A mate, who has a talent writing poetry, penned this recently and knowing there's a few here who belong to the Far Riders fraternity, I thought you'd enjoy it as much as I:
The Long Distance Rider ,
There are a very unique group of people, that main stream citizens seldom understand.
Male, female, old and young, different faiths, nationalities, no barriers do they stand.
For each one have their reasons, that draws them to this life.
Joys of solitaire riding, being with like minded people, or even escaping personal strife.
The passion held in every heart, carefully planning of each ride
Fuel range, travelling distance, bike safety held with pride.
Ever evolving natures landscapes, with the passing of the day,
As they ride our nations roads, the destination, they make their way.
Many thoughts may cross the minds, or maybe but a few,
Sorting out personal problems, or simply absorbing the stunning views
Each rider at one with their bike, that is very plain to see,"
Could be referred to as a 2nd home, a most natural place to be .
Away from the stop, start traffic, urban pressures put in place,
Now each spirit, they can be free, riding country roads, at their pace.
All the familiar sensations, each long distance rider craves ,
The best of all addictions, start coming in increasing waves ,
The feeling of total freedom, at least for a couple of days ,
A rider, a bike, like minded people, how much more is to say.
The sweet sound of the motor, and the tyres on the road,
Wind whistling around the bike, as it hauls it's worthy load .
Winding along the country roads, at a steady hypnotic pace
The emotions are all but hidden, often, by a stern and stony face.
A couple of hundred k’s they can pass, without a living sign
Nor, car, a truck, a motorcycle, true loneliness, one is resigned.
To ride their bikes, both day and night, more then a 1000 k’s will be done ,
To arrive safely at the destination point, with some socialising and a little fun.
Solo's, two's or small groups of more, start arriving at a country town,
Shaking of hands, a welcome drink, after helmets and gloves are placed down.
Register says all are in, all safe arrivals, no one lost along their way,
Reassuring news, let the social begin, in the middle of the day.
Beyond those sunburnt happy faces, deeper then common interests care
There is by far a spiritual connection, all long distance riders seem to share.
Look past the brightness of their eyes, into the darkest depths of each soul
You will see in all of them, an image of a road .. Reflecting from each soul
A road to no place in particular, nor the home of a much loved one
Maybe one travelled many times, maybe one to be done ,
An hour or two have passed by, a spiritual awakening is taking place,
For these restless souls have had their calling, changing expressions on their face,
Solo's, two's, small groups of more, slowly move to their bikes ,
They head off from whence they came ... The long distance riders plight ....
Roy Lowndes
Pitt Town , N.S.W
FR # 1058
Teddy ....
