“You brought extra protective gear, right?”

Yesterday I went dirt biking for the first time, and it was awesome. Except for the part where the engine died when I was at the top of this massive hill (this happened at least twice), and trying to make sure the bike didn’t sustain too much damage while also trying not to be crushed by it.

But the best part was probably when this 8-year-old dirt biker stopped, came up to me and asked, “Are you okay?”

It was a really sweet moment actually, but I don’t think I even answered him because a) clearly I was not okay, and b) there wasn’t anything he could do to help (other than to send for help, I guess). But it all worked out fine, and the fire department was only mildly annoyed that they were dispatched for a non-emergency.

Not only was it my first time dirt biking, it was also my first time riding a motorcycle (as a driver), and attempting to shift gears manually on anything other than a bicycle.

My friend Jon did a great job explaining the basics and had me do laps in the parking lot before taking me on the novice practice area with the massive hill (sorry, don’t have a picture of this). My other friend Arthur was also watching out for me whenever it looked like I was about to do something stupid (to be clear…when the engine died it was totally user error).

I’m still pretty unsure about switching gears and figuring out what to do with the clutch, but it was totally worth stepping outside my comfort zone and trying something really dangerous different. I would totally go again, but wish that I could do something to practice by myself before going the next time. Maybe learning how to drive stick shift might help, if somebody wants to show me how to do that next.

Loading up everything in the morning. I’ve known these guys for over 10 years now, and am super grateful for their friendship and willingness to show me the ropes.

Before the ride. One of these is not like the others….

My attempt at a “tough guy” dirt biker selfie, after the fact. Clearly I don’t have any sort of control over my facial muscles / expressions.