Mira Mesa Bike Night

This was my first "bike night" experience. What a new situation for me!

It takes place once a week in a shopping plaza just off the 15 high-way next to a Starbucks. Guys & gals from all around show up on their rides. They share parking spaces and gather around discussing life, politics, bikes, and racing. It's a chance for them to socialize in their sub-culture; in their element. They all share the passion for the open road. They take pride in what they ride and seem dedicated to this lifestyle. Their zeal is contagious!

I showed up around 7Pm, got a cup of joe and made small talk with one of the guys. He was open to "outsiders" and made me feel welcome. He walked me over to a group of guys who asked me about the Spyder. They appreciated the style of the roadster; albeit they are "purists" two wheeling advocates. All they've known is light, fast bikes that you can pull wheelies on. One guy asked, "How heavy is the Spyder?". "The dry weight is around 700lbs" I said. "I would cut off the exhaust and this and that... and could get it down to 600lbs". I laughed. These guys are hard core.

Another guy spent some time with me. He was very interested... wanted to hear the engine run, see the trunk space, and know everything about it. It sounded like his wife wanted him to be on something safer. He was looking for something different, something like the "Y"-Factor!

Buck showed up and we chatted with the bikers for a while. I was impressed with how friendly everyone was. I felt like they welcomed us into the club. That brings up an interesting observation. Since I've been riding the Can-Am Spyder around, I get nods and waves from other bikers. It's like what my buddy says who owns a Jeep Wrangler. "It's a Jeep thing". He says Jeep owners wave at each other and are courteous on the road. I'm sensing the same thing with those on 2 & 3 wheels.

There were around 30-40 bikers and I spoke with 10 or so and gave out a bunch of literature.