Category: Motorcycling

Dream Bike

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Photo info: FUJIFILM X-E4, 27mm, f/2.8, 1/15 sec, ISO1600
 “Dream Bike” Austin, 2025

This evening, my friend and I attended the Triumph Icon event here in Austin, where Triumph Motorcycles unveiled several special edition models. But the highlight for me was finally seeing the new 2025 Speed Twin 900 in person. I’ve watched countless videos about this stunning bike, but it hasn’t shown up in showrooms yet, so I was beyond excited to check it out. It felt just about perfect for me.

Finding a bike that fits me well is a challenge, and after being disappointed by how the Triumph Speed 400 felt, I was a little nervous that the Speed Twin 900 wouldn’t be a great fit either. Thankfully, that wasn’t the case at all. Surprisingly, I was almost able to flat-foot it with the stock seat, which I didn’t expect. The seat height is listed at 780 mm – exactly the same as Kiki, my 2007 BMW F650 GS – yet on Kiki, I can only tiptoe. I have no idea why there’s such a difference, but I’m not complaining! On top of that, the riding position is nice and neutral, which I really like.

It’s definitely at the top of my list for new bikes. Maybe one day, I’ll make it mine!

Photo info: Apple iPhone 15 Pro, 6.7649998656528mm, f/1.8, 1/40 sec, ISO1000
 “Future Bike” Austin, 2025

Freezing Tradition

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Photo info: Apple iPhone 15 Pro, 2.6900000572505mm, f/1.9, 1/270 sec, ISO25
 “Chilly Day” Cedar Park, 2025

I kept up my quirky tradition of riding my motorcycle when the temperature dips below freezing. It’s such a ridiculous thing to do, but still a lot of fun! Kiki’s heated handgrips seem like they’d be amazing, but they’re just okay. They keep your palms warm and toasty, but the rest of your body – and even the backs of your hands – stays frozen. 🥶

Photo info: Apple iPhone 15 Pro, 6.7649998656528mm, f/1.8, 1/1800 sec, ISO64
 “Kiki” Cedar Park, 2025

Charging Cable for Kiki

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Photo info: Apple iPhone 15 Pro, 6.7649998656528mm, f/1.8, 1/40 sec, ISO1000
 “Charging Port” Cedar Park, 2025

I can’t believe it took me 14 years (give or take) to finally buy the adapter that lets me charge Kiki’s battery through the little port on the side. The cable was only $12, and it’s a total game-changer! Before this, I had to unlock the tail trunk with the key, pull a lever to remove the seat, and then attach alligator clips to the battery terminal. This new setup saves so much hassle!