. My Daughter rides too. First motorcycle? 1968 Hodaka ACE 90. Current motorcycle? I have a long list. 1958 Matchless 250, 1972 BSA B 50 MX, 1972 CZ 400, 1995 KR 600, 1998 KTM 620, 1971 HONDA CB 350, 2014 KTM 1190R, 2008 Kawasaki Concours 14, 2020 BMW R1250 HP.

Fast Facts About Greg: Ridden over 810,000 miles Over 1 million visitors to his website Rides a 2019 BMW GSA How long have you been riding? 45 years First motorcycle? 1974 Honda 500 Four Current motorcycle? 2019 BMW GSA How many miles have you ridden? 810,000 happy miles! How many IBR events have you completed? I have ridden in 5 IBR’s and been selected for 7 IBR’s. What is one piece of advice you would give to other long-distance riders? Always keep alert and never let your guard down. What Aerostich gear do you wear for long distance riding? Darien Jacket and AD1 pants. What was your most difficult ride?Riding to the Panama Canal, it was very challenging! What's your favorite road? It is funny but I really like riding on I-10 west of San Antonio. Have you ever had a sudden flat tire at high speed? Yes, in Guatemala and wow. Fortunately, I have TPMS, and it alerted me right away. You've ridden a lot of places! Where do you want to go next? After riding to the Panama Canal this year, I want to ride to South America next year. Tell us about being a long-distance rider. I first started riding motorcycles back in the 1970s as a cheap mode of transportation and my father was a Shriner and road Harley Davidsons in the Shriner parades. It always felt so good as a kid when I got to ride on the back with my father. Being in the military back in the 1970’s meant that I did not have much money, so a motorcycle was a great way to get from Point A to Point B cheaply. This is when the long-distance riding bug bit me and it’s never gone away. When I first started riding, I could not really afford hotels and that meant I had to ride straight through to my destinations, sleeping on the side of the road or in rest areas along the way. I made many trips from Great Lakes Naval Base, Illinois to Miami, Bike Week, Americade Rally in Ruidoso, New Mexico, and the Grand Canyon. I was riding a Kawasaki KZ650 then with a National Cycle windshield, a duffle bag and sleeping bag strapped to the sissybar and a small pup tent attached to the front forks. The necessity of not stopping over the years started to grow on me and before you knew it, I really did not want to stop anymore. I really liked pushing the limits of how far I good ride before I needed to stop for rest. I get so excited before a big ride and start my planning many weeks if not months in advance. I often spend many hours on the computer looking at mapping programs reviewing and finalizing the best route. For me the preparation is part of the fun of long-distance riding regardless if it’s undertaking an IBA ride or competing in a rally. I have really taken to riding BBGs (1500+ miles in less than 24 hours) and have finished over 72 of them and probably ridden another 20 or more that were not documented. I have certified a BBG3000, three BBG Trifecta’s and a BBG Quattro Gold (four BBG’s back-to-back to back-to-back). One of the reasons I like riding BBG’s is that is a long ride that allows me to get that feeling I get when I am riding. There are a couple great things about long distance riding that I really love, the solitude of riding mile after mile for long distances, day after day, and the people you share the road with and meet when you get there. The long-distance community is a group of great people. For me hitting the road on my motorcycle means good times! Tell us about your website: I started my website over 15 years ago and I have had over 1 million visitors in that time. I have a lot of information on how I do different things for my motorcycles. I also have some good ride reports on my website. It is meant to be an educational website for others to learn. Other thoughts? I really like to help others break into motorcycle riding and especially long-distance riding! I get a lot of emails, phone calls and Facebook messages asking many types of questions. Connect with Greg on his website and on Facebook.

July is Women's Motorcycle Month! Fast Facts About Emily: Riding since she was 6 years old Writes for Canadian magazine, Motorcycle Mojo Holds an all-ladies dirt bike event in Revelstoke, BC every year How long have you been riding? I started riding when I was 6, I was lucky enough to have parents encourage me to enjoy the sport. First motorcycle? 1979 Yamaha GT 80 Current motorcycle? KTM 790 ADV R Beta 300 RR Suzuki SFV 650 Who taught you how to ride? My dad taught me how to ride for the first time, we quickly decided it would be better for someone else to teach me other than a parent. Was riding always a part of your family's life? Ever since I can remember. I often say it’s lucky that I actually like motorcycles otherwise I’d be in the wrong family. My dad went as far as building me a wooden motorcycle to push me around on when I was first born. How old were you when your parents started the magazine Motorcycle Mojo? I was eight years old; I remember being dragged to bike shows and hanging out under the table while my parents worked the bike shows.  When did you start writing? I wrote my first article when I was 18, after I completed a 23,000km trip from Ontario to Alaska and back. I never took any formal education for writing. I believe it developed through the passion of motorcycles. What is your favorite place to ride? My favourite street ride is just south of my home in Revelstoke, BC, Canada. Just south towards Nelson, it is in my mind, the best riding roads in Canada. I often try to sneak away for an afternoon to go ride those roads. How did you learn to maintain motorcycles? My father was able to teach me a lot about motorcycles, although I’ve never had much confidence about diagnosing and working on machines. These past few years however, I’ve committed to taking apart my bikes and rebuilding them so I know every piece of the machine. Have you ever been hurt by riding? I have had many minor injuries while riding, but I did get injured badly while snow biking 7 years ago. Snow bikes are dirt bikes, adapted with skis and a track for winter riding. I had a really bad crash which broke my shoulder, damaged both legs and gave me a bad concussion. Were you ever scared of getting on a bike? If yes, how did you overcome it? There’s been few times when I’ve doubted myself with motorcycling. However, I have dealt with fear while riding after hitting my first deer 11 years ago. Since that day I’ve always been very nervous around animals and riding at night. However, sometimes fate has a different idea, last year while riding locally in my area I hit my second deer by bike. Both times I killed the deer, kept the bike up, and was able to walk away with little or no injury. The biggest take away and reason why I’ve been able to overcome my fear is that assessing the situation and understanding what I’ve done right and what I could do better. What was your longest or most difficult ride? When I was 18 I decided to spend three months on the road from Ontario to Alaska  and back. I had run out of money by the time I had gotten to BC, so I had to work to be able to continue my way up and to Alaska. Have you ever attended a women only motorcycle event or ride? Yes, I actually hold an all ladies dirtbike event here in Revelstoke, BC every year. How do you encourage other women to become riders? The biggest thing I can say to any ladies who have doubt or concerns about their riding is that we’ve all started at the same point that you are at in your riding. We’ve all been beginners and we’ve all had huge struggles with our riding. We like to compare ourselves to others, but in the end we all have our own path with riding. Remember to enjoy yourself and find other women that help inspire you to be your best. What is it like being a high-profile woman rider in a male dominated field? (not sure I’ve ever heard myself be called high profile, lol I feel special) It’s been great, throughout my career I’ve been able to have my voice heard within the industry for women riders. And have worked to be able to build up not only the women side of the industry but also the overall Canadian motorcycle industry. I still get told at least once every ride “Isn’t that bike too big for you?” by a man. I politely respond, "they all feel the same once you’re rolling." Any tips for women riders? Ride your own ride, and don’t get caught up listening to others’ opinions of you or your bike. If you have questions about bikes or gear try to reach out to a knowledgeable female rider first, they’ve likely gone through the same struggles you have questions about. Are there any other women specific grooming tips for women riders? Always wear sunscreen, drink lots of water and always wear earplugs, it’s not fun being deaf. Also pack small and healthy snack to eat throughout your ride instead of heavy greasy food that will use energy to digest. What other hobbies do you have? I also love mountain biking and dirt biking in the summer. In the winter I spent my days snowmobiling and snowboarding.  Favorite Aerostich gear? That’s a tough one, I love all of my Aerostich gear, however, the R-3 one piece has quickly become my most used suit because of the comfort, versatility, and style of it overall. Aerostich-related or Aerostich-specific stories? I’ve travelled all over North America and the world, anytime I see someone wearing Aerostich I know they are a rider I can get along with. I’ve slid out in gravel with my Aerostich gear and confidently rely on it to protect me.

Fast Facts About Chad: Purchased his first bike when he was 15 Currently owns six bikes Commutes regularly How long have you been riding? Since I unwisely purchased a 1986 Yamaha Fazer 700, thirty-two years ago. WAY too powerful for an inexperienced 15 year old. I loved every minute of riding it. How many years have you been riding to work? A solid decade, exclusively by bike. Before that, I commuted via motorcycle sporadically. Why do you choose to ride to work? Mental health. I found that, after battling city traffic daily in an automobile, I arrived home not in the best mood, typically irritable and fatigued. Switching to motorcycle commuting completely reversed that for me. I now get home energized and in a positive state of mind. Where do you keep your gear at work? I purchased some cubicle wall hooks and hang my Falstaff jacket and pants or Roadcrafter Lite on the cubicle wall. The helmet, gloves, and other accoutrements remain in the bike luggage (or sidecar). How do you set up your gear at home for easy access? I purchased an inexpensive particleboard wardrobe from a home improvement store, which sits in the garage, near the bikes. It's not quite large enough for my embarrassing amount of riding gear (and my wife's gear, to be fair), so there are helmets and gloves piled up on top, as well. Tell us about your route. Does it vary on different days? It depends upon which motorcycle I choose to ride. I don't take my Ural cT on the interstate, so on sidecar commuting days, I take a delightful winding country road to work. If it's the BMW K1200GT, then I take a slightly longer route that is mostly interstate highway. The commute times for either route are about the same, since the BMW takes advantage of highway speeds. Was your bike chosen for the purpose of commuting? Tell us about it. Well, I have six bikes at the moment, so I'll focus on the two I've been favoring lately. I was in the U.S. Navy, commuting back and forth to my ship on a 1994 Honda VFR750 to which I had added Givi luggage (and the old Aerostich Lane Share Tool [tip o' the hat to those that remember that delightful gadget]), when I decided that I wanted a roomier and more modern motorcycle, to be funded by an upcoming 9-month deployment. I had decided that a BMW R1200GS would do nicely. While I had always been aware of their existence, I never gave the Ural sidecar motorcycles much of a thought, but during my monotonous days at sea, I used my limited internet availability to learn more about them, to the point that I bought a new 2015 cT instead of the BMW adventure bike. The Ural opened up a whole new aspect to my riding. So much so, I guess, that I ended up accidentally acquiring three more. Yes, I unintentionally own four Urals. As for my BMW K1200GT, there was a period where all five of my motorcycles (four Urals and the Honda VFR) were down for maintenance, so instead of fixing one, I decided to add a Royal Enfield Himalayan to the fleet (I'm not the only motorcyclist that thinks like this, am I?). Except that they were unobtanium. So popular, I couldn't find one anywhere. I was in my local BMW dealership and saw a very clean 2007 K1200GT, a sport-touring bike that reminded me of a Yamaha FJR1300 that I once owned and remember fondly. It was priced to sell, so I abandoned my Royal Enfield aspirations and gained an exceptional commuter bike. Did you modify it at all? How? I added a navigation unit to the BMW, along with a USB port and RAM X-grip 'phone holder. I've been eyeing some auxiliary lights for it, but have not yet pulled the trigger on a purchase. The bike really doesn't need anything else; it's packed with amenities from the factory. My Ural cT is highly modified, but items relevant to commuting are the addition of Koso Apollo heated grips, a three-pack of auxiliary lights (I call the set 'The Deer-spotter 3000'), splash guards for my legs, and a metal fairing with a huge old Honda Goldwing windscreen atop. Oh, and a RAM swiveling cupholder for milkshakes. Do you carry a backpack or a messenger bag? Why? In the past, before selecting motorcycles with integrated luggage, I commuted with a backpack, but I much prefer keeping my flotsam and jetsam off of me and on the bike. When do you choose to take a car instead of your motorcycle? Only during torrential downpours or if I need to transport something large (and I mean LARGE, because a person can haul some pretty ridiculous items with a sidecar). I haven't yet encountered a temperature so high or low as to discourage me from suiting-up and riding. Any tricks or tips for commuting? Naw, nothing an experienced rider doesn't already know: stay out of "cagers'" blind spots, always dress with what you want to be wearing while you're crashing (padding, Kevlar, and clean underwear), and get a sidecar to continue motorcycle commuting when it's icy and snowy. What benefits do you receive from riding to work? Aside from the previously mentioned positive state of mind, I save a few bucks on gas and a few minutes walking to and from my vehicle. I also get to meet a lot of interesting people when I fuel-up the Ural during a commute (although, I guess this is only a benefit if you're extroverted). Favorite Aerostich gear? I really like the Falstaff jacket and pants. The Roadcrafter Lite is a technological marvel, but I really enjoy wearing my Falstaff ensemble. It's comfortable, it's warm in the winter, and it just looks 'right' on a vintage-looking bike. AND, through some kind of strange 'Benjamin Button' sorcery, the more you wear it, the BETTER it looks. I wish Aerostich made a hybrid mesh-paneled version for summer wear, because my one nitpick is that, even fully opened-up, the Falstaff set is just too warm for summertime use. If you build it, they will come, Aerostich; think about it. Aerostich-related or Aerostich-specific stories? When I was in the Navy, I commuted about 40 minutes between my home in Virginia Beach and my ship, the USS WASP (LHD-1) in Norfolk. I had (and have) the Aerostich Lane Sharing Tool installed on my Honda VFR, which, for the unfamiliar, is a James Bond -esque motorized license plate rotater, intended to reveal a smiley face when the license plate is rotated in order to show gratitude for allowing space in traffic. Beginning my commute home one day, I noticed a shipmate behind me in the parking lot, so I pressed the handlebar button and looked in the VFR's mirrors for the response. After seeing the Sailor's smile and thumbs-up, I knew they saw the smiley face where my license plate had once been and made my normal commute home. Upon arrival, I got off the bike and was startled to discover that the Lane Sharing Tool did not flip back closed automatically, as it was supposed to do, and I had made the entire commute with a hidden license plate and a big ol' smiley face prominently displayed! Fortunately, there was no law enforcement behind me that day and the electrical issue was quickly rectified. I still get a kick out of that gadget. Anything else you would like to share with our audience? I'm sure that 90 percent of the folks reading this are already Aerostich enthusiasts and know about the company's excellent customer service, quality products, and quirky sense of humor, but for those that aren't, you're in for a treat. Aerostich has enhanced my motorcycle lifestyle with their thoughtful, convenient, and long-lasting riding gear, plus truly great service and support. I'm looking forward to seeing what new products they develop [like the summertime mesh Falstaff ;) ].