Why I Ride: A Modern Motorcycle Odyssey
Manu Kumar
Experienced Product Manager/ Mentor, Long Distance Biker, Running enthusiast, Amateur Photographer
"Why do you ride?" - a question I often encounter, driven by curiosity, admiration, or disbelief. I wasn't always fascinated by motorcycles, but the unique rhythm of a Royal Enfield Bullet's engine captivated me. It wasn't about riding back then; it was about the allure of that machine.
My journey began at 20, in college, with my first bike. It wasn't the Bullet I dreamed of, but a practical choice for commuting, a gift from my mom hoping to shift my focus from cycling to studying.
The Dream Realized: My Own Bullet
At 25, well into my career and married, I finally bought my own Bullet Electra (350cc). This bike was different. It wasn't just a vehicle; it was a statement of freedom, a piece of history designed for long rides, as I would soon discover.
Our Inaugural Long Ride
The Bullet was more than a bike; it was a companion for adventure. Our first major ride was a test of endurance and passion: a 500km journey from Hyderabad to Nagpur. Starting late after a half-day's work, we reached our destination at night, navigating challenging roads that were a far cry from today's modern highways.
The Essence of Riding
On the road, I found solace. Riding for hours, lost in thought, leaving behind the daily grind of jobs and problems, it became a form of meditation. The improved highways have only made this experience better, safer, and more enjoyable.
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But it's not just about the road; it's about the connection with the world around you. Feeling the elements, facing challenges head-on, and navigating through nature's unpredictability is what makes riding special.
The Journey and the Destination
Traveling through various landscapes, meeting diverse people - from fellow travelers to locals at tea stalls and restaurants - is a reminder of life's simplicity. As a biker, exploring local attractions is effortless. It does require a degree of trust, leaving your bike and belongings with strangers, but it's a small price for the experiences gained.
The World's Kindness on the Road
When in need, I've found that people are inherently good. The world stops to help, and these moments often blossom into lifelong friendships. It's a reassurance that trust and kindness still prevail.
Riding as Life Education
Every ride is more than a journey; it's a life lesson. Unlike formal education, these experiences are unique and personal, offering knowledge and insights that only the road can teach.
Data scientist | Product & Strategy ??? | Writer | Toastmaster
10 个月As they say! Motorcycling ~ Poetry in motion. Good one Manu Kumar ??
Professional Services Leader | Passionate about customer experience, service quality and employee professional development | Critical thinker, not afraid to challenge status quo to drive improvement
10 个月Thanks Manu for sharing. I love this. We came across a large group recently on our trip in Morocco who were crossing the country on bikes. We learned a ton about beautiful people whose lives are very different than ours and at the time I thought it would be an even more personal experience to be touring the incredible scenery by bike.
Technology Executive and Investor
10 个月That was a fun read, Manu. Getting there on a bike is a very different experience, isn't it? Thanks for sharing!
Lead Talent Partner @ Fluxon | Quality Hiring, Expert in Technical Hiring(End-End)
11 个月Not a traveler, but your words made me read with excitement. Loved your articulation and felt your passion for biking. Thanks for sharing, Manu! Enjoy the rides, and all the best!
Integration Developer
11 个月I completely agree, long distance riding also induces a lot of abilities into our subconscious mind which we use without even realizing.