The Lady Wore Black
Last night, I left work around 18:30. The sun had already set and I needed fuel. My FJR can go about 40 miles after the fuel light comes on. I had traveled 14. A mellow stop at Chevron and I was on my way. North on Cornelius Pass Rd to Skyline. I turned left on NW Newberry Rd (Map) and start my descent to Hwy 30. The road is a mix of left and right, with a few 10 mph corners throw in at odd moments. I have run wide once than once on the 2 tight right handers. Tonight, The Lady Wore Black by Queensryche fills my helmet. I’m going home after another day hacking away. There is still more to write, but I am comfortable with my accomplishments for the day. So, I am generally content as I lean into the series of switchbacks, right, left, right, left, right… When I drive this section, I tend to slide the rear end. On the bike, after dark, it feels so very different. The air is warming as I near the river. The ‘next’ curve is still unseen. I shift my shoulders, but rarely more off the saddle to pull a tighter line. Fluid and calm. Rather like the music in my head. After the final right-hander, I’m rewarded with a wonderful view of the city at night. Lights dot the port and the rolling city to the west. I love this city.
My dentist actually showed me this road, Newberry. He lives off of Skyline. I struggled to keep up with him the first time we attacked the road. The OEM tires on the FJR would push in corners. New tires and months of riding the road should even the odds the next time we pair up for another assault. His Super Sport Ducati should be able to drop me in a few corners, but the FJR has more power by at least 20% and probably has a smoother torque curve.
Once I hit Hwy 30, the ride was schizophrenic. I power wheelie through 3rd gear as I try to merge in with the fast moving traffic. Minivans and BMWs. Go figure. I can’t help but think about a Hypermoto S. I keep daydreaming of having a smaller bike to commute on, not that the 1200cc motor on the Ducati is actually smaller. The FJR is a 1300. The Ducati is physically smaller, lacking a fairing, saddlebags, top case, and all the rest that makes the FJR such a wonderful touring bike. Still, I lust for that Ducati growl and the stripped down, yet over the top nature of a hypermoto-style bike. I have grown to love the roar of her S2R. It doesn’t physically fit me, but that Monster is a really cool bike. Brembos, V-twin with a race kit. Nice. My mind returns to the present as the surging pack slows and we hit the 35 mph zone for Linnton. From Linnton, the ride is fairly mellow and solitary.
Home.
I see soft, flickering lights as I walk toward the front door. My lover has lit candles to welcome my return.
Home…
