Patrick Beeson is a rookie rider who attempts to cover issues important to newbies each month while splicing in anecdotes about his journey from citizen to motorcyclist. If you’re new to riding, or simply want to share a story from your early days in the saddle, send him an e-mail at patrickbeeson (at) gmail (dot) com.
Riding the Long “Tail”
Wednesday, May 27, 2009
Highway 129, or “The Tail of the Dragon” as it’s more commonly known, is a dream road for many motorcyclists with its 318 turns in 11 miles. But for the unprepared, or unskilled, it can be a nightmare. Mention riding the Dragon to non-motorcyclists you’ll get responses full of words like “die,” “death,” “insane,” and “stupid.” These really aren’t the best words to have in your head when skirting Tellico Lake on the way to see if the hype is real. Full story »
Wear What You Want To Crash In
Monday, March 23, 2009
It doesn’t matter how hot it is outside, or how long it takes to scrape together all of your riding gear. That phrase, “wear what you want to crash in,” summarizes perfectly the attitude motorcyclists of any level should take towards their riding apparel. Full story »
First Time Into the Four-Wheel Fray
Thursday, March 12, 2009
The first time is always scary. Neither classes or friends or glossy magazines can really prepare you for the sweaty, queasy feeling you get when pulling out into traffic for the first time on a motorcycle. Full story »
MSF Course a Must For Riders Old and New
Thursday, Feb. 19, 2009
It doesn’t matter if you’ve been riding for 15 years or 15 minutes: the Motorcycle Safety Foundation’s Basic Ridercourse will make you a better, and safer, rider.
I took the two-day course, offered at two locations in West Knoxville, before I ever twisted a throttle. The reasons for my attendance were simple: My brother wouldn’t let me ride his motorcycle without my having a license, and I could get my license after taking the course. Oh, and it’s also a great way to spend a weekend learning about something exciting and new. Full story »