Special Thanks to Mike Green and the San Jacinto High Rollers MC for their permission to reprint this article.

MOTORCYCLE MYSTERY 
By Autumn M. Knight

Many people may wonder why anyone would want to learn to ride a motorcycle at 35 years of age. I myself  wanted something different, a new outlet if you could call it that, some way to experience new things in a  different light than the one I had been in for such a long time. I had always loved to ride, but as most know, riding on the back compared to being in front is like looking through frosted glass. 

The first mention of riding came about in May of ’96. I approached my husband with the thought of perhaps purchasing a bike. Little did I know our whole life as we knew it would be completely transformed. Nearly one month after buying "OUR" bike, I was on my way down to the local DPS office to make an attempt at getting my first motorcycle license. 

No problem. A very proud moment for myself I might add. Something that not a lot of women have. I then  joined the ranks of other women who were out to find the mystery and attraction that motorcycles present to the male species. 

We had picked out "OUR" Suzuki Intruder. This was to be my bike. Shortly after he found his bike, Harley Davidson of course. Sure, I heard the jokes about power and similar comments about sexual preferences, but in all it wasn’t any of that. As most female riders can tell you, it’s the same feelings men have-the wind, freedom of the road, the splendor of scenery relating its closeness and comfort. 

In the two years of riding I have seen some of the most beautiful scenery, met some of the nicest people, realized exactly how bad some of the roads actually are, experienced some of the worst weather (realizing exactly how cold & wet the rain can be), and have come to realize that I don’t know the words by heart to that many 
songs. What a great feeling it is to be riding and see the "Thumbs Up" sign by not only men but several women  as well. Seems everyone, every age, loves the freedom riding a motorcycle represents. 

In the two years plus of riding I have also seen another side of riding. Many four-wheelers don’t see us. The road conditions don’t cater to bikers. Mother Nature can really let you know who is boss. With respect for the road and bike, and fellow travelers motorcycling can be the only way to go. 

This past year I have had the pleasure to travel through Texas on my bike. I have seen many places, Harley shops, met several colorful characters, and have really come to an understanding about the biker community. There is hardly a charity that doesn’t involve this community. Bikers have long since had a rough reputation, but I believe with the variety of individuals riding now that reputation is starting to be a thing of the past. Their generosity has been 
proven with the toy runs at Christmas, the March of Dimes run every year, the Crippled Children’s run, and many other events that have been sponsored through motorcycle clubs throughout Texas. Children of all ages are thrilled to see a pack of bikes coming now, no longer afraid of the rough and burly biker of the past.