Attitudes for Riding Longer and Being Happier

[@tnetroP]

7:05 "It does not matter what anybody else thinks". This is so true.

[@Robnord1]

For me the turning point was age 55 (2009) . Changed from workaholic and quite often cynical attitude to more relaxed and philosophical. Got back into motorcycles. Started taking frequent time off for adventures. Embraced Spirituality and a daily Spiritual practice over the rigid religious beliefs I grew up with. Some call these the mid-Life crisis years. I call it The Awakening. ✌

[@LivingOffTheSlab]

I love it "Awakening." I am going to steal that!

[@tonyjourneyman1944]

I call this period for me the "dumdumbinator period". Realised my cynicism was real and justified.

[@lancerbiker5263]

@@tonyjourneyman1944 I prefer skepticism to cynicism 🙂 A doubtful state of mind.

[@branguzzi1]

I have a little saying I try to remember each time I get in the saddle: May I do MY best today. It relieves me from trying to control others and the frustrations that go along with that.

[@MichaelJones-ir3cc]

I am 58 YO and a retired U.S. Border Patrol Agent. I have been riding for 40 years and riding long week/multi-week trips a lot since retirement. I, like you have really mellowed with age and just love planning multi-trip rides over our long winters and executing those plans every summer with like minded riding buddies. Life is too short...Plan the trip, take the trip and enjoy every minute of the trip before you wake up one day with regrets for not doing what you love. My wife of 33 years fully supports my adventures and every reunion with her after my trips are joyous occasions. I view life on two wheels almost as "church on two wheels". The open road is where I have met some of the best people and sampled some of the best food and the most beautiful sights and smells I could have ever imagined. Communion, if you will! I love your videos; Thanks so much for sharing!

[@gillesRrider1954]

You're right, the first thing we have to do is change our attitude. I'm 70 and still a motorcyclist, and I drive carefully without being a nuisance on the road. I adapt my driving by being less stressed. I'm always on my guard to avoid potential dangers. And keep toxic people away .All the points you describe are true and I follow them too. I really like what you do. Greetings from Quebec Canada.

[@parclan]

A hefty dose of gratitude goes a LONG way to making life better, even when the going gets tough.

[@richardmcgrath61]

Wise words. I'm 63 and recently obtained a motorcycle license, now riding a 110 cc scooter and loving it!

[@johnenglish1575]

Wise words. Cheers from a 76 yr old motorcyclist in Australia.

[@christopherkim8796]

I'm 47 years old man. Your story inspires me a lot. Thank you so much for your wise words from your experience.

[@JohnSherman2]

All great points. As an older daily rider 79-years young. I treat each ride a continuing riding skills learning experience. With head 100% in ride concentration; as a result, i even find riding with traffic relaxing and lightly cover brakes 100% of ride. Downsized from R12RT to C400GT however my skillset seems to remain. Motorcycle is a continuous learning experience!

[@geraldtakala1721]

Me too!

[@michaelromick9970]

Love the be a life-long learner advice! I started riding at 55 after my wife passed and then I went back to school and earned my doctorate degree at 60! Riding is my therapy and I love it!

[@bobboileau8318]

I'm about to turn 60. I got my first motorcycle in 2022. I LOVE this video! Thank you!!

[@flaviobof7699]

I am now 62 years old and have been riding motorcycles for 40 years and as you rightly said, there is always something new to learn. Many greetings from Switzerland

[@JamesMiller-q9w]

Well Put Switzerland I'm 76 and still riding since being 20 on a BSA lightning. Always something to learn for sure....But ride to live and live to ride...

[@Brainwashedmorons69]

If I had a dollar for every time I've read someone has been riding 40 years,why I'd be riding a 2023 cvo road glide.

[@JamesMiller-q9w]

No old time rider wants a Bike an electrical engineer can't fix. We ride Classics and do our own repairs.@@Brainwashedmorons69

[@lancerbiker5263]

I retired a teacher but will die a student. Learning is everything. I have been riding for 50 + years and still learn new things. New riders need to understand that riding skill is an evolution. I tell them to think all other drivers are out to kill you. May be extreme , but it makes them more defensive. It is a pleasure to see you enjoying your "twilight" as I am on a motorcycle.

[@robbieoneil5945]

@lancerbiker5263, I love Your comment, I'm a retired ex volunteer Motorcycle Instructor, hey, I guess that makes us blood Brothers, because that makes Me like a Teacher too, We just both had different types of Students & subjects I guess, anyway with regards to Your comment, We used to tell it to them a slightly different way, We used to say treat every car on the road as if it was an unmarked Police car & every Driver like He's an idiot, that way You wont do anything wrong & You wont let anybody do anything wrong to You.

[@wingandhog]

On retrospect, one other attitude that I have adopted is that I am no longer the ‘community or family’ piggy bank. That message has been loud and clear to some family members dismay.

[@chipgroff9664]

A very good reflection of life and probably the one of the best videos I've seen in a while.

[@Butcho108]

Enjoyed your story sir. I also appreciate your mindset at this time in my life as a senior motorcyclist. I do believe you left one segment out, and that is your personal spiritual development in whatever faith you and your good wife practice in your lives. I believe that would top off perfectly your essential list, as our spiritual service and worship will carry us down the road to our next life.

[@paulmorris3022]

i Love watching your content and you talk so much sense. i remember speaking to a friend of mine who was 102 years old. sadly passed away now, but i asked him what the key to success was to living a long life and like you he said "don't worry about the things you can't control". i am 57 now and i love riding my Tiger 1200 gt pro here in the UK. i am at that stage in life where i want to pull back from work and go and do the things in life i have always wanted to do. At my age now after having a heart attack 3 years ago has made me realise how close i was to not being here anymore and there is so much more i want to do. The one thing i have found is things are a lot harder to do and more effort is needed to complete. This vlog is a check sheet to enjoy life in later years and i welcome it. Take care brother and i look forward to brilliant content going forward.

[@danacrutcher2458]

I like what you have to say in this video. It took me falling off a ladder, and breaking my back , 3 months before my 60th birthday to realize that there might be something other than my balls to the walls , hard working… hard playing lifestyle. As I lay , broken on a stairway, watching the dust swirling around me … I slowly moved my fingers, and then my toes, to assess the damage. It’s been a long road back. I’m not physically the same guy I was before the fall, and I likely will never be. But I thank God every day that I not in a wheelchair right now. And to be honest, I’m not mentally the same guy either. I had a lot of time for self reflection during my healing process. My motorcycling lifestyle has evolved a bit. I’m riding a smaller, more manageable bike. I sold my big sport touring bike. And I also sold my dualsport bike. I’m currently riding a new Royal Enfield 350 Classic , and enjoying it a lot … a whole heck of a lot! Just a few weeks ago, I took my first 2 day ride in about 2 years. I even camped out… sleeping on the ground for the first time in a couple of years as well. It took a little help from a bottle of Ibuprofen, but I had a GREAT time. I avoided the Interstates and the freeways completely. I plonked along on that little 350 single … 55-60 mph all day on the blacktops and county highways. It was such a beautiful thing to be back out on the road , doing what I love best! I guess my takeaway is this… don’t take life for granted. Do what brings you joy. But if life gets in the way, make the necessary adjustments. Figure out a way. Don’t give up. Just enjoy the journey … any way you can. Ride on my friends, ride on.

[@LivingOffTheSlab]

Thank you for sharing your story!

[@chrisholton6309]

Absolutely Brilliant! Rule #1. Don’t sweat the little shit. Rule #2. It’s all little shit. I have to remind myself daily…. Craig, I’m envious of your outlook on life! Ride far…👍🏼✌🏼

[@RoysMotoVentures]

Great advice. I am trying to change my aspect on life right now myself. Slow down enjoy life, don't stress over things. But It's hard sometimes. Lol. But i just keep trying. 👍

[@LivingOffTheSlab]

It is not always easy. One day at a time...

[@frankmarkovcijr5459]

I have been riding a bike for 40 + years starting in 1977 when I was in Highschool. Put 36,000 miles on my Honda CM-185 Twin Star. The bike that introduced me to the pleasures of 2 wheels.

[@just.my.2cents]

The blessing of having grand kids and a dog complements well your wisdom! Thx for sharing, ride safe and KEEP sharing. Happily retired. JP

[@stephenrichie4646]

One of the valuable lessons I’ve learned with maturity is that not everything needs my attention. I’m free to not have an opinion. BTW I’m 85 and still riding. Thinking about getting a lighter, lower, slower machine, but damn my Suzuki Bandit is so much fun!

[@jimbartlome504]

Right on. I agree with you. I'm 71 living in northern Ohio and still ride. I love it and it is hard to figure out why something so dangerous gives us so much fun and relaxation?

[@tomsorlie4197]

I'm 72. My Vstrom is almost 14 yrs old. The last number of years I've been particularly careful. Fair weather rider. Take my time. Ride smart. Work 2 days a week and try to appreciate all days and all people, the natural world and beating young guys at the pool table. Did I mention I play pool? Good post.

[@hrmacdonald4471]

"Life is what happens to you while you’re busy making other plans" ... John Lennon Great video Craig...I totally agree with you!

[@cottagegymfun]

I'm 58. Moved out of the US earlier this year and bought a car and a scooter at my new place. I actually got my motorcycle riding license in the US during my early 30's but never rode because of the ex :) Anyhow, I'm very happy with my life, and enjoyed watching this video.

[@RobHitesman]

Really felt like I connected with this video. I’m a 53 year old brand new rider, living the never stop learning life. Thank you for making the video.

[@jimmallery294]

With all the you tube videos that talk about when to quit motorcycling, it is refreshing to see this video on how to keep riding as we age. Good job.

[@VSL229]

Thank you. I'm 51yo and I got my license 6 weeks ago. Hopefully I have many riding years ahead.

[@edmatthews4553]

Very well said. As an associate Elder I also have let that shit go. My focus now is on whatever takes my interest, increases my comfort or, makes me smile.

[@ItsAJourney447]

I think this video is spot on. I'm about your age and have much the same attitude towards my two wheeled enjoyment as you do. But the difference for me is that 3 years ago, I fell off a ladder and fractured 5 vertebrae. It has been a challenge getting healthy again, and has meant some lifestyle changes, including an adjustment to my identity as a lifelong moto traveler. I sold my ST1300 when I realized that it was simply too heavy for me to manhandle anymore ... and two up touring on that bike was simply not happening. I couldn't stand the thought of not riding, and as soon as I was physically able, I purchased a Royal Enfield 350 Classic. It was small, light, comfortable ... and was cool, and fun to putt around on. As I got stronger and healthier, I began putting longer days in the saddle of that little thumper. And along the way, I fell in love with that little bike. It's opened up a new era in motorcycling for me. Or maybe more accurately, a new... old era has been rediscovered. Back when I was 16 years old, I would pack up my DT125 , and take off on long weekends of exploration and camping out under the stars. It's surprising the adventures we can experience within 500 miles of our own back porch. I have rediscovered the joy of puttin' along all day, on county highways and backroads. There is a wonderful world out there that folks who travel the Super Slab, have either forgotten ... or simply never experienced. I'm stronger now, and the pain isn't what it used to be ... but realistically, I'll never be old "longrider" that I was before the accident. But me and my Wife are still able to take some rides together, and I have found that with a little help from Ibuprofen , I'm able to take a little 500 or so mile, long weekend occasionally. My goal for next year is to pack up my little 350 and go on my first week long motorbike trip, since my injury.... all backroads .... all good fun. Keep on Chooglin!

[@looseleftie]

Love your attitude towards life.. Life is short, stop and breathe occasionally and find things that make life enjoyable.. Then go out the next day, and repeat.. Works for me👍

[@tedsalmon2533]

I'm 71 now. Since I retired 4 years ago I now devote all my active time to my hobbies< motorcycling, cycling, fishing and shooting. Now my days are full of doing what I enjoy and there is plenty of time left over to unwind and relax. No social media, no nonstop news. In fact fact barely any news at all. My time to be super involved in all that has come and passed.

[@glennsmith1040]

Couldn't agree with you more.

[@dccollar2963]

I enjoy your posts, aussie motorcycle rider here, it wouldn't be an exaggeration to say that riding and rediscovering nature has kept me sane. The teaching of zen master thich nhat han and stoic philosophy has helped me to put things in perspective.

[@RandyRucker-wn4ll]

I'm 60 been riding for a very long time. I'm trying to change my attitude and adopt your way of thinking me battling everything has to stop and I've paid a price for it. Thank you for making this video.

[@360portugal]

Yes, I am 68 and I ride motorcycles since I was 13. I am using a Honda Sh125i scooter, and I am happy with it. It’s not like my GS 1100 BMW, but its much more pratical and usefull. For me motorcycling is something not related with power or speed or show-off, just the pleasure of riding. It is a kind of meditation.

[@ronsmith6906]

Craig I swear you and I are the same dude, just separated by about 10 years. You just said everything I've been thinking since i got back into motorcycling! Preach on brother!! 👍

[@MrLeo3D]

Spot on 👏. Do make a video on workout exercises (weight training, stretching etc.) for 'wanna be' bikers of older ages.

[@TheTunnellTake]

More motorcyclist awesomeness!

[@itsallabouttheridekeepingi4449]

Hay mate Paul from Australia, I’m 55 and pretty much retired. I ride at least 2 days per week with other mates that ride and most of them are also retired, ages advance around 62 - 70 odd . I’m actually one of the young ones 👍😂😂. I don’t watch the news 📰 and have a strong believe in God that helps my prospective on life ( I don’t Bible bash my mate but are always their for them and being x- Army will NEVER leave a man behind. And ride with other riders that don’t have 0:02 something to prove . Plus I do along of trips away . I still do pretty hard off road BUT I have down sized on my off road bike to a Honda CRF 300 Rally . My Soft off roader is a Moto Guzzi V85tt - brought it to slow myself down after a serious motorcycle accident 3 years ago we’re I had to have brain 🧠 surgery. BUT I couldn’t wait to get back on the bike again . Interested in your group in Australia. My ideas 💡 on life at 55 1. I don’t ride with know it all dickheads 2. I have slowed down abit and on a LONG multi- Day ride will stop 🛑 3-4 times Morning tea - coffee ☕️, Lunch 🥗 Coffee , afternoon tea coffee ☕️ ( lots of coffee 😂😂😂) maybe 🤔 some photo stops . 3. Will not go riding in the rain 🌧 for day rides ( if on a trip unavoidable) 30 plus years in the military cured me from that 😂, 4. Spend quality time talking to mates over a coffee ( generally we don’t talk politics or Religion ) 5. Also their to give a hand 🤚

[@LivingOffTheSlab]

Excellent, thank you!

[@douglasradowick508]

I came across your video and, it got my dander up! I'm now 58 years young. When I was starting to nudge near 50, I heard a person say that: at 50 you should be mentoring the "early 20-27 year olds, teen's & pre-teens". Especially if they never had a dad in their lives. He proceeded to "shut me down" with the attitude that I had NO right to be a mentor to ANY kid! He got caught telling lies about many things, worstly-he was the senior (only) pastor of that church for 31 years. He got found out for his lies & bad attitude. He "retired at 65(8 years ago & didn't care who he ruined, nor, how he destroyed thier (my) life-he was about to retire and live on "lazy" Street not caring about how he destroyed a young man's life & career. I've not been in church for 5 years now, got away from that fool.im into motorcycling after a 30 year "wait". I went to college-ay age 47-for the first time, got my associates degree in massage therapy! That pastor is a "washed up has been" with nothing good to show for the 31 years he lead that church. I have NO pity for/on him, I've moved on with my life & am better for it! Thank-you for letting me"bend" your ear a bit. Doug🏍️🐻

[@blandrooker6541]

My retirement job is being a non emergency medical transportation driver, spending my days taking people to and from medical appointments. I'm out and about at least 8 hours a day, 150 to 300 miles a day, throughout the eastern half of Colorado. My attitude has changed, I've had to reflect on the entire system. The roads are filled with people trying their best to get from point A to point B in one piece. EVERYONE is stressed, some are overwhelmed, some are just plain assholes. Thing is, NOBODY is a perfect driver, so I give everyone leeway to do what they have to do without getting bent out of shape. So, I drive like I ride, keep alert, keep your head on a swivel, be keenly aware of traffic conditions and lane position, and above all, remembering that, even though I'm on a schedule, it's not a racetrack. It won't kill you to be courteous, to give way, to change lanes by pulling behind someone instead of racing to get ahead of someone. Going with the flow of traffic is very much a Zen attitude, and at the end of the day, my stress level is so much lower, my mental state is so much better, and my passengers are so much more relaxed at the end of their trip.

[@stephenevans596]

I'm 76 (yoa) & FULLY agree with the subject matter that you have put out here - when I was younger I lived at a fast past - had a short temper - didn't stop to smell the roses along the road of life but now its completely different & I truly believe the past 10 tears of my life have been without a doubt the happiest I have ever had as I'm very happy & content - just the other day as I entered a intersection (having the green light) a car blew through it running a red light that they had for at least 5 to 8 seconds missing me by maybe 10 feet - my 1st thought was to give chase but then the Beatles song "Let It Be" came into my head & I took a deep breath & went on to enjoy the rest of my day - & I had a GREAT day due to that decision - I love riding LD - I love riding back roads & seeing & greeting Mom & Pop America & I love doing it solo - love your video's also - my best.

[@billreynolds2221]

When I'm feeling weary I hum that tune by the late Toby Keith, "Don't Let the Old Man In". Many moons I have lived, my bodies withered and worn, do you know how old you would be if you didn't know the day you were born. Find whatever it takes to motivate you and RIP Toby Keith.

[@uncl3jun386]

I’m just 30 years old, however for the past 4 years I just hear how Dangerous it is.. but I used to try to always defend how it can be prevented but I just finally stopped caring about the negativity, and knew all the practice I put in, knew the passion I have on 2 wheels, and I couldn’t agree less, Your 💯 % correct. I just started focusing on my passion to ride and have a blast.

[@robperkins2674]

I’d say to anyone that harps on dangerous should not ride do us all a favor and either stop riding or just don’t start riding.

[@anthonyh7698]

Stumbled accross this channel this morning, and very glad I did. I always need reminders about these most important ways of living life.

[@zionvillegirl]

You are right on it Love you man keep it up 👍

[@charlesdooney3350]

I think you are spot on

[@robcig]

I’m turning sixty this year. My “gang” has gone from four weekend warrior doing a decent trip twice a year to, just me, enjoying a Saturday morning ride. I love your content, very refreshing and you make a lotta sense. I haven’t retired yet but look for opportunities to smell the roses more often. Thanks again mate.

[@cfrias99]

All good points. Thank You

[@albertsanchez8007]

Perfect timing for your message. Thank you Craig, may God continue to richly bless you.

[@BobKramer51]

I'm 71, still riding daily and taking several long motorcycle trips each year. For me the secret to success in old age revolves around fitness. I do a 30 minute workout every morning, focusing on flexibility and core strength. Also, ride a bicycle or go hiking 3 to 4 times per week. Get fit to enjoy your golden years.

[@rick3592]

Wow you hit the nail on the head. Everything you said hit home. Riding again after my 3rd daughter went to college. Now 20 years later and 65 years old forced to retire and miserable only when I can't ride! I need to let it go a f it just like you said. Thanks for the video.

[@seller559]

Great video. I’m 56 attitude is EVERYTHING!!!👍

[@fabiopunk1661]

What a pile of truths! I have a bmw gs and rarely go off road. I have a Ducati and rarely ride above 80 mph. I have a Vespa that I enjoy immensely to putt around for errands. I love travelling by bike but don’t ride more than 300 miles per day, sometimes 200. I find a hotel early afternoon so I have time to relax, walk around and see places, and go for dinner. All is spot on here!

[@kevinharmon8885]

Well said. Aged 70 I commute between Ireland and France on my BMW ,as they say Adventure before Dementia

[@BonesKitchens]

My wife and I just enjoyed watching your video. Great advice.

[@joen220]

Great Video, I am a guy who is now 72. I just bought a 1997 Honda CB750 Nighthawk. I had owned a Honda 150 & 450. I am slowly getting back into riding, I have always liked it. Be Safe out there.

[@BurtMay]

You sir! Have got it together! I'm a work in progress! Keep Vlogging!

[@dw5523]

Fantastic advice. I'm 41 and glad I have elders like you sharing their wisdom. Three things helped me the last few years: actively practicing my faith, letting go of perfection, and being physically active. The first is a personal choice, but in the absence of religion people tend to get religious about food, politics, and other silly things (like choice of motorcycle). I prefer the old fashioned way. The last one isn't an attitude, but being physically active is one of the most helpful things in regulating my attitude. I like picking up heavy things and long walks. Seems to work.

[@jimmin9802]

So true! I have followed a lot of these rules, backroads are changing people are still driving distracted, but what can you do? Slow down relax enjoy the time you have, Planned to retire in two years and get to some motorcycle traveling but the wife was in a horrible accident at her work and things being what they are i will need to stick it out at least eight more years for the health care. Life goes on And remember your life can change in a split second so enjoy what you have. Looking forward to more of your videos.

[@jimhutfles8551]

This might be my favorite video you ever did. I'm 61 and been riding most of my life. I also try to very much enjoy the ride as well as the downtime. Mostly, let that shit go, is a great attitude to have. Keep up the good work my brother.

[@kathyceresi9600]

I'm a 56 year old female and I've just started riding. My husband has ridden for decades and always wanted me to learn so we could ride together. A few months ago he bought me a 2023 Honda Rebel 1100T DCT ..... my first bike. I'm loving it!! My only regret is not learning decades ago, i wish i hadn't wasted so much time. This weekend i go for my msf course (i do have my mototcycle permit already) because while i could probably get away with riding dirty, i want to learn the best ways to handle my bike to keep myself as safe as i possibly can. I want to be riding when I'm in my 90s, or at least for a long as i safely can. 😊 btw, we're from the Cape, Wareham actually. 🤘😉. Presently in Florida for my husband's work .

[@thomasadkins1668]

Awesome vid....I am 56 and have come to these same conclusions. I think this should be seen by everyone 50 and over weather they ride or not. Its a great way to live...

[@markjones786]

I agree completely. At 55 I feel the same way unfortunately I still struggle with letting that shit go. Your video was very inspiring gave me a sense I am on the right track thank you sir for your words of wisdom. Keep the rubber size down and may god be with you and your wife in your travels.

[@albertleffler962]

Always reforming. Absolutely.

[@TheTuxMaster]

F**k, the most talented thing I've heard about motorbikes in a long time! You have adopted a Stoic approach to life, I did that too around the time I turned 50. I met some older gentlemen this summer, +70 both. So you can ride for many more years!

[@I_am_archie]

Hey, there's the Vision 🤠👍

[@eddievanpachtenbeke1870]

I’m 69 riding my Harley-Davidson in South Africa, your spot on. I’m subscribed to your KZbin channel 🔝

[@wingandhog]

Amen brother …( I am 63 and I 💯 agree)

[@samuelfink4799]

Good content Craig, I’m 55, widowed, still working and have been contemplating getting back into motorcycling just as another means of therapy. As Ive started down this rabbit whole Ive researched everything from a Vespa to the Triumph Tigers overthinking everything as I go and so far unwilling to turn loose any of my money Ive squirreled away for things such as this. So many of you produce content that touches on so much more than motorcycling and for that I’m thankful.

[@owenparkerjr.6588]

It's got to be the going not just the gettin there that counts. And yes at any age you do have the responsibility to make this world a better, safer place to live.

[@NorCal-refrigeration]

Every day is a school day works every day 🤘⚡️🤘✨✨✨

[@moppedbuaontour]

It‘s great to hear, that two guys in the same age (I‘m 63) on two different continents (I live in Austria -Europe) have EXACTLY the same thoughts about stepping a little bit down when growing older. I did it 2 years ago and traded my R1250RT for a Moto Guzzi V85TT and I know, this was a VERY good decision.🤗

[@Shorekah]

I write this comment because I like your theory of life and your beautiful ideas about riding, I am 40 years old and I love riding a lot in my country, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, a new subscriber to the channel and I am always happy to follow everything new, may you always be good

[@shaunlayton9814]

Well said I only past my test in November at 60 and I’m loving it

[@905vapes9]

I think my biggest hurtle being a fairly young rider at 31 years old that has been riding my whole life is to stop making excuses to not take the motorcycle weather it be oh the weather isn’t looking that nice or that I’d have to move a vehicle to get the bike out of the garage etc etc. this year I made a promise to myself to take a bike everywhere I possibly could. I have a VStar 1100 and a Honda st1100 and combined I’ve put 25000-30000km on the bikes since April till now and only about 1500 km on my pickup truck. It has been a life changing experience this year to be able to take a ride after a hard days work and take the long way home from work. Or just after supper to take the wife for a short 50-60km ride. It really has changed my life for the better.

[@defaultuser3410]

Good advice! I'm 56, finally discovering this positive attitude. I keep losing it and having to find it again, but I'm working on it.

[@MikeViewR]

That's a beautiful video essay. It really resonated with me.

[@rjo2020]

On Target! I've had to suspend riding the mountains and valleys of the EU for a while due to illness. But, I do plan to get back in the mix once I'm well enough to saddle up again. I'm 72, retired, and enjoy riding the roads here for the most part. When I'm able again, I'll be putting your ideas to good use. I believe they work Well for me!

[@haroldyazzie3538]

Nice! That's some encouraging advice 😊

[@olliechristopher467]

Thank you Craig, I admittedly struggle to not be angry at what is happening around me. Deep breaths and counting to 10 is my backup.....

[@karenshoucairmcgray4902]

You are absolutely right! 😊

[@podrooga]

71 with a 92R100R! (bought it new). I stumbled on your videos and love them! I am struggling with myself whether to buy my next "last motorcycle" but leaning toward keeping this one. Your attitudes for riding longer and being happier video is great. Thank you!

[@terrymagee1431]

Thanks for posting this. Just turned 60 and I've been struggling with some of these issues.

[@e.j.c1795]

Love your philosophy brother, really enjoying your vids, waving a hand from Cali 😊

[@mkelley51]

Great advice! I try not to worry about world news. I stopped watching network news because I would get pissed off at some crap the president or congress were doing or not doing. I see people on FB crying the blues over current affairs. And they think if you’re not like them you’re a sheeple. I feel so much better! Been doing this for a few years.

[@bajamcguide]

I appreciate you. Now is our time. Thanks for sharing your outlook. Just turned 65, heading to La Paz Baja next week.

[@richardhowe6218]

I just recently retired. I've been riding since I was 14. I'm now 68. All of the things you mentioned are right on!. Thank you for your videos! People who just started riding, asked me for advice. I tell them, pretend that you are invisible, that every car does not see you. Also, pretend that the cars around you are drunk, stoned or are texting. This attitude has save my but many times. Hope to see more videos! Thanks again!

[@robgreggs4933]

Escaping from the hamster wheel . spinning the hamster wheel of our own choosing.

[@brucehelppie6119]

i would love to get back on a motorcycle, but my wife's health issues make that a no go. you hit many great points. i've owned many bikes and one group that can never be pleased is the harley riders. you're never biker enough to suit most of those people. if you ride some other type of bike, the harley riders will hate on you, but the rest of the motorcycle people out there won't seem to care. i've tried to adopt that attitude of not trying to solve the world's problems either. i've owned several harleys and still like the bikes, just not the fake tough guy attitudes.

[@mattdonna9677]

You have a lot of company in regard to noticing other H-D owners who allow the brand of a motorcycle determine how they behave toward others. It's juvenile, a few H.O.G. functions I attended were the worst. They hated my V-Max, L.O.L. 😊

[@brucehelppie6119]

@@mattdonna9677 They even hate each other. A guy riding a Sportster is riding ‘a girl’s bike’. I think some of the new Sportsters are pretty cool, and I’ve owned both Sportsters and Big Twins. Lots of dumb conformity in that crowd.

[@painsrides3616]

I don't know if its because I'm mostly Italian but I'm not happy, unless I'm mad about something.... 🤣😂 Humor, sarcasm and the motorcycle's passing power....These, my friend, get me through most of the "situations" I encounter on the bike and in life. Years ago, I was having a discussion with someone that was miserable about everything(I'm sure you know the type), it occurred to me they didn't really have a passion, just a lot of built up anger at not having a way to enjoy living. That's when this came too me; "Enjoying life is a nice theory,...but riding a motorcycle is a tool to actually do it" 😎

[@chrisdecker1443]

Wise advise. I have a 05 Harley ultra classic and I have tweaked it. The bike is heavy and I still love it, but yesterday I bought a 2023 Honda crf 300L . Its an endure, I have looked at accessories for it, its light and a little tall, but I have plans. Well, i have decided to go the back roads, not trails, i could with this bike. I still want the since of freedom and exploration in my life. I'm come up on 57, I have has anot of trial and tribulations in life, just like anyone else. So, I have decided to keep going with the rubber down, just a little slower and a hell of a lot lighter. I've enjoyed your wisdom and your videos. Thanks old friend. Keep riding.

[@wayne1559]

very good advice ,I"m 70 and just did a trip from Buffalo NY to New River gorge national park. had a great time. took my time and enjoyed the ride!

[@lesgillard985]

Your on target mate. Don't let other people's dreams become yours.😊

[@NobodyWhatsoever]

Something about this definitely resonated with me, and yes, I have to check my own attitudes sometimes. That said ... here's what came to mind. I grew up with a mother who was stressed out at everything. Anything she ever did, she somehow managed to "fight" her way through it -- her word. If she ran an errand, she had to "fight" to get ready, "fight" traffic on the way there, "fight" to find a place to park, "fight" the crowd in the store, "fight" the line at the register, and "fight" traffic on the way home. Everything she did seemed to be a stress and a struggle. I decided back when I was a teenager, I wouldn't let it become a fight. Yes, sometimes there are difficulties. Yes, sometimes circumstances can be stressful. But guess what? We're all out there just doing our thing, going where we need to go next, running errands, stopping for a bite to eat or pay a bill, whatever. And I think that has helped me keep from developing that same kind of attitude. What tends to get to me these days is when people seem to be lacadaisical in their behaviors, to be on-topic, especially while driving. They'll cut into the oncoming lane when making a left turn, frequently swerve out of their lane in curves, and generally not pay attention. I've had far too many near-wrecks this past year alone thanks to such behaviors, and it seriously irks me sometimes. I have to learn more often to, "Let that shit go," and though I usually do, it's sometimes difficult.

[@eliut6855]

Spot on dude! I’m turning 55, already did a long motorcycle trip, méxico to chile, at 50 years on a small 125 suzuki. Damn that Ed March and his crappy c90 he sort of convinced me to do it. I just bought a himalayan, also slow but much more capable, and i’m planing to go north this time cross usa west to east and canadá east to west go as far north as possible see the aurora borealis. This will happen when i’m 60. And you are right I tend to worry about stuff I can’t control, will follow your advice. Cheers

[@joelahnstein2281]

as usual, a super video. been totally retired for about 7 years now. it's taken me that long to understand one reason we curmudgeons are so surly at the world. it's because we have forgotten that we are no longer driving the bus. or 'in charge' whatever that means for you. the world behind us, i.e., younger that we pooh - pooh, are reaching for the leadership positions and 'control' (again, whatever that means) AS THEY SHOULD BE. if we trained / raised them well, they will do good. if we didn't, there's not much we can do about it except keep our heads downs. like you said, we need to let go, in this case, the reins. when i realized this my BP went down 10 points. that doesn't mean we can't hold opinions and discuss them with out contemporaries and IF we are asked offer those up based on our experience, training, and education. so, as you say, ride our own ride and do so in all aspects of life. cheers