Love Affair with a Harley

by Janice Mendyk RN
(Clarksville, TN)

2009 HD Sportster 883L

I began riding last summer at 63 years old. I had tried to learn in my 20's but did not have a teacher with a lot of patience (my first husband). I ran his Honda over a trash can and that was the end of that. Neither of us (me or the bike) were hurt, but you would have thought I had slaughtered her. That marriage ended after 17 years, and I entered into marriage #2 a few years later. After hibernating for 20 years, I ended that marriage and finally at 63, was a free woman. Old enough to know what I wanted and still strong and healthy enough to take it. I bought my bike in May 2009 brand new. I had just passed the Rider's Edge course and still really did not know how to ride. A male friend who rode was there for support when the bike arrived. A Sportster, 883L (I'm only 5'4") Red-Hot Sun-Glo or Burgundy metal flake. Absolutely gorgeous. In fact that is her name, "Gawgeous" with a southern drawl. I said to him, "Go on, try it." He said, "Nope, brand new bike; first rider should be the owner. Get on it and go." And I did. After 11 miles I returned home and he was gone. But he did what I needed him to do. "Get on it and go." And I haven't stopped. It now has 3400 miles on it. I ride it daily, ride it to work, ride it shopping, and just for fun. I am developing a self-confidence I have never had and feel like my life is starting over at 64 years old. I love it, love it, love it! I am already looking at my next one and plan on buying that next year, a Night Rod Special Edition. Pure sex!