In this episode of Peace Love Moto, we dive deep into the eternal tension between the joy of motorcycling and the risks that come with it. Host Ron shares real-life stories, hard-earned wisdom, and heartfelt reflections on what it means to ride with mindfulness, purpose, and protection. From dealing with concerned friends and family to navigating the unpredictable nature of the open road, this episode explores how riders can embrace safety without sacrificing the soul of the ride. We cover everything from proper gear, road awareness, animal hazards in the Rockies, to the mental discipline it takes to ride smart. If you love motorcycling and want to keep riding for years to come, this is your reminder to ride with gratitude—and gear up with intention.

Keywords: motorcycle safety tips, mindful motorcycling, riding gear, motorcycle risk vs reward, safe riding mindset, motorcycling in Colorado, why wear a helmet, Rocky Mountain rides, motorcycle road hazards, Peace Love Moto podcast

Have you ever noticed how anxiety seems to disappear the moment you throw your leg over your motorcycle? There's something almost magical about the way riding cuts through mental noise, bringing us back to a state of presence that's increasingly rare in our notification-saturated world.

This episode explores the profound connection between motorcycle riding and mental wellness, inspired by the timeless wisdom in Bob Marley's "Three Little Birds." We dive into why riding works as natural anxiety therapy—how the full-body engagement, sensory experience, and mandatory presence required to ride safely creates a unique form of mindfulness unlike anything else. When you're scanning the road, feeling the lean of your bike, and moving with the rhythm of the pavement, anxiety has no choice but to take a back seat.

The motorcycle community offers another dimension of healing. Riders share their stories of finding connection and acceptance when social anxiety would otherwise keep them isolated. There's something about meeting fellow motorcyclists that strips away pretense, allowing for authentic connections based on shared experiences rather than social performance. As one rider put it, "When I'm riding with others, I'm in my own space together with them"—a beautiful paradox that creates safety for even the most socially anxious among us.

Perhaps most importantly, motorcycling teaches us the art of letting go. On the road, we quickly learn that control is an illusion—weather changes, road conditions surprise us, and all we can truly manage is our response. This practical experience of handling uncertainty while maintaining composure builds resilience that extends far beyond our time in the saddle. Just as Bob Marley reminds us, "Don't worry about a thing, 'cause every little thing's gonna be alright," riding helps us embody this truth in a visceral way. If you're struggling with anxiety, maybe the answer isn't more worry—maybe it's more riding. Take a deep breath, hit the road, and discover the peace that awaits when you trade anxiety for adventure.

The video:  https://youtu.be/BXlzxDl32ic?si=1a-b_sDnsZjyfpHd

That deep connection between rider and machine isn't just sentimentality—it's at the heart of Robert Persig's philosophical masterpiece, "Zen and the Art of Motorcycle Maintenance."

Today we're winding through the philosophical landscapes of Persig's influential work, exploring what it means to truly engage with our motorcycles and, by extension, with life itself. When we're cruising at 70mph and it suddenly feels like we're perfectly still while the world moves around us—that's Peace. That's presence. That moment when time disappears as you work on your bike late into the night, completely absorbed in the task—that's mindfulness.

Persig suggests we can look at motorcycles (and life) in two ways: as fragmented collections of parts or as unified living systems. This perspective shapes everything—how we maintain our bikes, how we approach problems, and how we find harmony in a world that feels increasingly disconnected. We explore "gumption traps"—those frustrations like stripped screws or self-doubt that drain our enthusiasm—and the practices that restore our energy and focus. At its core, motorcycling offers us a path to that elusive peace of mind we're all searching for, if we approach the journey with awareness and care.

Ready to find your zen on two wheels? 

In this soul-searching episode of Peace Love Moto, we will explore the powerful connection between Bob Seger's 1982 anthem Roll Me Away and the spirit of motorcycling. More than just a classic 1980's rock ballad, this song has become a guiding light for some riders—and anyone at a crossroads—searching for meaning, direction, and freedom.

Whether you're facing uncertainty in life, standing at a metaphorical fork in the road, or just longing to ride toward something more, listen as we break down the emotional depth of Seger's lyrics and how they mirror the transformative journey of motorcycle riders just like you and me.

Motorcycles serve as more than machines—they become moving sanctuaries for clarity, healing, and growth. Discover why “rolling away” isn’t about running from life but about embracing the unknown to rediscover yourself.

Remember when you first started your motorcycle and felt that sense of freedom wash over you? It's a feeling that connects surprisingly well with the wisdom coming from America's heartland. This episode explores the unexpected parallels between the farmer's way of life and the motorcyclist's journey, revealing how both share a profound relationship with machinery, nature, and community.

Growing up visiting my grandparents' farm gave me perspective that shapes my riding today. At just 10 years old, my grandfather taught me to drive a 1966 Chevrolet C10 pickup with simple instructions: "don't run over anything." That early lesson in machinery and responsibility mirrors what we experience as riders - respecting our motorcycles, maintaining them properly, and understanding their importance to our freedom.

Farmers face the unpredictability of Mother Nature every day, with their livelihoods dependent on weather patterns beyond their control. Similarly, as motorcyclists, we confront changing road conditions, unexpected storms, and mechanical challenges that require adaptability and composure. Both farmers and riders develop a special relationship with the outdoors - experiencing the world through all senses rather than through screens.

The wisdom from the fields applies perfectly to the open road: respect your machine, embrace the journey, adapt when necessary, and value the community around you. While most of us aren't rising at dawn to milk cows or harvest crops, we can learn from the farmer's steady resilience and passion. When was the last time you appreciated your motorcycle as not just transportation but as a dream fulfilled - your own personal connection to freedom and the natural world?

Motorcycling offers more than escape—it provides a path to mindfulness and purpose through our interactions with others on the road. George Bernard Shaw's century-old wisdom about living for something greater than ourselves perfectly captures the spirit of what it means to ride with intention and community consciousness.

A simple wave or nod to a driver who makes a mistake can transform how all motorcyclists are perceived.  Kind interactions with drivers may make them more likely to watch for and respect motorcyclists in the future.  The Distinguished Gentleman's Ride exemplifies how our passion for motorcycling can support important causes.  Shaw's quote reminds us not to be "a feverish, selfish little clod of ailments and grievances" but to live with purpose.  Motorcycling forces us to be present, letting everyday grievances fade away.  The community of motorcycling creates a brotherhood/sisterhood united by our love of riding.  Like the song "This Little Light of Mine," we're called to shine brightly and make a difference through our riding.

Riding with a Local is just better.  Until we can ride together, I will share with you pro-tips for escaping the tourist crowds, finding traffic-free roads for the most spectacular experience riding the Colorado Rocky Mountains and where to find the best coffeeshops, burgers, and cherry pies!

The powerful connection motorcyclists share with Mother Nature defines our riding experience in profound ways most travelers never understand. When we throw a leg over our bikes, we enter into a relationship with forces larger than ourselves—sometimes gentle, sometimes fierce, but always present.

Learning to ride a motorcycle, especially as an adult, is a very bold move.  Some of us learned to ride small motorcycles as kids.  Slow bikes as low to the ground and underpowered as we were.  But learning to ride as an adult, well, that’s a whole different motivation.  It begs the question, why are they choosing to learn to ride? 

What happens when the icy roads of winter threaten the freedom and joy that come with motorcycling? Join me as we explore the impact of Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) on motorcycle riders and we share solutions for getting through the Wintertime Blues.  Listen also for a heartfelt nod to the wisdom of the Beatles.  

Imagine a world where the sound of an engine is a call to mindfulness and connection. That's precisely the journey we embarked on with Ben Rubin, affectionately known as "The Mindful Motorcycle" on Instagram. Ben reveals how a thoughtful gift from his partner led to his passion for motorcycling, transforming it into a path of personal growth and mindful living. The bonds formed within the motorcycle community are anything but ordinary.  They are a testament to the unspoken understanding that exists among riders who share the open road.

Comfortable long rides are key to enjoying the journey and finding the ever elusive Peace of Mind we seek. This episode covers how to select the right gear, the importance of hydration, and maintaining a positive mindset while riding.

Sometimes it feels like contrasting realities.  For some, their world view is driven by negative social media, but we can find hope in our positive motorcycling community.  Want to know how?  Just look around.

Neile Bayly turned his thirst for adventure by motorcycle into a powerful vehicle for spreading peace, love, and compassion across the war-torn Ukraine, Peru, and the World. From the early influences of literature like "Jupiter's Travels" to becoming a voice for global connections, Neile's story is a testament to the transformative power of following your passions.  You can help!  Checkout Neale's organization, Wellspring Outreach.  https://wellspring-outreach.org

Have you ever stumbled upon a hidden family treasure? Join us as we hear the heartwarming story of Paul Kraus and his father's 1947 Whizzer motorbike that sparked a restoration journey that revived a priceless piece of history.  As Paul shares his experiences with the Colorado Vintage Motorcycle Group, you'll hear about the vibrant camaraderie and passion that these classic machines inspire.

Today we're diving deep into the heart of why we ride – finding that elusive "ride happy" feeling, which if we’re lucky, takes us to a whole other level of happiness.  The all elusive Peace of Mind.  

While we frequently discuss the Peace of Mind many of us find from the seat of a motorcycle, what if that's no longer an option?  After a devastating accident, Hunter Matthews could have given up, but he hasn't.  Instead, he encourages us to explore alternative paths to inner peace and fulfillment while he maintains found memories of his riding days.  It's a power reminder about gratitude and seizing life’s opportunities.  Prepare to be inspired.

Now for the conclusion of my two part conversation with Kiki Azim and Kirsten Midura.  In our previous episode #80, you could hear it in their voices.  A passion for empowering our motorcycling community to find peace of mind by demonstrating a love for others.  The poor, the innocent, those who believe that no one cares for them.

So how do you demonstrate a love for others?  Volunteer, donate or both!  You’re blessed with the opportunity to find joy riding your motorcycle. Now you can bring that joy to others who really need it.  Click the links in the show notes for details or feel free to email me at ron@peacelovemoto.com for specific information.

You can help!  Make your tax-deductible donation TODAY!

Engines for Change:  https://www.enginesforchange.org/
Rebels with a Cause:  https://www.rebelstour.com/
Rebels donations:  https://givebutter.com/E4C-Rebels-With-A-Cause

Today, we hear part 1 of my fascinating conversation with Kiki Azim and Kirsten Midura.  Two friends with a common heart.  A common love for motorcycling and a shared passion for healing a hurting world.  People like them have changed the world!  You can too!

You can help!  Make your tax-deductible donation TODAY!

Engines for Change:  https://www.enginesforchange.org/

Rebels with a Cause:  https://www.rebelstour.com/

Rebels donations:  https://givebutter.com/E4C-Rebels-With-A-Cause

I just said "hello".  He followed me on his new motorcycle into the mountains then down into the valley to my favorite coffee shop.  What he told me there left me speechless.

Have you ever felt the  need to just turn off the world for a while, get out of the house, get out on your motorcycle, to find yourself out on a lonely road and just ride?   I believe that sometimes a ride like that can transform itself into a chance encounter.  Like the stars were aligned for something special, something meaningful to happen.  It happened to me.  I’d like to tell you about it. 

Have you ever found yourself in a Flow State?  When we’ve been riding for a while, then time stands still.  No thought required.  Ah… nice.  It’s good to find the Zone.  Maybe that’s a glimpse of Heaven.  So how do we find it on our next ride?

I can’t always find the words to express how meaningful riding is to me and for so many of us around the world.  But others have very effectively found those words.  One such person is Melissa Holbrook Pierson from her 1997 book, The Perfect Vehicle.  So today, we will hear passages from the most eloquent Forward that I’ve ever heard.  Relax, pour yourself a favorite coffee or tea, take a couple of deep slow breaths, and listen to these poetic words that describe our beautiful world of motorcycling.

https://www.melissaholbrookpierson.com/the-perfect-vehicle

Sometimes our motorcycle rides are fast paced. Yes, that’s fun, but a fast paced life?  That’s not so fun.  It can be high-risk and destructive.  There are ways of building some cushion of safety, both in motorcycling and in life. Creating some “ Margin" as they call it.  We need to know when to adjust the load, when to slow down, when to make a change, when to rest, before something happens that could impact our ability to ride.  This is important stuff. 

Perhaps our hope is that we will be just like George Bailey at the end of the movie “It’s a Wonderful Life”. By having a motorcycle. the ability to ride to ride it and the many friends and family who love us, we will recognize how very blessed you are right now.  We’ll be reminded that yeah, we are having a Wonderful Life.

Brady McLean, the founder of Go Fast Don’t Die, has a story to share.  Yeah, that’s a cool slogan and he loves motorcycling, but you’ll learn that there’s much more to Brady than business and bikes.  He knows a lot about living a full life.  Honestly, I just felt lucky to be in a conversation with a guy like him.  Get ready for a transformative conversation.

Kim Casares is an amazing motorcycle rider who pushed the limits of courage and strength to reach her goal of riding a motorcycle to the Base Camp of Mount Everest.  Here is my interview with my new friend, a true Motorcycle Adventurer.

Go out there, ride, gain strength, be happy, and share that strength and your inner joy with someone else.  Be a Hero.  You ask "What are you talking about, Ron"???   Oh, have I got a story for you!

Motorcycling.  It’s transportation and a cool means for travel, but if you’re like me, it’s the same play that I experienced in my childhood.  When we go out for a ride, we go out to play, sometimes alone and sometimes with our friends, and that’s a beautiful thing.  What a gift to be able to do that!

Today, we take a few minutes just to relax and we do that by reading passages from a little book that not only takes us on our motorcycles down the road, but it also reminds us why we have such a desire to be on the road in the first place.  Published in 2013 and edited by Malcolm Nelson and Kristen Lassen, it’s called The Little Black Book of Motorcycle Wisdom.

The Little Black Book of Motorcycle Wisdom

I hear it often, even from motorcycle riders traveling on vacation.   I often hear it as I meet vacationers in the National Park.  If people tell me that they are leaving for home the next day, they often say “We have to go back to reality”.   Maybe, they’ve got it all wrong.  Maybe they have it backwards.  Perhaps they have been in reality all along.

There is value in understanding that we don’t have to be perfect.  With each new ride, we have the opportunity to become a better rider and during that process, let’s just be satisfied with the fact that we’ve found something that we love.  

Join us for an unforgettable motorcycle journey North over the famed BearTooth Highway in Montana!  A great place to get high, naturally!

I’ll never forget our group ride here in Colorado and the smile on my friend's face.  He rented his dream motorcycle from EagleRider, a business that is led by a motorcycle rider who also cares about people.  My friend's smile means mission accomplished.

I'm excited to visit today with the CEO of EagleRider, Sebastian Schoepe!

Learn more at:  EagleRider.com

Many of our motorcycle rides are just circles.  Some 5 mile loops others 500 miles, but usually we start from home and return home.  Why do we do the same thing over and over again?  Well, we riders know why.  Yes, crazy can be fun!

I’m excited to share with you an unedited conversation with my friend Andreas Metzger.  Andreas and his wife Lisa joined me for a long Saturday ride through arguably the most beautiful spaces on Earth here in Northern Colorado and Southern Wyoming.  I gave Andreas no prep time.  I just handed him a clip-on microphone and told him “OK buddy, let’s talk”.

Today we replay what I feel is maybe one of the more important episodes thus far.  It’s one about forgiveness.  It’s about compassion.  It’s about showing love for a stranger.  It’s about a wrong assumption about a driver who almost killed you.

Are you looking for a community?  A sense of belonging?  Well, you already have your membership card.  It’s the motorcycle you ride!  It’s the jacket you’re wearing.  It’s the helmet you carry into the coffee shop.  You’re in!  You are a part of a growing community of motorcycling riders.  How great is that?  

Here in Colorado, most afternoons or evenings, a rainstorm will likely come through.  I saw on the weather radar that 30 miles from my home, there was a storm brewing.  So, for you, for my listening audience, I prepared for my ride, I confirmed that I had all of my rain gear, hopped on my Triumph Bonneville, and rode through the storm.  Such is life.  

About 50 miles northwest from my home in Loveland, Colorado and two places where I find myself quite often.  Following Highway 287 in vast, wide open spaces, just before the Colorado & Wyoming border we fina a place called Virginia Dale.  Here are two very different places of worship.  Each with it's own methods for a common goal.  A great place to ride, to stop, to take a seat and to listen.

My hope for this short episode is that you can ride your motorcycle to your own place of Serenity.  To stop, relax, take in the scenery, and know that, at least for that moment, you are the luckiest guy or gal in the world, and all is well with your world.

Serenity Coffee, Riverside, Wyoming

Music by:

Gary Schmidt Music

William_King and Olexy from Pixabay

It was two days after my motorcycle broke down in the Nevada Desert that I made the recording.  It’s actually a video where I described how everything was going great, until it wasn’t going so great.  Most importantly, I shared my feelings at that moment.  Not a feeling of despair, or disappointment that my motorcycle journey had ended so abruptly.  Instead, it was about feelings of overwhelming gratitude.  Gratitude for a world just full of people who will help a stranger in need.  This time, I was that stranger and I was in need.  

In today’s episode, I’ll share with you the raw, unedited audit that I captured that day back in the Nevada Desert to where my bike broke down.  My hope is that you’ll hear it in my voice, the gratitude that I felt toward so many good people, who came to my physical and emotional rescue.

A trip of a lifetime.  How often have you experienced that?  Today, we travel to New England and visit with Pat, Greg and Scott from Moto-Cyco Touring Adventures.  I so enjoyed talking with these guys about the amazing motorcycle tours that they offer.  Now I have an addition to my personal touring bucket list.  You may too!

https://www.moto-cyco.com/

ride@moto-cyco.com

978.417.9930

The Sheriff's Officer said that her name is Laura and that he would try to keep an eye on her.  But unless she broke the law or got hurt, I think there was little he could do.

My intent for today’s episode was to celebrate the great success of this past Sunday’s Distinguished Gentleman’s Ride.  It was fabulous, but I feel the need to share with you the experience that I had out in the country on my motorcycle.  I saw Laura.

On Sunday, May 19th, 2024, I’ll see love in this world.  I’ll feel it.  And so will over 100,000 motorcycle riders.  On Sunday morning, literally around the world, there will be a Global hug.  An expression of love for those we know and also a love for total strangers.  Maybe you’ll even feel it from wherever you are.  A warmth from human connections.  Hearts beating together.  Am I being a bit over-dramatic?  No, I don’t think so.  I’ve seen it first hand.  I’ve felt it.  It’s real. 

“Windows of Opportunity”.  We assume that there'll always be time for this or that until there is no time left.  Whether it’s planning our next motorcycle journeys or sharing a coffee with an old friend, in today’s episode, let’s share some ideas for making every Window of Opportunity count.  Today's quote is from Ben Giese from Vanha Magazine.   

Miguel Oliveira is amazing and so is MotoGP in which he competes.  Today I share my experience attending the 2024 MotoGP races at the Circuit of the Americas with my longtime friend, Kent.  We talk about the bikes, the riders, their families and our own.  

Jeff Johnson said "I’m drawn to open country.  It’s where everything becomes clear.  It’s where the world makes the most sense.  When I put myself out there, I always return with something new.  The best journeys are those that answer questions that in the beginning, you never thought to ask". (2010 - 180 Degrees South)

Whether it’s imagining yourself as a cowboy, or some kind of adventurer, riding a motorcycle takes us to a new space and time.  It’s hard to explain, isn't it.  As for me, out on the lonely dirt roads up in the mountains, often standing on the pegs and riding slowly, yep, I’m a cowboy.  

Just like Jeff Johnson said in that movie, I too am drawn to open country.  Out there, the world does seem to make the most sense.  

Life is not about waiting for the storms to pass: it’s about learning how to ride in the rain! We have to ride with some degree of confidence that all will go ok in the end.  If we were scared all the time, well, we’d probably just sell the bike and switch to pickleball.  Nothing against pickleball, but as for quitting? We won’t do that.  

We love motorcycling too much.  It means too much to our heart and soul.  We accept the fact that we don’t have 100% control in motorcycling, or in life for that matter.  And that’s OK.  Maybe that’s the best part! 

Courageous people.  People who step out when others won’t.  Those are people that we call heros.  I had heard about such a person.  And when I learned that she also has a passion for motorcycling, well that’s someone I really wanted to talk with.

Kirsten Midura is a change agent in the environmental and social good spaces.  Professionally, Kirsten is a career consultant in sustainability, renewable energy, and marine conservation, with experience in nonprofit, corporate, and startup environments.

In her spare time, Kirsten runs Engines for Change, a nonprofit that uses motorcycles as tools for environmental and social good. She is an avid motorcyclist, diver, sailor, writer, filmmaker, photographer, and community-builder. The common thread? Everything she does is driven by a cause.

I’m excited today to share with you my conversation with a true hero.  Kirsten Midura.

Kirsten's Website: https://kirstenmidura.com/

The Peace Love Moto podcast is a proud supporter of Engines for Change - https://www.enginesforchange.org/

See all of the opportunities to contribute in the Episode 49 Transcript notes at:  https://www.peacelovemoto.com/

The"Biker Wave" with the left hand comes in several forms ya know, but to me it means just one thing.  It means that you care.  And that is what the Peace Love Moto podcast is all about.  It’s about spreading the good news that riders do care for that total stranger who’s also out on two wheels.  You may be out on a solo ride, in the middle of nowhere, but just about guaranteed, if another motorcycle rider is coming your way, you’ll see a wave.   And once you see that wave, and you respond back, then yes, you've got a friend.

Some folks say that you can never go back in time.  But I think we can.  As a child on my first motorcycle, I was moving through the air with a motor and two wheels under me.  Wandering from place to place with just the sound of the bike and the open road ahead of me.  

You and I can do that now!  Why not go back in your mind to a wonderful place and time.  Your happy place.  Your Luckenbach, Texas where there "Ain't nobody feelin' no pain".  On your next ride, go there!  So will I.

I had to learn to be quiet.  Because that’s when Mother Nature can speak to you.   In today's episode, we talk about riding East to the plains of Nebraska, meeting a rancher with an amazing story, and then experiences with quoting from James Taylor in Rocky Mountain National Park.  Motorcycles are a perfect transport into a conversation with your mother.  Mother Nature.

I could hear those motorcycles coming my direction.  They had to be going fast!  Echoing down through the canyon on that steep dirt road.  There’s no guard rails up there!  Slide off the road and you're a goner.  Coming my way.  Coming really fast!  Those engines screaming.  Two KTM’s roared up and parked near my bike, right next to the outdoor table where I was having breakfast up there in that mountain village.  2 matching KTM 500 Enduros.  The riders, also in matching KTM off-road racing gear.  Klim adventure helmets as I recall, neck braces, KTM jerseys, enduro pants and boots.  Oh yes, these two were pros.  They knew how to ride. 

And the shock that ran threw me when they pulled their helmets off….?  Wow, you’ve got to be kidding me!!!    Ha ha, I’ll tell ya about it.

We’ve just got to slow down sometimes, now more than ever.  No, I’m not warning against riding fast, I’m referring to the speeds that our brains and emotions are built for.  With 24*7 news cycle, constant social media updates, work stress.  Now we’ve got Artificial Intelligence creating more and more content out there to absorb, like Youtube videos that are clearly not narrated by humans, and much of the content is either inaccurate or at best misleading I think.  We can’t keep going at that pace and keep our sanity anyway.  

Fast all the time is not good for us.  I firmly believe that.  We’re not made for that.  So when we’re on our bikes, just pick a place sometimes and stop.  Turn off the bike.  Be quiet.  Look around.  That’s hard, but I’m convinced that it’s worth it.  Let’s talk about it.  Thank you for joining me today!

What music do you hear in your head when you ride?  The Doobie Brothers?  Pearl Jam? John Denver?  The Mormon Tabernacle Choir?

For me, it’s any one of those music styles, playing over and over in my head as I ride, but for yesterday’s ride, about a 300 miler, the song in my head changed multiple times.  I didn’t have a plan for this ride, but I felt compelled to ride for a few hours, out into the open spaces.  Yesterday, I needed the road time.  Maybe to un-clutter my head.  And guess what?  It worked.

My grandmother was Nettie Mae.  That’s a beautiful name, isn’t it.  A little lady, full of spirit.  I remember when I was a kid, 10 or 11 years old, going fishing with her way out in the country near Blue Ridge, Texas.  She drove my cousin and I in an old pickup truck out to the fields where our grandfather was working, usually driving a tractor.

I didn’t realize that what I was experiencing was a picture perfect moment.  Maybe we as motorcycle riders need to keep our eyes open for those picture perfect moments, because we probably are exposed to those with every ride.

Music by:

Brett Wilson:  https://www.mountainzenden.com/

Pixabay Artists:

Vitalii Korol , Sergii Pavkin, Alexi Action, James Milor

Are you planning a motorcycle trip to Colorado?  Maybe visiting the Rocky Mountain National Park region?  Oh, we need to talk.  Ha ha.  This is my 25th year of living and motorcycling all around Northern Colorado. This is a great place to ride!   As a tour guide in the National Park, spending a lot of time up in the mountains, I have gotten to know of those really special places that are not in the guidebooks and I love sharing the info with you!  

You and I know that when you take a trip by motorcycle, the real fun of your vacation begins not when you’ve reached your destination, but it begins as soon as you back you motorcycle out of the garage.  We are so lucky as riders that the fun begins right away.  That’s what you’ll find as you ride to these destinations that I’ll be describing, cool places that are a whole lot of fun to ride to and these places are relatively unknown, and I don’t know why.

Be ready to take some notes because today I’m sharing with you some of my favorite hidden cafes, porches, coffee shops and maybe a couple of surprises, all to be found here in the Rocky Mountains of Colorado.  Thank you for joining me today!

Music by:

Brett Wilson:  https://www.mountainzenden.com/

Pixabay Artists:

Vitalii Korol , Sergii Pavkin, Alexi Action, James Milor

Late November and that means it’s Thanksgiving holiday here in the US.  Hard to believe that 2023 is beginning to reach its close.  It’s been snowing the past couple of days here in Loveland, Colorado.  Time to browse through our motorcycling magazine and plan for rides on those nice days coming up.  

Yeah we do have a lot to be thankful don’t we.  This motorcycling thing that we’re so crazy about, what a gift. Maybe now it’s good timing to reflect back on some stories and interviews we’ve shared these past weeks.  

Seems that it wasn’t that long ago that we reflected back on the first 20 episodes, starting with breakfast with a stranger on Route 66.  I had no idea.  No idea, that conversation in Gallop, New Mexico would turn as it did.  I’ll never forget that man.  That was Episode 1. 

So if this podcast is new to you, maybe start with Episode 20 to hear summaries of the first 19.  But for today, let’s talk briefly about where we’ve been starting with Episode 21.  Thank you for joining me today!

Music by:

Brett Wilson:  https://www.mountainzenden.com/

Pixabay Artists: William_King Aleksey ChistilinHoene MikeJames Milor

Young riders pick a destination and go.  Old riders pick a direction and go.  That's good. I get it. 

Henry David Thoreau talked it way back in the 1860s, this idea of wandering.  As motorcycle riders, we have the freedom to wander aimlessly, and nobody’s going to question us about it.  Some of us feel compelled to do that as we ride.

We don't always have to be going from point A to point B. We don’t always need to be accomplishing something.  What we do need is peace of mind, freedom of both mind and body.  Wandering around without a specific destination in mind can be amazing.

Where will your motorcycle take you? Let’s talk about it. Thank you for joining me today!

Music by:

Brett Wilson:  https://www.mountainzenden.com/

Pixabay Artists:

Hoene Mike

Yurii Kushch

Juan Sanchez

Vitaliy Levkin

Zakhar Valaha

Image By:

 Joe from Pixabay

There are lots and lots of things we love about motorcycling and for me, an overarching thing that I most appreciate.  Motorcycling is real.  There’s no Virtual Reality.  There’s no AI.  Nothing Artificial going on here.  For those of us fortunate to have a motorcycle in the garage and the ability to ride it, …. Wow, we are just so lucky!  I think that riding is not so much an escape from reality.  Riding motorcycles returns us to reality.  And for that, we can be very grateful.

Music by:

Gary Schmidt: https://www.garyschmidtmusic.com/

Brett Wilson:  https://www.mountainzenden.com/

https://incompetech.com/music/royalty-free/music.html

It was there, boarding our motorcycles onto the ferry, that the fellow next to me pulled off his jacket to reveal a t-shirt that not only caught me by surprise, but made me laugh.  We struck up a conversation right away.  His black t-shirt had a simple slogan on it that said “Go Fast, Don’t Die”.  Oh, now that’s genius!  I get it!  I’m sure that statement could be interpreted in many ways, but for me it means, do what you can, while you can.  I guess, live life to the fullest.  Mindfulness helps!  Do what makes you happy.

I love the feedback and want to hear from you!  Here’s my request.  Send me an email:  ron@peacelovemoto.com.    Thank you!

Go Fast Don't Die

https://www.gofastdontdie.com/

Keanu Reeves quote:
https://youtube.com/shorts/-4fwQ10BCdY?si=p7q_E6xbYXmSmh-6

Music by:

Gary Schmidt: https://www.garyschmidtmusic.com/

Brett Wilson:  https://www.mountainzenden.com/

Oleg Kirilkov from Pixabay

Sergii Pavkin from Pixabay

Vitalii Korol from Pixabay

I had stopped for lunch in a tiny mountain town here in Colorado when he rode up on this unbelievable motorcycle.  I know that my first word to Charlie was “Wow”, followed by “What kind of motorcycle is that”? 

He briefly described how this bike was handcrafted in Indiana with some of the fabrication done by the local Amish community.  Yes, you heard right.  The same Amish folks that you see using buggies pulled by horse for transportation.  You talk about a beautiful, well made machine!

I had to get to know this guy and beg for a chance to ride his Janus Motorcycle.  That’s spelled Janus.  A bike like I’ve never seen outside of a history book.  Not only did I get to spend an afternoon riding with Charlie high up in the mountains, he let me ride it!  Oh, that was cool!!!

I’m so excited today to share with you an interview with my new friend, Charlie Hansen-Reed, Design Engineer with Janus Motorcycles in Goshen, Indiana.  This was a fun conversation.

Contact Mitch, Charlie and the crew at Janus Motorcycles at:
(574) 538-1350
https://janusmotorcycles.com/

Do you know what I love about riding motorcycles with friends?  Everything!  As the old Christmas carol goes, “Oh what fun it is to ride” and so it was just this morning, riding with two great friends through the twisty mountain roads here in Colorado, reaching our destination which was the Howling Cow Cafe at the Morning Fresh Dairy in Bellview, Colorado.

Today we continue with Part 2 of my conversation with Doug Logston of the Motorcycle Sport Touring Association.  And yes, Doug was one of the two guys I rode with this morning.  If you’re wondering “Is Doug a good motorcycle rider”.  Yes, yes he is.  Doug is very good!

As I have described in previous episodes, a large credit for the idea for this podcast, Peace Love Moto, is due to the Distinguished Gentleman’s Ride, an international fundraiser for men’s health issues focused on prostate cancer research and suicide prevention.  

I described how this event is attended by men and women, all dressed up in dapper outfits, all with the common heart for raising money and awareness for these important issues that impact thousands of men throughout the world. 

I also mentioned that this past year, I was honored to be the host of the Distinguished Gentleman’s Ride event in Fort Collins, Colorado.  I met people with hearts the size of our Colorado Mountains.  One such person, is our guest today.

Not only was Doug Logston the first place fund raiser for our Fort Collins event, I also learned that Doug is one fascinating guy, including being the State Director for the Motorcycle Sport Touring Association!  It’s such a joy to present to you my interview with my new friend, Doug Logston.

Melissa and Brett Wilson described how it’s about gratitude, it’s about appreciation for our ability to ride because of how much you love it!  Today, we continue with Part 2 of our conversation with Brett and Melissa as we find ourselves amazed by the parallels between motorcycling and horseback riding.  Both transport us physically, yes, but also emotionally and even Spiritually.  We’re calling it, Views from the Saddle.  Thank you for joining me today!

So now, let’s get back to Views from the Saddle, our conversation and the conclusion of our visit with Brett and Melissa Wilson.  

Well, I’m so grateful for that visit with Brett and Melissa.  Ya know, when I’ve been asked what the Peace Love Moto Podcast is all about, sometimes I say it’s just about joy.  The joy we feel doing what we love to do, just being out riding, and sharing a smile with a stranger along the way.  Yeah, as simple as that.

As always, thank you for spreading the news about this podcast.  You can simply Google the words Peace Love Moto Podcast and you can find it, or go to peacelovemoto.com.  

Until we meet again, I wish you peace.  I wish you love.

Music by

Brett Wilson:  https://www.mountainzenden.com/

Alexi Action from Pixabay

PineAppleMusic from Pixabay

Yoav Alyagon from Pixabay

Olexy from Pixabay

When someone asks me to describe what the Peace Love Moto podcast is all about, I simply say that it’s about the peace of mind that all of us seek, and some of us find, from the saddle of a motorcycle.  Well today, you’ll hear a slightly different approach for reaching that same goal, peace of mind.  

Brett and Melissa Wilson are extraordinary people.  Yes, they too, seek that peace of mind that we all seek from the saddle.  But their saddles are attached to horses and its simply amazing to learn what motorcyclists and horseback riders have in common.  

I know that you’re going to enjoy this part 1 of a two part conversation with the hosts of the Mountain Zen Den Podcast, Brett and Melissa Wilson.

Music by: 

Brett Wilson (https://www.mountainzenden.com/)

Gary Schmidt (https://www.garyschmidtmusic.com/)

Oleksii Kaplunskyi from Pixabay

Lesfm from Pixabay

Sergii Pavkin from Pixabay

Sergii Pavkin from Pixabay

I call this episode “Motorcycling with Your Eyes Closed - Don’t let this happen to you”.  Of course we ride with our eyes open!  What a silly thought.  We motorcycle riders are hyper aware of everything going on around us.  We make sure that the car we’re approaching sees us.  We watch for wildlife crossing the road.  We’ve got to be careful because our health depends on it.  

But this past week, my eyes were not as open as they should have been and I regret what I didn’t do.  Maybe it’s a lesson for all of us. 

Music by: 

Brett Wilson (https://www.mountainzenden.com/)

Gary Schmidt (https://www.garyschmidtmusic.com/)

Alexi Action from Pixabay

PineAppleMusic from Pixabay

Yoav Alyagon from Pixabay

Olexy from Pixabay

My dog, Sally, doesn’t know that it’s Wednesday.  She has no plans for tomorrow.  She doesn’t even have plans for today.  She’s just in the moment.  

Right here beside me, right now, life is good.  And to her, that’s what matters.  Living in the moment. It’s not that she doesn’t care about what’s going on in the world, she’s just unaware, and maybe that’s normal.  Maybe you and I should learn something from that when we take our next motorcycle ride.

Music by: Brett Wilson

Alexi Action from Pixabay

PineAppleMusic from Pixabay

Yoav Alyagon from Pixabay

Olexy from Pixabay

I think I know you.  You’ll talk to a stranger.  You’ll ask someone parked on the side of a lonely road if they need help.  When you see a little kid looking through the car window at you on your motorcycle, you’ll wave and you love to see that kid’s smile as they wave back and tell mom and dad about you.

In today’s episode, I'll introduce you to Fred (pictured).  We’ll talk about why being kind to strangers is so important to the entire motorcycling community.  We’ll describe forms of kindness, different ways of showing that motorcycle riders are really good people, and then we’ll talk about why your actions as a rider, really impact all of us all.

Music by Dream-Protocol from Pixabay

Music by Zakhar Valaha from Pixabay

Music by Bohdan Kuzmin from Pixabay

Welcome to Part 2 and the conclusion of my interview with Rob Hamilton, the motorcyclist, musician and very popular Youtube content creator in Australia.  

Rob Hamilton’s work is amazing.  Rob takes us with him and his motorcycle for a visit with Mother Nature at the Speed of Life.  No complexity here.  No use of Artificial Intelligence.  With more than 177 thousand Youtube subscribers with video view count currently of over 13 million views, Rob’s moto camping videos are like nothing you’ve ever seen.  This is Art.  It’s about enjoying our passion for motorcycling and embracing the wonders of Nature, all without saying a word.  

Connect with Rob at:

https://www.motofeelz.com/

https://youtube.com/@Rob_Hamilton

https://www.instagram.com/moto_feelz

In this age of shock and awe films that bombard our senses with sights and sounds, how can these motorcycle camping themed Youtube videos be so successful?  They’re not fast cuts between mind-blowing scenes. There’s no AI involved here.  And this also isn’t what they term “Slow TV”, where we’re watching a lack of activity until we are put to sleep.  

No. This is Art.  This is real, and that’s why, with more than 177 thousand Youtube subscribers with watch counts currently over 13 million views, he’s still not out to fool us, or convince anyone of anything. 

Rob Hamilton, the motorcyclist, musician and photographer in Australia, just takes you and I along with him through real journeys at the “Speed of LIFE”.    As Rob describes his videos, he simply says it’s a “Complete audible camping experience.  No talking, just you, me and the sounds of nature. And that’s what certainly grabbed my attention when I first stumbled upon his amazing work and became a fan.

Connect with Rob at:

https://www.motofeelz.com/

https://youtube.com/@Rob_Hamilton

https://www.instagram.com/moto_feelz

When we were kids, we played.  Remember?  Going outside to play?  My mother or dad would answer the phone, not a cell phone but the one built into our house, and a kid on the other end of the line would say “Can Ronnie come out to play?”  Today, you and I sometimes get a call or more likely a text saying “Want to go for a ride?”   In other words, sometimes my buddys Martin or Brian calls to ask, “Hey Ron, can you come out to play?”

That’s the beauty of this sport we love, isn’t it.  Yes, it’s transportation and a cool means for travel, but if you’re like me, it’s the same play that I experienced in my childhood.  When we go out for a ride, we go out to play, sometimes alone and sometimes with our friends, and that’s a beautiful thing.  What a gift to be able to do that!

In today’s episode, we’ll reminence for a while on a mindset that maybe we don’t think about as often as we should, especially as the responsibilities of life add up.  Going out to play with our motorcycles.  Sounds like fun, doesn’t it!  It is!  Let’s talk about it.

Music by:

Gary Schmidt https://www.garyschmidtmusic.com/

Brett Wilson https://www.mountainzenden.com/

Music by 29811401 from Pixabay

Music by Music_Unlimited from Pixabay

Music by DMD_Production from Pixabay

Music by Jon_Nathan_21 from Pixabay

In today’s episode, we’ll talk about balance, both on the bike and in life.  As any experienced motorcyclist will tell you, staying loose and relaxed on the bike makes you a better rider and it keeps you more safe than being all tensed up.  Yeah I get that.  But, what’s it mean to stay loose in life?  

Back in the Saddle Again sung by Gene Autry

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Back_in_the_Saddle_Again

Music by:

Gary Schmidt https://www.garyschmidtmusic.com/

Brett Wilson https://www.mountainzenden.com/

29811401 from Pixaba

Unlimited from Pixabay

DMD_Production from Pixabay

Jon_Nathan_21 from Pixabay