Clarksville, Tn — All bikers know the feeling of getting ready for a road trip.  The anticipation is indescribable.  Whether you’ve been riding for years, or, like me, 16 months, the day and night before “launch” is wonderful.  I’m like a kid the night before Christmas.

Anticipation.

Many of my brothers and sisters of the open road have been doing this for so long, that they can prepare and pack in their sleep.  They’ve done this so many times, it’s almost impossible for them to forget something.

I still use a check list, just to make sure I don’t forget anything.  I’ve learned how to pack better, and how to get just a “little” more space out of my saddle bags.  To be leaner and meaner.  In the beginning, I was a mess.  Forgot some stuff, took stuff I didn’t need, but with every mile and every city, I learned.  It got better.

Anticipation.

When I first started riding, I owned a Street Glide Special.  Now I own a 2017 Harley Davidson Ultra-Limited, and the tour pack is a welcome addition.  But after my first trip on the new bike, I realized that I could STILL use more room.  Funny how that works.

I make sure I’ve got the clothes I need, for hot and cold weather, then I make sure I have all the personal items like toothpaste and such. I’ve gone back over my road map and made a note of some of the cities I’ll be passing through, and some of the landmarks I want to be sure and visit.  I’ve checked the weather maps and road conditions.

Anticipation.

I’m constantly asking other bikers about their travel habits.  How do they travel?  How do they prepare?  I am always learning and with each trip, I get better and better.  It’s difficult to describe the night before, but bikers get it.  The excitement makes it difficult to get to sleep, but once I do, it’s usually a very restful night.

Anticipation.

I married a wonderful woman and we brought two amazing kids into the world, and those were my favorite life moments.  But next to that, the feeling I get when I’m about to take to the open road, just me and God and miles of memories, is just the best thing ever.

Safe travels my friend.