So I've recently acquired a new job, or new responsibilities at a current job. I'm now working in the office for the MSF School where I work as a RiderCoach. If you ever call Bay Area Motorcycle Training in S. San Francisco, you might hear me on the other line as your friendly customer service agent. This is the first time that I've had all motorcycle-related jobs. I'm so happy I don't have to work for a company or ceo that I despise. Yep, despised. I actually care about new students and helping them get signed up for MSF classes. I'm also going to be working at the Int'l Motorcycle Show in San Mateo (11/20-11/22) in the Club Connection booth, and potentially the women's center. And, I'm still working part time at Scuderia a couple Saturdays a month. By the way, Open House is Saturday, November 7th. Mark your calendars!
With my new job comes a new commute of 16 miles each way. It's been awhile since I had a daily moto commute, but it's been easy to adjust to. I love being able to ride my bike every day. At my previous job, I worked only 1 mile from the office. It was a blessing and a curse. I really missed riding every day. My new commute is the perfect distance, not too long, not too short. I have already learned quite a few things with this daily ride:
- People in cars DON'T know how to drive. Every time I come up to a sweeping curve, or a tight S turn, all I see are people braking into the corners. No one looks up from their newspapers, coffee cups and cell phones long enough to look ahead of the corner and see what's coming. If I'm not too careful, I can see myself falling into the horrible trap of braking all the way through my turn instead of accelerating all the way out of it.
- A neck warmer is a crucial accessory for the morning commute. Nothing like cold air blowing up your chin and on your neck. I'm contemplating getting a Rev'it Atlast H20.
- A Givi top box is BADLY needed. I'm giving in and getting a 39liter Monolock. I always told myself that I'd never violate the aesthetic of my bike with a topbox, but f*ck it. My neck and back can't take it anymore. I've always wanted somewhere to stash a pair of high heels, my purse and a cute jacket to change into so I can show up looking like a girl when going to dinner or meeting friends, instead of someone who looks as if she just jumped off a ski slope.
- When it's pouring rain out, it's best to dry off before attempting to ride again, especially in the evening. I rode down to San Jose in the rain, but didn't dry off all the way by the time I had to go back up. I was so cold that I had to pull over halfway home and meet up with my husband at the college where he teaches AfterEffects classes.
- A heated vest will be required once the temps drop. Especially if I continue commuting the rain. (Yeah! It's not that bad, with the right gear ;D ) I'm barely keeping up with 60 degree weather. If it goes down to 50s, I definitely need to upgrade asap. I'm a wuss, born and raised in CA!
- Daytona Ladystar boots are insanely waterproof! I rode in the pouring rain, riding 50-60mph, with not a drop of water getting through these boots. If you're going to ride every day, in all weather conditions, you really need these boots.
I feel like every day I commute, I figure out something else about me, my bike or the people around me. I look forward to posting more observations as I ride even MOAR!
