Buell St

Finding Your Own Heaven

Growing up, I was around motorcycles from the earliest age. Getting bit by that two-wheel bug has been one of the best things to happen to me. Whether it was hanging out in my grandfather's shop while he worked on his Norton Commando or going for rides with my father on his 750 Yamaha, I was hooked and wanted to be on or around them as much as possible.

As life often does, our trajectory and paths tend to change as we meander around and find ourselves. My journey in life pulled me away from motorcycles as I pursued music and other passions for a few years, but when I came back, I was all in. Getting my first bike, an '06 Honda Shadow VLX was a big deal to me. A lifelong dream was finally happening and that freedom on two wheels I had always dreamt of became a reality. It didn't matter if it was that bike or any of the ones that followed. My connection to the world had changed, but more importantly, the connection to my family of riders was solidified.

This past week I lost my Uncle Kevin who was an avid rider and motorsport enthusiast. Growing up he always had dirt and road bikes, and I remember spending time with my cousin at his place riding minibikes and go-karts while my uncle watched on or worked in his shop. Going to my Aunt & Uncle's house was always fun because they had all the coolest toys, but more importantly, they treated me with the utmost respect and like an adult even when I was a punk kid.

When Kevin bought his Buell XB9S new in 2003, I don't think anyone knew how much he'd fall in love with it. You see at that time, the legend of the Buell motorcycle brand was still growing. For all he knew this would be just another bike that he liked and kept for a few years before moving on to the next one. That was not the case, the bike stayed with him for 19 years before eventually selling it to his nephew that had been asking for it for many years. It wasn't until the first time I rode it that I knew why he loved and cherished it so much. For me, it was the uniqueness of the machine that drew me in and the raw power which plasters the largest smile possible on my face that keeps me coming back for more. 

Although I have four bikes in my garage, the Buell means something else to me and cannot be replaced. To me, this bike is a legacy, it's a connection not only to my uncle but my grandfather and in some ways my father. All of us love to ride, and it makes up a portion of who we were, who we are, and who we'll be. I will forever remember our rides together, I'll always think of our conversations, and your smile will live rent-free in my memories. 

Kevin, wherever your soul ends up on the other side, I know you will forever be on Buell St. Say hi to Grandpa for me and I can't wait to ride with you again one day.