More Ontario Riding

This is the third multi-day trip I make with my motorcycle. Just like the past ones, my family, and my wife specially, worry about me. All these news reports of fatal collisions on a motorcycle. It certainly keeps me on my toes. I sincerely believe a lack of concentration is quite often the cause of most collisions. An acquaintance once told me that in order to ride a bike, you always have to be “on”. Awareness has to always be at 100%. After doing some research, it seems most fatal collisions are due to a lack of properly managing risk. Do our best to wear proper gear, maintain good riding skills, always plan for the unexpected, and avoid any alcohol. As much as I try to comfort them, they still worry. In addition to using the “Find my friend” feature on my phone for them to track me, I plan on checking in with them every day, as much as I can.

Packing last night was a breeze, since I already had experience on trips like this. I just pulled up my checklist. I got up before dawn to load up my bike. The air was cool and crisp. Perfect weather for a riding trip. I look forward to the open road and the adventure.

As I start to ride at the crack of dawn, I realize sitting on the bike, hands on the grips and riding down the highway, that this is my home for the next five days. Just like I’m sitting at my desk for work, and on the couch relaxing at home, I’m now sitting on the bike for most of the day, for the next five days. After four seasons with the Bonnie, this is getting really comfortable.

Not too long ago, as I was enjoying a ride down a parkway after work, I was overwhelmed with a feeling of gratitude for being able to experience riding with this particular motorcycle: a Triumph Bonneville T120. It’s the perfect motorcycle for me: right size, power and style. When I imagine a motorcycle, the look of this bike comes to mind. It’s also very versatile: awesome for nice leisurely rides, good for commuting, great for long trips. It also has a great sound. I specially enjoy sharing the ride with a passenger, and the bike is great when riding two up.

As I leave town, I notice some foggy patches in the countryside. The temperature also drops: it’s getting cold! I guess Fall is on its way. I stop to warm up at Timmies in Renfrew.

I have a Bluetooth system in my helmet. It allows me to enjoy music when riding and also can make and receive calls. This time, however, I decide not to play music and just fully enjoy the experience. I practice deep circular breathing to sharpen my focus.

My current plan is to go visit Manitoulin Island, in Lake Huron, one of the Great Lakes of North America. I’ve only heard good things about the island, so this would be perfect for the five days I have.

On the way there, my route takes me through Algonquin Park on Highway 60. I love this park. The road is well-maintained and has long, sweeping curves that cut through lush forest-covered hills and bogs. A third of the way through the park, I spend some time at the Visitor Centre, enjoying the exhibitions and the breathtaking view of the park behind the centre.

Leaving the park, I decide to go down highway 35 again, as I remember enjoying it two years ago. It’s just as enjoyable this time.

After riding in some traffic getting to Barrie, I start to plan for camping this evening. I found a nice quiet campground just on the other side of Meaford. Unfortunately, as I set up camp, I realize I won’t stay out too long: I attract lots of large mosquitoes! Better remember to bring Deet next time.

It’s been a wonderful first day of riding: the roads were great, and the bike rides like a charm. I’m so grateful to have the time to experience this again, and I look forward to where the ride will take me tomorrow.