Hey there, fellow thrill-seekers and two-wheel enthusiasts! It’s your gal Kari, buckle up, because I’m about to spill the beans on how I stumbled into the wonderful world of motorcycles.

First off, let me introduce you to my inaugural love affair – the 2012 KTM 150 XC. This bad boy was like a two-stroke symphony in motion, and oh boy, did we have some wild times together. Now, I’ll be honest, it’s not the kind of bike your grandma would pick for her Sunday stroll, but who needs easy when you can have a challenge, right?

So, how did this love story begin? Well, blame it on a boyfriend who preferred parties and hockey over rock climbing (my passion at the time). In an epic plot twist, he suggested dirt bikes as our mutual hobby. Long story short, I took the plunge, bought the KTM, and guess what? He never did join the dirt biking adventure. His loss, my gain!

Photo from 2013,learning to ride in a field!

Now, picture this: a clueless Kari showing up at a Rocky Mountain Dirt Riders (RMDRA) club ride, looking like a lost puppy in a sea of seasoned riders. I couldn’t climb a hill if my life depended on it, and bump starting my bike on a downhill felt like attempting rocket science without a manual. It was embarrassing, to say the least.

But did I let that humiliation define me? Heck no! I hightailed it home, dusted off my ego, and hit the gravel roads of Bearspaw. Back and forth, up and down, I practiced clutch control, learned how to set up my bike, figured out how to bump start it.. all the good stuff. Shoutout to my patient buddy Andrew in Crowsnest Pass, who endured my learning curve every weekend.

Learning to ride was a hilarious saga of epic fails, but it taught me resilience. It took almost a year before I mustered the courage to face another club ride, and boy, did I show up with a vengeance.

Photo from 2020 on the Enduro Cross Track – Calgary

Now, let’s talk about why I’m addicted to the throttle life. Riding motorcycles is my escape from the chaos of work and city bustle. Whether it’s the woods, mountains, or the vast desert, the freedom is unparalleled. It’s my therapy, my happy place, my zen zone on two wheels. And let me tell you, I’ve earned my stripes in the motorcycle mayhem department. I’ve had my fair share of boo-boos, breaking my right leg not once, but twice, and my left ankle once. A few too many head whacks? You betcha. But heck, with all the bumps, bruises, and breaks, there’s a strange beauty in the chaos. It’s like a badge of honor, each scar telling a story of a wild ride and a lesson learned. So, despite the occasional tumble, I keep coming back for more. Because for every scrape and every scuff, there’s an exhilarating curve, a breathtaking view, and a camaraderie that’s second to none. It’s not just a hobby; it’s a way of life, and I wouldn’t trade it for anything in the world.

Some of my best memories in the last decade are from riding with buddies from, getting lost during races, going in the complete wrong direction, or gallivanting around in the woods for hours – these are the tales that make for great stories around the campfire. Because, let’s face it, it’s not always about the destination; it’s the adventure that counts.

And speaking of adventures, let me tell you about the incredible folks I’ve met along the way. The friends made in the world of motorcycles are like no other – a diverse bunch from all walks of life, bound together by the shared love of the riding. The camaraderie formed on those winding trails and dusty tracks is the glue that makes every misadventure and every triumph that much more memorable.

Picture this: camping trips under the stars, swapping stories around the fire pit, and engaging in shenanigans that would make a raccoon blush. These moments, the laughter echoing through the trees, the smell of the campfire, and the shared joy of conquering challenging terrains, have become the heart and soul of my motorcycle escapades.

To all you potential motorcycle enthusiasts out there, my advice is simple: just do it (like Nike says). You’re never too old, too out of shape, or too clueless to start. I mean, even my mom hopped on the dirt bike bandwagon at 60. So, who cares if you suck at first? We all did. Embrace the suckiness, because with every wipeout, you’re one step closer to becoming a badass on two wheels.

So, rev up those engines, grab life by the handlebars, and join me in the glorious world of motorcycles. Trust me; it’s a ride you won’t want to miss. And remember, the journey isn’t just about the twists and turns on the trail – it’s about the incredible people you meet, the friendships forged, and the unforgettable moments that become the fuel for your next great adventure. Ride on, my friends!

Ride on, Kari

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