Metamorphosis: Skeptic to Motorcycle Momma in 30 Days

A Note from the Editor:

Many a rider with 20+ years experience remembers with fondness the good old days of the 1970’s and 1980’s, when the ubiquitous UJM (universal Japanese motorcycle) was transforming the face of motorcycle touring. A burgeoning line of affordable and bullet-proof bikes enabled a generation of riders to pursue their dreams across America’s highways. Just ask Lynda, whose husband JimmieS picked up a Kawasaki Z 550 in 1980 when she and Jim were newlyweds. Jim would tell you that he knew Lynda was a keeper, regardless of the fact that Lynda was not much interested in riding pillion.

The Z 550 took Jim on two lengthy tours in the 1980’s, multi-week rides over 7,500 miles. After the Z 500 retired, Jim’s upgrade to a Kawasaki 700 took him from California through the western national parks and up to Canada on his last grand tour. Fast forward 10 years to the new millennium, to 2004. With Lynda’s guarded approval, Jim gets a new Goldwing after a two-year retirement from riding. Things haven’t been the same since. Gone are the days of the old UJMs and, along with them, Lynda’s hesitation to ride along for the grand tour.

Join Jim and Lynda on their 2006 Odyssey, from west coast to east and back again, and see how this pair of old friends discovered a new love together. The sights cataloged and miles described will set you dreaming for your own Odessey. Jim and Lynda, congratulations on this most excellent adventure and the re-telling that takes us with you mile by mile, day by day, thrill by thrill.