Attitudes for Riding Longer and Being Happier

As we age not only should we be aware of our physical and mental fitness for riding, but we can also make some changes in how we think about riding and about life in general to stop fighting and live in the moment. At least that is what I have tried to do.
SEVEN ATTITUDES AND BEHAVIORS TO KEEP YOU SAFE!
• Seven Attitudes and Be...
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Thank you for watching and ride safe! --Craig Ripley

[@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.

[@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.

[@bobboileau8318]

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

[@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!

[@johnenglish1575]

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

[@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.

[@parclan]

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

[@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!

[@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!

[@richardmcgrath61]

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

[@tnetroP]

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

[@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

[@user-st4gq2ox8m]

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...

[@Crimepaysaskapolitician]

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.

[@user-st4gq2ox8m]

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

[@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…👍🏼✌🏼

[@christopherkim8796]

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

[@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.

[@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?

[@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...

[@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!

[@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" 😎

[@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.

[@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.

[@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.

[@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.

[@hrmacdonald4471]

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

[@I_am_archie]

Hey, there's the Vision 🤠👍

[@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

[@MrLeo3D]

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

[@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!! 👍

[@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.

[@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.

[@TheTunnellTake]

More motorcyclist awesomeness!

[@chrispulham4779]

Hi, i agree 100%. Im 73yrs old and brought a new RE INTERCEPTOR 650 and loving it. I just love going for my rides as being single i only have my 2 dogs to think of. I live in Queensland, Australia so we ride all year round. I'll never sell my bike till i can't handle it anymore. Enjoy life man! 👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👐

[@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.

[@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.

[@zionvillegirl]

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

[@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.

[@_Corsa]

The more I let go, the more peace and happiness enters my life. Your video is real talk for the real world, no bullshit. Subscribed.

[@ListenMySon]

Who knew this would also be a philosophy channel? Great stuff!

[@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.

[@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.

[@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.

[@seller559]

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

[@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!

[@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.

[@fredweber3654]

Well said👍. I'm 73 and enjoy still riding!

[@chipgroff9664]

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

[@sanatandharma4435]

Wow! Many thanks indeed for this post. I am 61 now, I had a heart attack last year and feel tired alot and that gets me down. I teach science here in Spain, a beautiful country and have been reforming a rural house in the mountains whilst working full time and realised that I am not thirty years old!!! Burn out, I think they call it! I am shattered!!! I know work four days a week as I was becoming really stressed. I bought an e bike last week to help my heart and my stress levels and fell off at speed and fractured My shoulder, and have bruises all over! It hurts!! When the Doctor was stitching my elbow I was laughing at the irony of it all!! She found it hard to believe. You are right, do what YOU love.

[@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.

[@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.

[@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.

[@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.

[@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.

[@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.

[@martinwall7297]

I'm 68yo. been riding motorcycles for 55 years and it's never too late to learn or stop learning as you pointed out. great advice keep going and if you ever want to go for a ride get me, nothing like leaving it all behind.

[@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👍

[@lesgillard985]

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

[@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!

[@anthonyh7698]

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

[@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 .

[@glennsmith1040]

Couldn't agree with you more.

[@albertsanchez8007]

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

[@WRXXXual]

I'm a 42 year old man, and I have to say: this was one of the most impactful videos I have had the pleasure of experiencing in a long while. Thank you very much for taking your time to create such a great message. I sincerely appreciate it, and needed to listen to your words.

[@LivingOffTheSlab]

Thank you so much!

[@JosephStanek-jj3uo]

42 isn't even close to being old... check back in 20 years.

[@WRXXXual]

@@JosephStanek-jj3uo I was going to say something... but... it's just not worth it. You do you, boo.

[@JosephStanek-jj3uo]

@@WRXXXual yet you did say something then denied it... what a weird thing to reply to... like anyone would be adverse to not being closer to dearh.

[@jestofreestone1]

9:12 ha ha thats awesome! "f this". I burst out laughing hearing that. well done sir. well done.

[@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🏍️🐻

[@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.🤗

[@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.

[@uglyboysmallz3845]

We’ll spoken. I don’t pay attention to my calendar age anymore, we’re as old as we feel inside. I choose to be happy and positive, it adds years to one’s life. I ghost drama, it just ages people so much faster. I always try to suggest to other riders not to let the road rage take over, just keep it all business and let it go. With a cool head we make better riding decisions. Good video.

[@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

[@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.

[@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.

[@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.

[@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.

[@kevinharmon8885]

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

[@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!

[@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.

[@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.....

[@charlesdooney3350]

I think you are spot on

[@BriKinsella]

You've really hit on something with you subject matter, it's a refreshing change to find a biking KZbinr doing such a thing. Contentment, it just can't be beaten and can be found within, without like you say, chasing what is perceived of being the way we should do things. There's something very satisfying about being this age and we should enjoy living in the moment because....we assume life will continue as it has....until it doesn't! Thanks for another great video 🤗

[@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.

[@eddievanpachtenbeke1870]

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

[@mikes_cigar_lounge.]

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.

[@BonesKitchens]

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

[@cfrias99]

All good points. Thank You

[@SlowRiderDucati]

I agree, I turned 60 years old in January 2023. I bought myself a 2023 Ducati Diavel V4 and hit the road on my first street bike. After 8,500 miles it's been the best decision of my life. I ride every day every where for any excuse. I work full time remote so I can go wherever I want when I want. I agree with spacing out the ride mileage but getting in consistent miles. I am the old grey beard at work so I basically function as a consultant and let the young guns do all of the heavy lifting and worrying. Slow Rider out.

[@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

[@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.

[@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.

[@stevebratten6592]

More wisdom from “The Beard”! A good book that explains this stuff is “Strength to Strength” by Arthur Brooks. If I had read it when I was 40 I might have been happier at 50🤣 (it wasn’t written then)

[@davidcox8961]

Ride your own ride is a good motto I think. I just got my learners permit at age 75. Haven't rode a bike for about 35 years. Never had a MC lesson before now. Great idea for all riders. Cars drivers ought to be required to retest. Perhaps they'll kill fewer people?

[@wingandhog]

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

[@shaunlayton9814]

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

[@Richard-vz1fy]

Very sage observations and comments! I agree, and at 55 am really looking forward to the freedom of retirement. I think your daily timetable while travelling is spot on.

[@bajamcguide]

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

[@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.

[@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!

[@MikeViewR]

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

[@rayman5625]

I deal with bad drivers by remembering this. On a day ride here in California I drive back roads, in the course of the ride I figure I encounter at least 4 to 5 thousand vehicles along my route. Averaging 2 or 3 "near incidents" never my fault. So I tell myself 99.9% of drivers are doing the right thing.

[@albertleffler962]

Always reforming. Absolutely.

[@DavidDaverso]

You nailed it. I will consider your points as an aging motorcyclist with passions such as yours.