Monday morning, Memorial Day 2025. I had started the day with a bit of negativity and feeling a little low. After a day of rain, I was not sure if I was mentally up for a long ride; a road trip. Saturday I did a sunset ride throughout James Island and North Charleston clocking about 40 miles. For my Memorial Day ride, my plan was to go as far as I could and beat my 40 mile trip record. I loosely put a route together in my head. I wanted to ride to Ravenel, South Carolina. Ravenel, South Carolina is a beautiful country community that is home to some stunning country roads and the last gas stop before Beaufort, South Carolina. Riding out to Ravenel is amazing. I had done it before on my Moto Morini, my first motorbike. But now, armed with a 900cc’ed Bonneville engine, I wanted to take Lucy, my new 2024 Triumph Speed Twin 900, out of her comfort zone of Charleston. Honestly, I have only completed commute and sunrise/sunset rides with her. It was time to put Lucy to the test, as well as me, on the big open country roads of the Lowcountry.

Arriving at Folly Beach early Memorial Day, I knew this was the perfect place to start my road trip. After a coffee and a bottled water, I quickly opened Google Maps on my iPhone and typed in Ravenel. To my surprise Google Maps suggested a time of about 45 minutes covering about 30 miles to Ravenel. “Perfect!” I said to myself. Smashing the started button on Lucy, knocking her into first gear, I rolled the throttle and was on my way to Ravenel. I will admit a bit of nerves hit me hard as I was riding. I hadn’t ridden to Ravenel since I had my Moto Morini. Back then, it had been another Monday holiday, and winds where strong that day. I experienced strong wind blasts that day that made for a very demanding ride, both mentally and physical. A 650cc’ed engine which the Moto Morini was, had a terrible time in those conditions. Would it be the same this day? On Lucy, a 900cc’ed Bonneville engine? I was going to fine out.

Passing 526 overpass, Highway 17 towards Ravenel really opens up. Stoplights are few and riding through the Lowcountry with the surrounding beauty of marshes was a treat. But this being my first big ride on Lucy, my brain had to adjust, as well as me. I quickly found out of much time slows down on the open road. Your inner thoughts start to pepper your imagination and I briefly had to tighten my grips on the handlebars to get focused. I recalled memories of driving cross country but unlike driving a car, your hands don’t have the luxury to play with the dashboard giving yourself a few moments to take your mind of driving. With motorcycling, your hands must remain in contact with the handlebars and your focus must always be in front of you. I had to get present. Be in the moment. I decided to take in the sites and cruise about 50-60 mph allowing myself to see the beauty that was all round me. The views from a motorcycle are very impressive. Quickly I started to relax and soon found myself holding my own on the open road. Sure cars and trucks passed me by and the wind blasts hit me hard but Lucy was steady as a rock. Maybe it’s the low center of gravity or design of Lucy, but not once did I fear loosing control of her. Reaching the Blue Water gas station off Highway 17 while passing the sign for the town of Ravenel, I was euphoric. Parking Lucy at Blue Water, I checked my watch and to my surprise I had arrived 10 minutes early. Now it was time get a Payday candy bar, another coffee and bottled water. “Let’s celebrate,” I said to myself. I also took note that Lucy reached about 50 miles to the gallon. Incredible! I didn’t need to fill up and could start my way home.

Heading home I decided to take a detour and ride through Hollywood, South Carolina along Route 162. Hollywood is another country town in the Lowcountry that provides a very scenic ride. Also, no stoplights on Route 162, so I could really let Lucy rip. On my way home, I was filled with so much confidence from reaching Ravenel, that leaving Hollywood, I merged back onto Highway 17 and the nerves I felt heading to Ravenel disappeared. I felt at peace. I felt in control and above all, I accomplished a important goal in my motorcycle career; I had just finished my first road trip with Lucy. Clocking over 60 miles, I pulled into my Mom’s driveway in one piece, me and my bike. “Thank you Lord!” I called out looking up at the sky. Quickly I open Google Maps again, and began plotting my next road trip. “Let’s hit 100 miles Mr. Young,” I said to myself. Long live the open road!

Rolf

It was only a matter of time until I started dreaming of another Triumph motorbike to add to my collection. Now, don’t get me wrong, Lucy, the Triumph Speed Twin 900 that I currently own, checks all the boxes for me. It handles beautifully. The power is intoxicating, and the look of the Lucy is lovely. Yet, I looked around my mother’s garage the other day, and thought, “I could move those two bicycles my mom has to the backyard, tarp them, and there would be space for another motorcycle.” Thus, the seed was planted, and I began searching Charleston Triumph’s website for ideas. I played around with the thought of owning another Bonneville, the classic P-Twin engine, but then I thought, how about a sports bike? I would be in my 50’s by the time I would be purchasing another bike, and the idea of owning a sports bike, in my middle 50’s seemed like a good idea, briefly. Yet, I soon realized a 50-year-old on a sports bike is kind of a bad idea. Plus, if I wanted to tour, say travel to California and back, a sports bike or Lucy might not be the ideal situation for me. So, I decided to take a hard look at the Tiger model of motorcycles by Triumph. The Tiger is Triumph’s adventure motorbike that Triumph has been making for over 20 years. If you are unfamiliar with the adventure class of motorcycles, it is a premium bike featuring all types of designs and capabilities to suit a rider who wants to travel far, on and off the road. This felt like the next step in my motorcycle career.

The thing about the Tiger models, especially the 900 and 1200, is that they are BIG BIKES. My first time seeing a Triumph Tiger 1200 I couldn’t get near the thing. I was scared to death. Yet, having a few months of motorcycle experience, owning a Triumph, and feeling more confident, I visited Charleston Triumph the other day and immediately hopped on a used Tiger 1200. I was extremely proud of myself for not hesitating and just diving into the moment. To see such a big bike, and then think you could ride this beautiful machine, I give myself a high-five for showing no fear. Impressive was my first thought. Not only did the 1200 feel amazing, but the suspension relaxed a bit as I mounted the 1200. Now mounting a big bike takes a skill. I had to readjust my tradition of just throwing a leg over a motorcycle, and gently angle my approach. But I did it!

The size and scope of this adventure bike is not for the weary type. You MUST want to ride this baby. Quickly I realized how large the fuel tank was and found out it was just over 7 gallons. 7 gallons of gas! On a motorcycle! Man, the mileage I could go on a Tiger 1200 got my heart singing. Quickly, I moved the handlebars around and the 1200, which weighs just about 600 pounds, felt light and nimble. So surprised was I. I took note of all the creature comforts. Cruise control, heated grips, heated seats, electronic suspension, various riding modes, large windscreen, and that is the just a small part of what is available on both the 900 and 1200 Tiger models. As one YouTube reviewer put it, “The Tiger 900 is the small SUV of the motorbike world.”

On my visit to Charleston Triumph, after sitting on the used Tiger 1200, I walked into the shop and made my way other to both the new the ’24 and ’25 900/1200 Tiger Models. Each model stood out. Each provided a window into a brighter future filled with long travels, twisty roads, dirt adventures, and seeing America from the comfort of a lovely Triumph. But what caught my eye was the incredible bright red paint job on the Tiger 900. This is where I really smiled. Seeing the bright red finish on the ’25 900, I felt my soul bounce with excitment. Now the ’24 Tiger 1200 was beautiful as well in matte green. Looking like a military convey, I definitely felt the tactical nature of this beautiful machine. But, man, there is something about a bright red paint color on a motorbike. Thank Ducati for that LOL.

Sitting on the 900 for the first time I found how much slimmer it was compared 1200. The fuel tank is about 5 gallons. The front wheel is a 19″ over the 21″ front of the 1200 and there is a chain compared to the shaft drive of the 1200. The ideal of having to care for the chain every 300 miles while doing a long tour feel short for me. But honestly how hard is it to carry a can of chain lube in my luggage and just stop and tend to the chain on the 900. Yet, a shaft drive on the 1200 really makes more sense for the distance rider at heart. Just ride baby! No chain maintenance.

Comparing the 900 to 1200 it’s really about what I would like to do honestly as a rider. Though I was attracted to the 900 is terms of visual appeal, the bright red paint job is so nice! But the 1200 is a pure bliss. And the price difference is about $4k between the 900 and 1200. My idea to tour the United States of American in the next few years by motorcycle, means riding backroads and highways in all weather conditions. Having a big meaty 1200 under me might be the way to go. And that 1200 sure is nice…as well as the 900 too. Just going to have to test ride them both to find out which one to go with.

I started my Sunday ride with a bit of nervous energy. I quickly rode over to a local pizza shop parking lot, and practiced a few slow speed maneuvers. Slow speed maneuvers always allows me to settle into my ride, relax and, focus. I had a big day in front of me. I would be riding in my first group ride, the 2025 Distinguished Gentleman’s Ride (DGR) hosted by Charleston Triumph. With this known to me, I had to settle down and get in my bubble. I reference “bubble” as a metaphor for focusing on what is happening in front of me during a ride, and letting go of distractions. Seeing some lovely flowers along the road or an animal digging a hole, can all lead to a few moments of lost focus, which is dangerous. Failure to obey the present moment, getting lost in the surroundings, can create a troubling experience on two-wheels. I would need to be in my bubble the next few hours.

Arriving at Charleston Triumph a few minutes after 10am, I quickly realized how many other motorcyclists had arrived before me because the parking lot was full of motorbikes. This was an amazing sight to see. I was directed to a parking spot, near the front, and dismounted from Lucy, my 2024 Triumph Speed Twin 900. Listening to a live DJ playing some tunes made the vibe just right. As soon as I unlatched my helmet, got my motorcycle gloves off, I felt the sun and the heat beginning to intensify. It was going to be a hot one today. I checked in, grabbed a sticker, and walked swiftly over to the food truck for a much need bottled water. Still in my black motorcycle jacket, I knew I would need to hydrate as much as possible.

Mingling with the crowd, I introduced myself to a few other DGR riders and we spoke about our bikes. As much as I love riding, meeting fellow riders and speaking to them about their bikes really makes my heart sing. I was definitely in my element. “2 minutes everyone,” the announcer call out, and a strong wave of adrenaline filled my spirit. It was time to gear up, shut up, and ride. I hastily got myself ready, turned the ignition key, and pressed down on the starter button. Lucy fired up quickly. “Now what do I do?” I asked myself. Having never ridden in a group ride, I was completely unsure of when to leave my parking spot. I noticed other riders leaving the parking lot of Charleston Triumph forming a tight group and stopping. “Do I join them?” I asked myself. Remembering a few words from the MC of the event, the older bikes would be the first to leave. Then I heard the police escort arrive and quickly I joined the group exiting the parking lot. This was going to be very cool.

Departing Charleston Triumph, I slowly gained confidence with my abilities and played follow-the-leader with the motorcyclist in front of me. A few riders had been chosen before departing Charleston Triumph as our designated road blockers. This would mean, as the Police escorted the DGR down the road, a few riders would block cross traffic and allow all the DGR riders to safely ignored redlights and ride unstopped towards our first designation, the U.S. Customs House in Downtown Charleston. “Wow”, I thought, how cool is that. What was so impressive about the DGR is the sound of all the motorbikes riding down the road as one group, supporting men’s health, and forming a bond with each other. It would be an experience I would never forget.

Making our way to the U.S. Custom’s House in Downtown Charleston was very eventful. During a pre-ride check-in, our MC made it clear our route, and encouraged us to wave, honk our horns, and smile to the on-lookers. I did not expect the reaction of the folks on the streets who cheered us on as we made our way down King Street towards the battery. I must have showed the peace sign a few dozen times and pushed the button for my horn a few hundred times. It was grand. Parking outside the U.S. Custom’s House, on the sidewalk no less, the scope of the DGR was in full effect. We riders, ascended the steps of the Custom House for a group pic and I smiled the biggest smile in a long time. I felt the heat and humidity of the day, but the power of the DGR kept me cool and I looked forward to our final designation, the Royal American. An ice cold water, a bit of shade, a fan, maybe some AC, would be perfect to complete my first group ride ever. I was really looking forward to some shade 8)

Finishing up the DGR at the Royal American, I was able to thank the organizers, the other riders who did the road blocks, and speak with new friends about their bikes just as I had when we started. To be honest, it was magical and I have already bookmarked next year’s DGR. I will be looking forward to a new route and making new friends. Below are a few pics of classic motorbikes that rode in this year’s DGR in Charleston, South Carolina. Enjoy!

My motorcycle journey is, in short, overcoming fear. Maybe as a new rider, I just don’t have the confidence yet as fear tends to redirect my path of travel, avoiding areas that would make me uncomfortable. The fear I feel during my rides is also a welcome as it keeps me within my riding limits. Because at the end of the day, it is about getting home in one piece; for me and my motorcycle. But achieving my riding goals with each ride is helping me become a more confident rider. As my boss says to me, “one day you will need to get on the highway”. While highways miles is something I am working on, breaking apart my fears into manageable goals is what I am about as a motorcyclist.

This past Saturday, before the sunrise, I decided it was time to face one of those fears. I decided to ride the entire span of the James Island Connector. The James Island Connector allows JI residents like me to quickly get to downtown Charleston or West Ashley, in a brief time. To my credit, the past week I decided to ride the Connector to the West Ashley exit as part of my commute to work. The West Ashley exit on the Connector is about the half way point. Early Saturday morning, I made up my mind to ride the entire Connector all the way to downtown Charleston. The JI Connector offers some of the best views of Downtown Charleston as well as the marina that makes Charleston so unique.

Before I left my mom’s house a wonderful feeling of calmness transcended me. I was relaxed. I was focused. I knew the task at hand. Riding along Folly Road, approaching the Connector, a spell of butterflies erupted in my stomach. My hands and feet started to tingle. Turning left onto the entrance to the Connector, I turned up the techno music I was listening to in my headphones, took some deep breathes, and rolled the throttle. Being so early there was very little traffic and the Connector was empty. Just my single headlight shinning on the two lanes heading towards Downtown. Passing the West Ashley exit I looked down at the long span of the Connector towards Downtown and a wave of confidence showered over me. I was making progress with personal riding fears about the Connector. I saw my end goal.

Taking a lovely big swooping right turn, I crossed into the far-right lane and traveled down from the Connector to Downtown. I did it! I traveled the entire span of the James Island Connector. As with anything while motorcycling the victories are sweet, often short, but the memory of making a personal breakthrough is an achievement I can proudly say I have done. And now it’s onto the next fear….

Rolf

Cleaning my motorbike is a passion of mine. Like cleaning my Nissan Murano, after a good scrubbing, vehicles just seem to run better. Maybe they know they are clean, and that feels good. So, when I was thinking about cleaning Lucy, my new 2024 Triumph Speed Twin 900, I immediately went to the Triumph owner’s handbook that came with my purchase of Lucy. To my surprise, the handbook went at length about specific areas to avoid while cleaning this lovely machine. In short, I had to rethink my process. When I owned my 2023 Moto Morini, I soaked that bike in all areas covering only the exhaust, battery, and ignition key. Triumph made it very clear to me that additional layers of protection would need to be made to minimize the impact to sensitive areas. I put down the handbook, and quickly realized I didn’t know how to clean Lucy without completely making myself a worry wort. I was stump. I watched a few videos on YouTube about cleaning a motorcycle, and each one ignored what the handbook told me. What would I do?

With some researching, I discovered a product called Vulcanet. A French based company that produces cleaning wipes for cars and motorbikes. I watched a few videos on Vulcanet, mostly in French, and slowly started to believe a cleaning solution for Lucy was at hand. Not only would the cleaning wipes by Vulcanet eliminate the need to hose off my bike, potentially harming parts of Lucy, Vulcanet also provides a microfiber cloth to wipe the surface after using the cleaning wipe, which results in a streak free finish. Gone are the need for buckets, and sponges. All you need is what comes in the Vulcanet tube. This seemed too good to be true. I order a tube of Vulcanet and started to strategize my cleaning methods with the wipes and microfiber cloth. Would this really work? I have tried cleaning wipes in the past, mostly for touching up the interior of my Murano. Though they did work, the wipes left streaks and the appearance was shitty.

Once the Vulcanet wipes arrived, I was impressed with the size. Not only is there plenty of wipes for a few cleaning sessions, but the microfiber cloth was big to allow me to believe I could get a good cleaning in on Lucy. I started with the gas tank and worked my way through the handlebars, seat, lights, and tail area. Vulcanet recommended to use 2-3 wipes for an entire bike. Vulcanet also recommended to use the old wipes on the wheels and undercarriage. I followed the advice and sure enough, I used only 3 wipes. My cleaning process was simple. Clean an area on Lucy, then wipe with the microfiber cloth. In less than an hour I had a clean bike. I even cleaned the real dirty areas like under the rear fender and bottom of the bike. Both of which cleaned up fabulously.

The cost of a tube of Vulcanet, with shipping is about $50. This can hurt a bit up front. I honestly feel I will be able to use the Vulcanet for at least 2-3 months depending on how frequently I wipe Lucy. The results were amazing. Dirt just lifted off the surface and a used wipe went a long way on the real nasty bits like the wheels and bottom of the bike. Again, the best practice is between rides. I plan to use Vulcanet once a week. But if things do get real dirty, I will go back to the old fashion way; two buckets, a hose, wash mitt, and automobile cleaner. Below is a list of things I noted about my experience.

A few things to think about:

• Works great on motorbikes with light road grime on them.
• I wouldn’t clean my car with this product. Stick to traditional methods.
• If your bike is caked with dirt best to use traditional methods.
• Works best in the shade like a garage.
• Don’t let the cleaning solution dry on the surface.
• My plan is to use this between rides to keep dirt, etc., down to a minimum.

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Process: 5/5

Cost: 3/5

Overall: 4/5

I was a bit skeptical when I first started considering installing a Quad Lock to my Triumph motorbike, Lucy. Yet, my desire to free my iPhone from my motorcycle jacket pocket, and use navigation and music apps during rides, only created a strong desire to improve my riding experience. Lucy does not have a internal nav system, so why not use Google Maps to help me explore more of the Lowcountry that I love. But would mounting a Quad Lock system to the handlebars of my new Triumph remove the retro aesthetic I love, and a major reason why I purchased this particular model. After a few rides, I am not only surprised how well the Quad Lock works, but marvel at the doors of possibility it is opening for me.

For those that are unfamiliar with Quad Lock, it is an Australian based company that designs mounting solutions for motorcycles and a whole host of other applications that I will not describe. This review is focused on what got Quad Lock going, developing a great product for motorcyclists. I was a bit aware of Quad Lock from all the YouTubers promoting it on their channels devoted to motorcycles. Not a single one of them had a bad thing to say. What is great, is Quad Lock fits almost every type of motorcycle. The mounting solutions are endless. From the picture above, my mounting solution was the most popular, mounting the Quad Lock to my handlebar. I choose the left side of the handlebar on Lucy because I would have more freedom with my left hand, as my right hand is occupied by the throttle. I decided to add an arm, and a vibration dampener to the mix. iPhones a very intelligent devices and I thought that the roads of Charleston would knock around my iPhone silly. Plus, repeated bumps without the vibration dampener might create internal damage to the iPhone. Best to be safe.

When I went to the Quad Lock website, you are provided with so many opinions. What is important is to pick the right case for you phone. My iPhone is an XR, and old model. And sure enough Quad Lock had a case for my specific phone. Next you choose your mounting head with two opinions, the original, which is a blue plastic release tab, or a metal one that includes a stronger head. Considering Quad Lock started with the blue plastic release tab, I went with this opinion. Next, I added an arm to give my iPhone a better view angle. That was one of main concerns I had, would I be able to view my iPhone while it was on the Quad Lock during a ride. I am happy to report that viewing directions while riding is very intuitive. Aside from my early user error of orienteering my Google Maps to true North, I was able to pull into a parking lot and quickly reset my Google Maps navigation icon to follow my path of travel. Quick heads up, DON’T TRY TO TWEAK SHIT while riding. I could adjust the volume, but that is about it. Make your decisions before hitting the road. Make adjustments when you come to a stop. I did have my Bluetooth earbuds in during my ride, and I could have had voice assist with my directions, but instead opted for music. When I travel to a new location, I will activate voice assist and see how that goes. But for now, I followed the blue line to my destination of Folly Beach without trouble. I do wish Google Maps had a motorcycle icon instead of just cars and trucks.

My final attachment for my Quad Lock setup was the “Poncho”. A plastic cover that sides over your phone during travels. Heads up, if you do plan to purchase the Poncho, the touch screen on your phone is completely useless. My work around, was to setup everything I needed, music, directions, and then add the Poncho as a final layer before departing. The Poncho is a great layer of protection for your phone while traveling. Remember the Quad Lock case doesn’t protect the screen. Sure your screen protector might do well while walking and talking, but the Poncho does a wonderful job and reducing harm while riding road or dirt. Just don’t expect to answer a call with your motorcycle gloves on.

In conclusion, I am very impressed with the Quad Lock. Once you get one, Quad Lock makes all types of products for your home/work, automobile, sporting activities, and of course motorcycles. The possibilities are really endless. Head over to Quad Lock’s website today and get quad locking y’all.

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Installation: 5/5

Useability: 5/5

Overall: 5/5

When I fired up Lucy, Sunday morning, a little after 6am, I felt that time away from my love of Sunday rides would be replenished. Little did I know that 4 hours later, standing in my mom’s garage, staring at Lucy, I would quickly realize how much my Sunday rides improve my outlook for the week ahead. For two months, while NOT riding on Sundays because my 2023 Moto Morini was a complete mess, I so longed for travel on two-wheels. This past Sunday renewed my spirit, blessed me with gratitude, increased my energy, and overall created a specific time for myself that allowed me to understand how important motorcycling is to me. There is a balance to motorcycling that weighs the extreme fun you can have, with the dangerous envelop motorcycling opens. I always accept the risk, pray to God before I leave, and that living with this risk while riding a motorcycle makes me feel so alive. It is very addictive and I am absolutely in love with Lucy.

I began my Sunday ride with about eight minutes of slow speed maneuvers in a empty pizza shop parking lot. Warming up with practicing turns, quick stops, weaves and other exercises on the bike helps me prepare for my Sunday ride, or any ride actually. After this, I filled up the gas tank and headed to Folly Beach for the first time with Lucy. With the sun rising I crossed into Folly Beach surrounded by peaceful water and beautiful marshes. I decided to head to the Washout, a local surfing spot, and parked Lucy near the beach. I took a few minutes to enjoy the beautiful sun glistening down on the ocean water as surfers quickly rode waves in a beautiful, mesmerizing dance above water. I marveled at effortless motion of the surfers and remembered my time twenty years ago as I surfed Folly Beach. I breathed in the warm salted air, closed my eyes, and knew it was time for coffee.

I knew the perfect spot for a snack and a large cup of joe. Highfalutin Coffee Roasters off Harbor View Road on James Island might be my favorite coffee spot. One of the reasons is Highfalutin has a large outdoor patio to enjoy your beverage and eats. With my redeye in had, a slice of banana bread, and a bottle of Sam Pellegrino, I sat in the sun and loved every minute of it. Once my snack was finished, I quickly launched Google Maps to see were I would like to go next. Part of my Sunday Rides is to leave room for the unknow. Though I plan the start, I don’t necessarily dictate the entire ride. I love to leave it up to chance. Looking at a map of Downtown Charleston, I knew that is where I wanted to go.

Riding a motorcycle through Downtown Charleston is wonderful. So much of Charleston downtown is built upon post Civil War architectures. Mixing modern taste, and old southern charm, Downtown Charleston should be on very rider’s wish list. Cruising past old cobble stone roads and world class restaurants, I decided, while riding along East Bay, in the heart of Rainbow Row, that another coffee stop would be needed. My only issue with Downtown Charleston, is the parking. Or lack of it. Sure there is plenty of garage parking, yet maneuvering a motorcycle in a parking garage is something I have not done yet nor do I want too. Finding street parking is very limited, and for better or worst, parking my brand new motorcycle on the street is not ideal for my mentality. Quickly, I decided a visit to the Orange Spot, in Park Circle, would be perfect. I rolled the throttle down King Street, heading to North Charleston, feeling excited for the ride ahead. Leaving Downtown thru King Street offers a unique idea of urban growth quickly giving way to the industrial areas of upper King Street. Entering Rivers Avenue from King Street gives a motorcycle rider, depending on the time of day, a great chance to give your bike the beans and get some speed. Passing a few dormant buildings, fast food chains, and retail stores, I turned sharply onto Remount Road and headed to Park Circle.

Another wonderful patio spot, a small cup of coffee, and another bottle of Sam Pellegrino, I found a great 30 minute window to relax and check the time at the Orange Spot. 10am! I was shocked. Almost four hours riding my new Triumph Speed Twin 900. I had to walk a little bit to stretch out my legs and start to process how incredible my Sunday ride had been. The various landscapes from the beach of Folly, the revolutionary buildings of Downtown, the industrial spaces of North Charleston, to the charming slice of Park Circle, I was completely amazed at it all. Yet, I knew that heading home was a priority now. Playing some techno in my earbuds, hearing the exhaust rubble to life, I knew Lucy and I would get home safety. Until the next Sunday comes, I will cherish this ride for the week, maybe for life.

Rolf

For two months my beloved Moto Morini became a source of frustration and unhappiness. As my first motorcycle, I developed a deep bond with this machine and discovered my passion for motorcycling, riding my Moto Morini all around the Lowcountry. Over bridges, through the ACE Basin, a short bit on I-26, and overall falling in love with life on two-wheels. I was looking forward to our 1 year anniversary together in August, but as faith would have it, this was not to be. Beginning in early March of this year, the Moto Morini started having issues that snowballed into a breakdown on Camp Road, followed by weeks of engine stalls and jerky riding. I did my best to trouble shoot as much of the difficulties as I could from YouTube videos as well as Reddit and Moto Morini forums. All of which lead me back to Charleston Triumph with hopes that new parts would save this bike for me. During the past month, I decided to revisit researching motorcycles. At the time I hadn’t thought of new bike, but was curious to see where my curiosity would lead me. I ended up visiting a few motorcycle dealerships in my area. I even blogged about my visit to Harley-Davidson, yet in the end their motorcycles didn’t fit my style.

Having visited Charleston Triumph many times since my purchase of my Moto Morini, I kept thinking about Triumph motorcycles. The retro styling and Bonneville engines made me believe my path to my second motorcycle would be through the gates a Triumph. But what Triumph bike? Having time during a service at Charleston Triumph, for my Moto Morini, I really started looking at the various Triumphs. You have Scramblers, Adventure Bikes called the Tiger, Speed Triples and Daytona’s the sport bike class, then other various models which all made me smile. Then, as I was walking the parking lot of Charleston Triumph, looking at all the used bikes, I found a used 2023 Triumph Speed Twin 900 which quickly became an obsession. Sitting on this motorcycle I instantly loved the low seating position, was amazed at how easy it felt to turn this machine, and the modern retro classic look just sent me over the moon. But, my Moto Morini was still my bike.

I would leave Charleston Triumph with my Moto Morini hitched to a U-Haul trailer on my way home clearly thinking about the used Triumph Speed Twin 900. A few days later while riding my Moto Morini to Folly Beach, I stopped at the Harris Teeter. Though the engine light was on, the Morini was running fine. I checked my phone and Dana, from Charleston Triumph, sent me a text. In short, Dana mentioned that he was curious to know if I was interested in any NEW Triumph motorcycles. Wow I thought. A new Triumph? I quickly replied back to Dana and after a few text message exchanges, Dana had a good idea of the Triumph I wanted, the Speed Twin 900. Dana let me know that he had a new 2024 Triumph Speed Twin 900 on the showroom floor, and to let me know if I was interested. Having sat on the used 2023 Speed Twin, a new model would be wonderful. But the Morini was running, so no reason to upgrade.

Within two weeks my beloved Moto Morini sat in my Mom’s garage, not running well and a hazard to ride. Thinking about the text message from Dana I decide that it might be time to trade-in the Moto Morini for the new 2024 Triumph Speed Twin 900. On April 22, 2025 I rode Lucy the Triumph Speed Twin 900 home from Charleston Triumph for the first time. Lucy is renewing my faith in motorcycling and I could be happier. Please give Lucy a warm welcome.

Rolf

As excited as I was a week ago to be back on my bike, a 2023 Moto Morini 650 SCR, it was short lived. As of last Saturday, my beloved Moto Morini is becoming more problematic that I care to think about. It is as if, after 3 thousand miles, my bike is just not wanting to ride anymore. I spent about a week trouble shooting all possibilities that I could source from Reddit, Google, and Moto Morini forums. I filled up the gas tank, checked the battery, inspected the air filter and air box, made sure all the cables and wiring were fit, and after a few tests rides my Moto Morini is scheduled for a shop appointment at Charleston Triumph. What is positive about my shop appointment is my new parts; new seat, new exhaust, and new handlebar risers have arrived at Charleston Triumph. I honestly feel that with these accessories added to my Moto Morini, and inspection into the mysterious troubles of my bike by pro mechanics, I hopefully will be able to ride my bike home after the appointment. At least that is my feeling.

So, what is the issue or issues Rolf? I am happy you asked. The main problem is with the engine stalling during rides and while idling. In short, the bike starts up, which is good, will run for a few minutes then die. In some cases, during my test rides, I would actually be riding along and when I made a turn, in first gear, the bike would quit on me. Lucky for me, I have chosen my neighborhood as my test ride territory, so I don’t have a bike dying on me while riding down a busy road. That would be a bit unpleasant. Compounding the problems, is I believe that catalytic converter is bad. Essentially the engine is having trouble breathing. Which in a way leads to engine failure. I am very familiar with a faulty catalytic converter. My old car, a 2009 Nissan Cube, had a bad catalytic converter and boy did that create an unpleasant ride. Again, as luck would have it, the new exhaust I ordered, and will be installed on my Moto Morini will replace the catalytic converter. This I hope leads to solution. But I am also thinking about trading in my Moto Morini.

During the past month of troubles with the MM, a salesperson from Charleston Triumph reached out to me and suggested that maybe I would like to trade in my Moto Morini for a green 2024 Triumph Speed Twin 900. I was flushed with excitement about this opportunity. I even went so far as filling out some paperwork to see if I qualify for financing the Speed Twin. A bike that fits my personally quite well. And as a rode my Moto Morini last night, with its jerky ride, engine stalls, and lack of willingness to ride, I told myself I love this bike. To trade-in this Moto Morini now would be heartbreaking. Yet the persistent troubles over the last month have led me to believe that maybe I own a lemon. Maybe these problems won’t go away after the upgrades. Maybe this Moto Morini is just cursed.

I watched a commercial for the Viking cruise line. While I don’t see myself as taking a cruise on a Viking ship anytime soon, the founder did offer some advice. What we don’t have enough of is time he said. That is very true. While I hope that my 2023 Moto Morini will get fixed and things will improve, there is something honest about the situation that maybe this bike is a lemon. And I don’t really have more time for lemons. It might be better to cut my loses and get myself a new bike. I am thinking of the color green might be in my future.

Rolf

Spring has arrived and I am happy to say I am back on my bike! After a few weeks of waiting for new tires, a runnability test performed by my favorable local dealership Charleston Triumph, then a check engine light that mysteriously came on, and to my happiness, turned off. What I am learning about my beloved Moto Morini over the past month is, my motorcycle hates to be parked in my mom’s garage for extend periods of time. Releasing my bike from the garage after such a long hiatus, my bike develops, what I call the “Italian Attitude”. The engine will sound angry and the bike will be unhappy until I ride her. Checking the Moto Morini forums the best thing to do is keep all the fluids level, a full tank of gas, and ride my bike like it’s my last ride. I am happy to say that as of today, everything is working. Praise God!

Throughout the month of April, I will be making some upgrades to my Moto Morini that will transform my bike into a whole new machine. I am excited for this and with the new riding season, I look forward to rolling the throttle with my new upgrades. I will say that my new tires, Bridgestone Battlax AdventureCross Scrambler, have offered a smooth ride compared to the original rubber I had on my bike. These tires have improved my riding experience while on the road, which is where 90% of my riding takes place.

Today, I want to speak about my Part III in my Mindfulness & Motorcycling journey. Returning to riding after a month off was a bit overwhelming. I didn’t help my anxiety by deciding that my first ride back on my Moto Morini with fresh new tires would be 40 mile around work commute ride. Yet, I am happy I did it because I learned something new about myself as a motorcyclist. I learned, that I need to focus more on what is happening in front of me, and pay less attention to what my inner dialogue. In other words, “don’t be a head case while riding your motorcycle Rolf!” Discovering this I thought a great addition to my riding experience would be to listen to music while riding. I listen to music all the time. It helps me focus, relax, and brings me joy. So why not add this ingredient to my rides on my Moto Morini. On a cool late March Saturday morning, I popped in my AirPods and hit the road. This was transformational.

For safety, I kept the volume low, just above the sound of my engine. My playlist for my first ride with music was the SiriusXM channel “Chill Instrumentals”. A perfect blend of downtown temp beats with no vocals. Just listening to the slow uplifting beat and knifing my way around James Island and Folly Beach. Within a few minutes I was completely dialed in with my machine and my surroundings. A few brief seconds of brain talk was immediately canceled by Chill’s music vibes. I refocused my attention to the road and ended up riding for 2 hours. Granted traffic was light but it was a wonderful test. Allowing music to drive me forward, allowed me to reach a clarity during my ride that I attribute to Mindfulness & Motorcycling….with music.

Since my first ride with music, I have completed a wonderful work commute listening to music as I make my way to North Charleston from James Island and back home. Again, music played an important part in my mental state throughout my ride. Relaxing me, focusing me, and above all creating a peaceful motorcycling experience. Something I have been searching for.

Rolf