bahWIFE Finally Joins in on the Fun!

Never thought it would happen. After years of pestering her, the missus finally joined in on a weekend ride. Danny, Kim, Betty (the aforementioned bahwife), and I left early this past Friday morning for one of our favorite spots: Eureka Springs, Arkansas. Roughly 300 miles each way from OKC, it's a decent distance for a passenger's first real foray into moto touring. Previously, Betty had only ridden around town with me. A trip out to Eischen's for chicken was her longest ride.

The night before we left, I ran her around to several motorcycle shops until I found a helmet that fit correctly. She'd previously been wearing a KBC that was too big and it would flop around on her head -- most annoying! I knew it would never do for a 300-mile day, and if there's one thing sure to spoil a trip, it's an ill-fitting helmet. We found a nice HJC CL-15 model that she liked: $129.99 at Oklahoma Honda. It was that or a $600 Shoei! LOL. We took the Triumph Tiger, as it's the most comfortable bike I own for a passenger.

The wife did good on the way out. No real complaints. We stopped often, so she could stretch her legs. I slowed down a bit through the twisty bits, so as not to scare her too bad (though I did manage to drag the centerstand on the Tiger for the very first time, which totally startled the crap outta me, not to mention terrified the wife!). Stayed two nights at the Matterhorn Towers, which was nice. Saturday, we took Betty shopping in downtown Eureka Springs (See how accomodating I was?) and then rode the twisties for a bit. Sunday, we headed home via the infamous Pig Trail, where I think Betty was actually starting to relax and enjoy the curves a bit.

Thanks to Danny for talking her into it, Danny and Kim for being such great traveling companions as always (love you guys!), and Betty, of course, for joining in on the fun. Next thing ya know, she'll be wanting her own bike!

My gang (Kim, Danny, and Betty) during a gas stop somewhere on the long lonesome highway.

Danny and I found some rad sunglasses in a downtown shop.

Betty and I about to leave out from Danny's house Friday morning (8/29/08).

Betty and I with the faithful Tiger, downtown Eureka Springs.