Photo from the way back when machine, on  the old man’s Suzuki GS750

Family, of course, played its part in this two-wheel saga. Uncle Rob’s Yamaha XS1100 with Super Traps wasn’t just a bike; it was a rockstar on wheels. And let’s not skip over the challenges of finding dirt biking pals with the same schedule and riding style. It was like trying to find a needle in a haystack until fate intervened, and I met Kari – my partner in off-road shenanigans.

High school and post-driving years came with a trusty dirtbike as my constant companion. Whether it was joining buddies in their trucks, witnessing them get stuck in every imaginable hole (cue laughter), or going solo for a day of personal challenges – I always found ways to keep things interesting, no matter the terrain.

Uncle Rob’s Yamaha XS1100 with Super Traps – The coolest bike!

Fast forward to the COVID era, where Kari and I loaded our bikes into the truck, cranked up the tunes, and set off from Revelstoke to Kamloops. Meeting up with friends, we dove deep into the BC mountains for some summer dirt biking thrills. But, hold onto your helmets, this ride took a hilarious turn when we found ourselves knee-deep in a single track with no cell reception or GPS.

The plot thickened as friends, Warren and Mindy, with two kids in tow, decided to join our joyride. But, surprise surprise, a few twists and turns later, Mindy had a spiral fractured femur. Cue the panic, the epic realization that we were as prepared as a cat at a dog show.

In true biker fashion, we rallied together, hatched a plan, and got Mindy out of the bush and back to Kamloops hospital before the sun threw in the towel. Lesson learned: when hitting the trails, be as prepared as a boy scout at a jamboree, especially in the unpredictable BC mountains.

And to you newbies eyeing those cool biker looks, here’s a tip from the school of hard knocks – function beats fashion every time. That beanie helmet might look cool, but it’s more of a parachute than protection. That pleather “biker style” jacket won’t shield you from the elements, and those “over the boot” pants? Let’s just say, I upgraded to “in the boot” after one too many clumsy falls.

 In a nutshell, my motorcycle journey went from crazy speed to a chill appreciation for the ride. The Ninja still gets its kicks, reminding me to respect cold pavement, but these days, it’s more about enjoying the scenery than trying to break land speed records.

 So, to all you road warriors out there, laugh off those fashion blunders, and remember – it’s not just a ride; it’s a Jager joyride. Stay safe, keep the rubber side down, and may the wind be your best buddy on the road! Ride on, my friends!

– Jager

15 Year old me at the Flat Track

WHATS IN MY GARAGE