Why We Ride

Brad’s Perspective

I discovered my love for motorcycles early in life. I was about seven years old the first time I climbed on one, and it didn’t take long before I was hooked. Riding gave me something I hadn’t experienced before—freedom. As a young boy, it meant mobility, exploration, and independence. I could go places on my own, discover new things, and enjoy time by myself in a way nothing else allowed.

At the same time, my parents were introducing me to the world through long road trips across the United States, Canada, and Mexico. Those adventures planted in me a deep fondness for travel and discovery. As I grew older, it felt natural to combine those two passions—travel and motorcycles.

My first real taste of long-distance motorcycle touring came with a 6,000-mile ride around the United States alongside my best friend, Mark Ernst. That trip sealed the deal for me. I realized just how much I loved exploring the world from the saddle of a bike. Riding makes you deeply connected to your surroundings—the sights, the smells, even the temperature shifts. It’s immersive in a way that riding in a car never can be. You can’t zone out on a motorcycle; you have to be fully present, 100% focused on the ride. That constant state of awareness is part of what makes it so rewarding.

Later, when Susan and I came together, riding gained a whole new dimension. Suddenly I had someone to share these passions with—adventure travel, exploration, and the thrill of the ride itself. Reaching retirement age only added more freedom to the mix. It felt like a perfect trifecta: motorcycles, travel, and time to enjoy them together.

Susan’s Perspective

For me, travel has always been part of who I am. My mother was an avid traveler, and she passed that passion on to me. Growing up, we crisscrossed the United States on family trips, and by the time I graduated high school, I had already been to Europe twice. To say I had wanderlust would be an understatement.

That love of travel carried over into my career. I became a flight attendant, and over the course of 34 years with the airline, I had the incredible opportunity to see the world. New cities, new cultures, and new experiences became a constant in my life, and I thrived on the adventure.

Motorcycles, however, were a very different story. My father was a surgeon, and he had seen the consequences of motorcycle accidents firsthand. Because of that, I was strictly forbidden from riding one as a child. I carried a healthy respect—and, if I’m honest, a real fear—of motorcycles well into adulthood.

That changed in my 40s when I met Brad. He introduced me to motorcycles in a way that felt safe and inviting, and before long, I was hooked. The freedom of riding was unlike anything I had ever experienced. Traveling by motorcycle doesn’t just take you to a place—it immerses you in the journey. You feel the air, the sun, the changes in temperature; you smell the earth and the trees as you pass by. Even when we revisit places I’ve been before, seeing them from the back of the bike feels brand new.

Riding two-up with Brad also adds another layer to the experience. It requires me to put my complete trust in him, and that trust has strengthened our relationship. We share the journey in a way that’s deeply connected—not only to the places we visit, but also to each other. For me, motorcycling isn’t just about travel; it’s about partnership, adventure, and experiencing the world with fresh eyes every time we set out on the road.

FAQs About Motorcycle Travel with Buggy Teeth

• 1. Why do people travel the world on motorcycles?

  Motorcycling creates a unique sense of freedom and connection - you experience the road, the elements, and the scenery in a way no other form of travel allows.

• 2. Is motorcycle touring safe for couples?

  Yes, with proper gear, planning, and trust, couples can enjoy two-up touring safely while sharing unforgettable experiences together.

• 3. What’s the best motorcycle for long-distance travel?

  Adventure bikes like the BMW GS are among the most popular choices because of their comfort, durability, and versatility on different terrains.

• 4. How do you plan a motorcycle trip across countries?

  Successful trips require a mix of research, flexibility, and lightweight packing. We share our travel stories, gear tips, and road hacks on our YouTube channel.

• 5. Where can I follow your motorcycle adventures?

  You can ride along with us at BuggyTeeth.com and follow our journeys on YouTube, Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook.