A few years ago I participated in a walk to raise funds for cancer research. Like just about everyone I know, I have friends and relatives in Cody, Wyoming and elsewhere who have battled this disease, and many have benefited from the medical advances made possible by well-known organizations who sponsor and run these events.
I was surprised to find that keeping the route safe for us walkers for three days was a local motorcycle club. We could spot these men and women immediately as they arrived with pink decorations and teddy bears adorning their bikes. I thanked as many of them as possible, and I still see many around town.
But having friends who ride bikes is not new. You see, as an old movie buff I have always had a soft spot in my heart for motorcycles.
I was a rebellious 15-year-old when I saw The Wild One and learned some valuable life lessons. When Marlon Brando emerged from the fog I immediately started talking about how cool it would be to have a bike like his. I don’t know if I really wanted one or if I was just trying to give my mother a hard time.
It certainly worked. My parents had been reluctant to allow me to start driving when I turned 16 because they somehow had this strange idea that I wasn’t mature enough. The possibility, however, that I would secretly get a bike made them reconsider.
Naturally, I wanted an answer right then and was probably somewhat of a nag. I told my grandmother what was happening, and she suggested I tone down my attitude, which I did.
Shortly thereafter my folks signed for my license and even split the cost of a used pickup with me.
The Buffalo Bill Scenic Byway leads to Yellowstone’s east gate, just one hour from Cody.
We certainly see plenty of bikers around here. Every summer, hundreds of them ride through Yellowstone Country on their way to and from South Dakota for the Sturgis Rally in early August. From late July until about the second week of August there is always an uptick in the numbers.
While it would certainly be quicker for this group to stick to the interstates, the roads around here are too nice and the scenery is just too spectacular. The Buffalo Bill Scenic Byway through the Wapiti Valley is pretty flat, but the road surface is smooth with plenty of curves to keep things interesting.
Riders who want hills, curves and vistas that stretch forever tend to take the Chief Joseph Scenic Byway and the Beartooth Highway. Many will come out of the park through the east gate, stop in town for lunch or spend the night and then head northeast where they will pick up Interstate 90 or take the back roads all of the way to the Black Hills.
The Chief Joseph Scenic Byway connects with the Beartooth All American Road, making a full day of spectacular riding.
My friend Claudia likes to get away with her husband on Sunday afternoons for a ride. I think they know every little café, hamburger stand and shade tree within 200 miles of Cody. Like those riders who look for the slower but better route, they understand that sometimes it’s the journey that is more important than the destination.
I hope you agree.
Until next week, I am lovin’ life – and getting my motor running – in Cody, Wyo.