BIKETOBERFEST 2018

Sorry I missed last month’s issue. Sometimes life gets in the way of the best laid plans.

You may have heard me comment previously that our riding community is rapidly aging. So this year we thought we would infuse some youth into Biketoberfest 2018.

Our son, nephew, niece and a couple of friends ranging in age from 21 to 40 made the trip to Daytona. Our son who has been with us previously has usually been preoccupied with racing at the Speedway. This trip was different as he was viewing the sites in a different capacity. The others were first timers and we wanted them to take in as much as possible over the shortened time frame that is Biketoberfest.

Unusually warm temperatures made for uncomfortable daytime riding. I like things hot but upper 90’s in jeans and boots lends new meaning to toasty.

These kids are people watchers so the sights and sounds of Biketoberfest were enjoyable but hanging out at different venues for hours is not their thing. It really was more about the riding.

The trip up the coast down A1A from Daytona Beach to Flagler and then on to The Loop was more to their liking.

My son and his friend took in some time at the Speedway to see some racing (old habits die hard). And while they enjoyed the bands and characters on Main Street, places like Cabbage Patch and Ironhorse were must sees only because you were there.

When I asked them what they liked most about the trip unanimously it was the riding. Particularly the trip back to New Smyrna Beach at night with salt air in their faces.

Perhaps part of it was the hot temperatures but the youth movement, if there is one, appears to want more riding. And isn’t that what its really all about?

As this is the December issue, I want to wish all our readers a very Merry Christmas and the hope that 2019 brings only the best for you and your families.

As always, ride safe,

Denise Kennedy