Motorcycling has been a part of my life for over 25 years. Over time, it has become more than just a hobby – it’s a way of life. My journey as a motorcyclist hasn’t been a straight line, but rather a path shaped by time, life stages, and personal growth. This is the story of how riding became an inseparable part of my everyday existence.
In the beginning, it was all about freedom
Getting my motorcycle license in 1995 was a major milestone. It opened up an entirely new world for me. At first, I didn’t even own a bike – I rode borrowed ones. But that didn’t lessen the excitement. Riding felt liberating. The freedom of being on two wheels was something unique, something that couldn’t be felt in any other way. It was as if the whole world opened up, and the only thing to do was to hit the road, feel the wind on my face, and enjoy the motion.
A break from riding – when life takes a different route
As it often happens, motorcycling didn’t always take center stage. When my children were small, I took an unintentional break from riding. My time and energy were devoted to family life and everyday responsibilities. The bike stayed in the garage, and the roads were left behind for a while, but the feeling of riding never truly left me. It was just a pause, waiting for the right moment to return.
And that moment came when my kids grew up and I once again had more time for myself. In 2019, I bought my first motorcycle in years: a Suzuki GSX-F 750. The first rides felt like reuniting with a long-lost love. I quickly racked up 10,000 kilometers, but I started to realize that the bike no longer quite fit me. The riding position wasn’t ideal, and I found myself needing something more. Something that matched my riding style and expectations better.
A new chapter – the Kawasaki GTR 1400
Motorcycling had become more than a seasonal pastime; it had become a lifestyle. It was time to upgrade. So during the following winter, I traded in the Suzuki and brought home a Kawasaki GTR 1400. That decision turned out to be the right one in every way. The Kawasaki offered a better riding position, more power, and the comfort needed for long-distance riding.
I’ve had the bike ever since, and we’ve logged over 80,000 kilometers together so far. It’s been more than just a vehicle – it’s become a trusted partner on the road.
This was also the first bike I truly took care of myself. Before this, I had never attempted major maintenance work, but with the GTR 1400, I took that leap. During the winter, I carried out my first significant overhaul – something I’ve even written a separate article about on my blog. It brought me even closer to the bike. When you invest time and effort into maintaining it, the bike rewards you in return. That’s part of what living the motorcycling lifestyle means.
Motorcycling as a way of life
Motorcycling isn’t just a way to get from point A to point B. It’s become part of how I live. It’s not just a weekend hobby or an occasional summer activity. It’s woven into the rhythm of my life, bringing a sense of freedom and adventure to everyday moments. I maintain the bike, plan rides, and constantly look for new routes to explore.
For me, riding has become a way to clear my head, escape the daily grind, and experience the best parts of life. It’s therapeutic. Just the road, the bike, and me. Out there, everything else fades away.
Looking ahead – the journey continues
Motorcycling isn’t just for the young or adrenaline seekers. It’s for anyone, at any age, who craves freedom and discovery. As I look to the future, I know this passion doesn’t have to fade. There are still many roads I haven’t ridden, many places I want to see from the saddle of a motorcycle, and many moments left to experience in the spirit of freedom.
Motorcycling isn’t just a hobby. It’s a way of life. And as long as I’m able to ride, it will always be a part of me.
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