Nestled in the rugged embrace of Northern British Columbia, Canada, where the wilderness stretches as far as the eye can see and the mountains carve the skyline, I found my first love – dirt biking. My childhood was painted with the earthy hues of forest trails and the adrenaline of navigating mountainous paths, a playground made by the tireless hands of the local forest industry. These endless kilometres of raw, untamed beauty were my first teachers, instructing me in the ways of balance, speed, and the sheer joy of riding. I dabbled in motocross racing, feeling the rush of competition and the camaraderie of fellow riders, though never reaching a point where those experiences defined me. They were, however, integral chapters of my youth, shaping a passion that would lay dormant for years to come.
Life, as it often does, took me on a different course – away from the dirt tracks and the roar of engines, towards new horizons and responsibilities. The bikes were put away, and the helmets hung up as I ventured into a different kind of wilderness. Now, as I stand on the cusp of my 50s, I've circled back to that first love, but with a twist. Adventure and dual-sport motorbiking have called me back to the trails, and to my surprise, it was as if I never left. The skills, the excitement, the connection to the trail – it all came flooding back with the first twist of the throttle.
The Joy of Rediscovery
Since mounting the bike again, three aspects of adventure motorcycling have stood out, each rekindling the fire of my youth with a mature appreciation for the journey, the challenges, and the beauty of the world around us.
1. The Immersion in Nature
The first thing that struck me was the unparalleled access to nature that adventure motorcycling offers. Unlike the confined tracks of my motocross days, adventure riding throws the map wide open. The trails through British Columbia’s backwoods – a mosaic of emerald green forests, crystal-clear streams, and towering mountains – are more than just routes; they are gateways to a deeper connection with the environment. Riding these trails, I've rediscovered the profound peace that comes from being surrounded by nature, far removed from the hustle of daily life.
2. The Challenge and Reward
Adventure motorcycling has reacquainted me with the joy of facing and overcoming challenges. Navigating tough terrain, adjusting to changing weather conditions, and ensuring the bike is in top condition for the journey ahead – all these elements bring a sense of achievement that’s hard to find elsewhere. Each ride is a new adventure, a test of skill and endurance, offering the sweet reward of a summit reached or a difficult path conquered. This constant learning and adaptation have been incredibly fulfilling, a testament to the fact that growth doesn’t stop at any age.
3. The Community Spirit
One of the most heartening aspects of returning to motorbiking has been the community. Adventure motorcycling isn’t just about the individual rider; it’s about the shared experiences, the stories told over campfires, and the bonds formed on the road. The community is welcoming, diverse, and vibrant, with a shared passion for the ride and the adventures it brings. It’s been a pleasure to meet fellow enthusiasts, each with their own unique story and insights, further enriching the experience of being back on the bike.
Why Consider Adventure Motorcycling?
So, why should you consider adventure motorcycling? Beyond the thrill of the ride and the beauty of the landscapes, it’s about rediscovery – of passions, of abilities, and of the simple joy of being alive and in the moment. It’s a way to challenge yourself, to step outside the everyday and into a world brimming with possibilities. Whether you’re 15 or 50, the trails offer something invaluable: a chance to connect, to learn, and to grow.
Adventure motorcycling is more than just a hobby; it’s a journey back to oneself. It’s a reminder that life is an adventure, filled with paths waiting to be explored. The sense of freedom, the physical and mental challenge, and the beauty of the world around us are all compelling reasons to consider this exhilarating pursuit.
For those of us who have rediscovered this passion or are discovering it for the first time, it offers a unique blend of adventure, personal growth, and connection to the natural world. It’s an invitation to explore, to push beyond boundaries, and to embrace the journey, wherever it may lead.
So, to anyone standing on the edge, wondering if adventure motorcycling is for them
, I say this: There’s a world out there waiting to be explored, trails that tell their own stories, and a community ready to welcome you. The journey back to adventure motorcycling has been one of the most rewarding of my life, and it might just be the same for you. Let’s ride into the horizon and see what adventures await.