While in India last year, an intriguing conversation I had with a fellow traveler planted the seed of motorcycling in my mind. It was during my travels through Rajasthan, where this individual spoke about their own motorcycle expedition around the golden triangle. Hearing their tales of adventure, I couldn’t help but think, “If they could do it, why can’t I do the same?” I wasn’t necessarily going to return to the same area but Laos, Cambodia, or Vietnam might be good places to do something similar.
When I returned home, I looked into how much it might cost to get started. I had no idea how expensive it would be. I needed to take an MSF course, get all of the requisite safety gear, get a license, and get some experience (which meant buying a bike).
Here is a break-down of the costs up until this point:
| Education | ||
| Ride Alive Motorcycle Academy | $280 | $280 |
| Gear | ||
| Sedici Strada II Primo Prestigio Helmet | $169.97 | |
| BILT Techno 2 Jacket | $125.99 | |
| BILT Pro Tourer Waterproof Boots | $89.99 | |
| AXIAL AX2 Back Protector | $31.49 | |
| REAX Castor Perforated Gloves | $89.99 | |
| Body Guard Pullover Hoodie | $228 | |
| Syphon SoundPro | $199 | $934.43 |
| Membership | ||
| RPM | $59.99 | $59.99 |
| Motorcycle | ||
| Motorcycle (inc tax, licensing, etc) | $3,100 | $3,100 |
| Total | $4,374.42 | |
So, I have effectively paid over $4,000 on the prerequisites for a theoretical trip. Luckily, I have become a bit fond of the hobby and I have been riding to the office when I can. I’m already thinking that a second bike might be in my distant future.
The expense might mean that I can’t travel as much, though.