Issue link: http://cp.revolio.com/i/929813
rider but the norm for these adventure riders). Then I welcomed his comment, "Good job". Needless to say this was a milestone day in my life. Forever etched in my mind is the first dirt road I traveled in 45 years. The following days each held individual highlights both with "Divine Appointments" and the joys of being on the road on a motorcycle. I had numerous opportuni es to pray-share & care on people along the way. Highlights included: Day 4- Mesa Verde, I had been through the area but never made the me to stop, very cool! Day 5-We road dirt trails through the "Valley of the gods", a valley filled with geologic monuments – Awesome! Day 6- Art and I partnered up to ride the "Hells Backbone", an awesome 60-mile or so gravel road across the mountains. We had a blast and saw some cool sights. Day 7-Paul, Jim, Pat, Bob and I rode Zion Na onal Park, breathtaking! Day 8 – The en re group rode the Mt. Nebo scenic loop en route to Salt Lake beau ful mountain scenery! Noteworthy - My new friend "Bob" was awesome and fearless, he did every road and he was riding a BMW LT full bagger touring bike. Yep, a full dresser on the trails… Go Bob! A er "day 3" on Shafer Trail I was in my comfort zone of riding. As a new adventure rider every day I received pointers from my fellow group members and really appreciated that. Before asking the ques ons about equipment and techniques I would always state the obvious " You know I am a Harley Guy" but………How do you… They were most gracious and were very helpful and tolerant of the "new guy". A few of the things I discovered about these adventure riders: 1. It seems, the wearing of sleeveless t-shirts and leather vests were not the uniform of choice for the adventure riders they opted for full coverage safety gear (ATG- ATT) all the gear, all the me. 2. My backwards ball cap and half helmet was also an oddity. Full and modular helmets are preferred. 3. When it rains, these folks put on rain gear? 4. Bungee cords are apparently a no-no!! I was asked if my name was " Jed Clampit" then introduced to Roc straps and proper dry gear bags. 5. I filled my economy so sided cooler with 5 lbs of ice every day and bungeed it to my n can saddlebag, then dripping (water) all the way. Everywhere I went the BMW guys were looking for the leak on my bike. :) Upon arriving in Salt Lake, I went and registered for the Na onal Rally. I did not pre- register cause I really didn't know I would make it that far… but once inside it was old home week. There was tons of cool BMW's and friendly people. Loads of friendly vendors and exhibitors. Also the seminars for many aspects of the environment were quite informa ve. This was so worth the trip and price of admission. I found people were real nice, and a number approached me to discuss spiritual ma ers because my Bikers For Christ vest made my purpose and mission clear. When it came to the vendors, Pete was my coach. We went around and put the final touches on my Adventure bike. Star ng with ge ng the right lights (Thank you Cyclops), the correct gear bags (Thank you Wolfman), the correct straps (Thank you Roc straps). Upon leaving the rally I headed out for an 1800-mile solo run home via Sturgis. By now I was all fixed up with the right gear purchased at the rally and experienced a real smooth ride home. Of all the highlights, importantly I had made 10 new friends. Star ng out a week earlier as "the new guy and outsider" a er days together on the road I was made to feel like one of the guys. I was given a decal represen ng the group, and there was some discussion of what might be in store next year…. I CAN'T WAIT! Never miss the significance and the joy of the ministry milestones in your life! "Chaplain Sidecar" Addison, Texas To read Sidecar's ar cle: "From Texas to Alaska" go to: www.WheelsOfGrace.com/ texas-to-alaska WheelsOfGrace.com Volume 9 Issue 5 21