Originally I titled this chapter prodigal years because during this time in my life. Between when I got my driver’s license and bought my first car, this defined a new freedom for me. Even before the car I bought a motorcycle. Why? Because in Massachusetts you can drive a bike at the age of 16 – on your own no parents – with a motorcycle learners permit.
Since I was already working hard at Software Plus after school every day and on Saturdays, I had the means to buy a bike. So I did in spring of 1984, months before turning 16. My choice? A silver 1981 Suzuki GS450E with blue accents. Japanese bikes were inexpensive, reliable, powerful and well built. The “E” stood for European model varient, which was the style I was going for. Like more Cafe racer than cruiser.
I drove that thing up and down my driveway learning how to maneuver it through tight turns for months before I was legal. It was like being in a stall before the horse or calf could spring out of the stall. Man, I was so ready to experience true freedom. The open road!
What a summer that was! It wasn’t without it’s issues. I got popped in the rear up at the Northshore near cranes beach by of all folks – an Ambulance driver coming behind me on an on-ramp when I was yeidling to merge. It was relatively slow speed, but I went flying over the handlebars like 5 feet up in the air and 10 feet forward. Landed on my feet somehow and while the bike was damaged in the rear, it was rideable.
I ride that thing all over. Even up to a freinds place in New Hampshire – in the rain! I had a yellow full rain suit. And had no problem riding in the rain. After all, I had no car licence or car I could drive instead. Small price to pay for freedom!
Riding a motorcycle is like riding a mechanical horse. Man and machine. I really wanted to come into my manhood ASAP.