A Boy and His Bike

I have wanted a scooter for a long time. I had one during the summer of 1998 when I was in college. During this time I coached middle school track and field. This was perhaps the only job where driving up on a scooter would be impressive. To kids who wouldn't be driving for another two or three years, a scooter is a dream. But I sold it at the end of the summer because that is the kind of thing you do when you're in college. You buy a scooter, ride it for four months, and then sell it.

But I have always wanted a scooter. I never lusted after a motorcycle. The black leather and the Harley-Davidson weren't part of my upbringing. I didn't know anyone who rode a motorcycle. But a scooter. A scooter was something I could do. It was economical, environmental, safe.

But it just never worked out. Either we were spending our money on education or spending our time doing other things. My scooter and I did not cross paths.

But my flame of scooter-desire was rekindled last summer when my parents got scooters. My parents! If they can have one, then I could, nay, I must follow in their tire treads.

Caryn told me that when I got a job we could afford to buy one. I got the job. I searched craigslist daily. I debated and debated about how much to spend. We still didn't have lots of money. I debated about how much power the bike should have: under 50cc engine and it will save money because its a moped, but a 150cc scooter will be able to move with traffic better, but will need to be insured and I'll have to get my cycle endorsement. I loved the agony!

Then I found it. 1970 Honda CL70. Its a 70cc motorcycle that is 9 years older than I am. I'm still learning to ride it, but I have my learning permit and I'm circling around the parking lot near our house. I'm being safe (don't worry Mom). I have a helmet. And I'm going to take it to a shop and have someone look it over.

So, I guess what I'm trying to say is...I am a biker. Vroom!