Twisted Road member Eric W. is an adventurer who loves to ride a variety of motorcycles and other wheeled modes of transport—as well as jump out of planes. Read about his favorite Hawaii and Florida rides and start planning your next trip.
How long have you been riding, which bikes have you owned, and how did you become interested in riding?
In 1986 I was in high school and saved up to purchase a 1979 Honda 650CB; I loved the bike. I grew up just outside of Boston and drove it to college in NY and kept the bike until I graduated. I took many long trips on the bike and it served me well.
As most of us know, life gets in the way and owning a motorcycle was not in the cards. I would frequently rent motorcycles while on vacation or business trips but ownership was not happening. My interest in motorcycles started with my dad who owned a motorcycle for a brief time. Additionally, I liked the freedom of the ride and I always wanted to be different. Most kids have cars—I wanted to stand out from the crowd by owning a motorcycle.
What moto trips have you taken (long or short)? Where did you go, stay and explore? Tell us some highlights.
Most of my early riding was in Boston then Manhattan and Long Island, NY. As I got older, I would rent. I have been on many trips but probably my favorite was riding around Hawaii. I actually did this twice, one time in Honolulu and the other on the Big Island of Hawaii. On the Big Island, my wife jumped on the back of a Heritage Softail and off we went. It was really cool to see how the landscape evolved as we changed elevation. We started out in the Kukio area which is on the West side on the island, just North of Kona Airport. The landscape was full of maroon volcanic rock and we felt like we were on another planet—especially when you compare it to Manhattan.
As we made our way to the North side of the island, everything became lush and the road was flanked with trees & greenery. We also saw areas with big open fields and volcanos on the horizon. The road had tons of curves and slopes. Some of the ride was near the ocean and a good portion was inland…fun stuff! We hit the road at sunrise and finished quite late when it was dark out. About 2/3 of the way, we hit a brief but intense spot of rain but this did not deter us. Actually we had no choice, we were committed to the ride and turning around at that point was not an option. Other than my wife complaining that her butt hurt, it was a great time!
What hobbies do you enjoy when you're not riding?
For many years I have been consumed with work. I spend way too much time at the office. Although I am in my 50's I still ride a skateboard. Actually a longboard. I do it to get a little exercise and clear my head. I recently learned how to ride a Ripstik. Motorcycles and skateboards are very similar—super fun unless you wipe out!
I also like classic cars. I am tying to do more stuff. I frequently travel for business. Years ago, I used to rent a bike while I was on the road but I stopped doing it for a while. Now I want to rent as often as possible and package the trip with Skydiving. That's how I roll. My last trip was in Chicago—I rode & jumped.
Next trip is San Diego—I plan to ride & jump. I also have a trip to Vegas in November—I plan to ride & jump.
What do you enjoy about being part of the Twisted Road community?
I like the selection of motorcycles and meeting the owners. It's more personal than renting from a dealer. Twisted Road gives you access to bikes in areas where a motorcycle dealer is not convenient. You also have a wider variety of motorcycles to select from. I love sport bikes and this gives me the opportunity to ride a variety of them.
What are your favorite biker friendly places around your hometown?
I live in South Florida. Between tourists, old people, and aggressive drivers, you really need to be careful. A great place to check out is Delray Beach. There is an awesome strip of stores, restaurants, and night life. It is located on Atlantic Avenue, East of I-95 towards the beach. Also, a drive up and down A1A along the ocean is a great ride.
What are your favorite rides near your hometown?
I have driven to Key West several times. Beautiful cruise. The ride over the Seven Mile Bridge is something you need to check out!
What location is on your moto trip bucket list?
Since I was young, I wanted to drive cross country on a motorcycle. I would take my time and check out the sights. My wife has made it clear that this will be a solo mission…her tush can't take it! :)
