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...Despite its reputation and the time of year, I was in Seattle for darn near 3 days and didn't see a drop of rain. I was on a
Harley crossing into Canada, where they could only dream of producing such a fine bike. No offense to the ‘cannucks’, as Vancouver is one of the most beautiful cities I have ever been to in my life. |
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| And while I wasn't on my Harley while heading into Ketchikan Harbor, I did ride it onto the ferry for my brief wave 'hello' to Alaska! And at just about at every single rest-stop, gas-stop or eating-stop I pulled into, I caught the glimpses of men, women & children who saw my bike, with the T-Bag strapped to the back, and could see the envious expressions on their faces. No other touring bike in the world attracts people like a Harley does. They wander over & admire the lines and the chrome. Many asked where I was headed, or how I felt about the rain. I loved to watch them when I told them where I was going. Every single time, their eyes widened and they would say something
like, "Wow!", or "Man, I wish I could do that!" As far as the rain goes, I always said the same
thing, "I'd take a rainy day on this bike over a sunny day in that car anytime." And the smile on my face let them know that truer words were never spoke. I knew that there would be lingering thoughts & daydreams left in the minds of many of these people as I pulled away. |
| Who knows, maybe I'm a 21st century Johnny Appleseed, planting dreams along the way. Maybe one of these people will expand their horizons like I did when I first bought mine. Because of my decision to buy a Harley a few years ago (after years of riding other bikes), I have met the most amazing, giving, and 'centered' people. They are the true definition of "Free Americans". Because of my bike, people want to talk to me, maybe it makes me more approachable? |
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| I met people on this trip who were genuinely friendly. I'd like to mention the folks at the dealership in Coos Bay OR. That is a top notch outfit there people, let me tell you. Very friendly & helpful staff, almost as nice as Mile-High! The Sales Manager, Joe Smith, was very helpful in suggesting places to stay, and
those to stay away
from. Thanks Joe! Shauleen was extremely patient & helpful in suggesting gift ideas (and very pleasing to the eye, I might add!). But they are at
heart, just Harley people. |
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People like Shannon, one of the owners of the 101 Camp
Bar & Grille on the "Big Nestucca River" in Cloverdale, Oregon. This is a biker-friendly little hideaway that is often used for Poker Run stops. Shannon kept me warm & happy with hot soup & cold beer on a needed break from the road & rain. |
| She was friendly and informative, even let me walk about the property to take pictures of the stream and horses just beyond the river. I highly recommend that you stop in here for a brew should you decide to take this trip. She gave me a wooden nickel which entitles me to a free beer upon my return. Say the word & I'll gladly give it to you if you go, just promise to say hello from
ol' Riz. |
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