For over two decades, motorcycles had taken a backseat in my life due to a lingering back injury. Once a passionate rider, I had to bid farewell to the thrill of the open road. However, life has a way of surprising us, and little did I know that a revival of my motorcycling passion was on the horizon, thanks to the remarkable BMW R9T.
The Road to Recovery
My journey back to motorcycles began with a commitment to healing my back. Years of discomfort and pain had kept me away from the joy of riding, but I was determined to change that. Yoga became my ally, improving my flexibility and mobility, gradually restoring my physical strength.
The BMW R9T: A Perfect Catalyst
In 2020, the BMW R9T came into my life, igniting a spark that had long been dormant. It was more than just a motorcycle; it was a ticket back to a world I had missed dearly. The R9T offered a comfortable riding position, stunning aesthetics, and an abundance of power – a perfect package for someone like me, returning to motorcycling after a hiatus.
What set the R9T apart was its customisability. It allowed me to put my personal touch on the bike, making it a reflection of my own style and preferences. This element of personalisation was a big draw, as I sought to make my return to riding truly unique.
The Cafe Racer Renaissance
Amidst my rediscovery of motorcycling, I found myself drawn to the surge in cafe racer motorcycles and culture. The sleek, retro-inspired designs and the spirit of customisation deeply appealed to me. I delved into this subculture, learning about its rich history and the passionate community it had fostered.
Trips to iconic motorcycle events like “The Bike Shed Show” and their venue in London further cemented my love for the R9T and the cafe racer culture. The camaraderie among fellow riders and the sheer artistry displayed in custom bikes left an indelible mark on my journey back into motorcycling.
A New Direction
However, life is about evolution, and sometimes, our passions take unexpected turns. Recently, I made the bittersweet decision to part ways with my beloved R9T. My riding had evolved, embracing the adventure and dual-sport scene with a Tiger 900 Rally Pro and a CRF300L.
The R9T, while a magnificent machine, found itself collecting dust as my focus shifted. The absence of a local BMW dealership added to the challenge, making servicing an inconvenience. Letting go of the R9T was a difficult choice, but it allowed me to explore new horizons in motorcycling.
A Debt of Gratitude
As I reflect on my journey, I owe a tremendous debt of gratitude to the BMW R9T. In 2020, it was the catalyst that brought me back to the world of motorcycles. Three years later, my life is now permeated with motorcycle-related activities, from off-road adventures to restoring a classic CB750K cafe racer.
The R9T served as a bridge between my past and present, rekindling the passion that had been dormant for so long. While it may no longer be in my garage, its legacy lives on in the enduring love I have for motorcycling and the rich experiences it continues to bring to my life.
KILN MOTO 
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