Gary had to go to Phoenix to work last week and I decided after finding a cheap fare,to join in for part of the week. We rented bikes and got together with Renee (Backmarker) and friends for a day of riding. GREAT IDEA!

We gathered early at AZride, a bike rental agency in Scottsdale, that had wonderful bikes for rent. They also set up ride tours for visitors and provided maps and whatever one may need for a moto-trip around the Southwest. We only had a day to do this so Renee and Bruce plotted out a nice ride around the area covering about 250+ miles.

The morning began with a chilly start and a brutal taste of reality for moi. I had rented a Weestrom for Gary and R1200RT for me. Upon pickup and after being bombarded with horror stories of renters that didn’t even make it out of the AZRide parking lot without dropping the RT, I was scared “sh**less”. I know I am NOT supposed to listen to the horror stories but afterwards I wanted no part of the RT. I couldn’t even bring myself to ride it out of the parking lot. I know the two owners were inside taking bets on how long it would take me to either leave on the bike or return it for another model. Gary, a picture of patience that day, asked me if I would feel better riding the weestrom. I honestly didn’t know that I even wanted to ride. GRRR….what a way to begin a day.

We ultimately switched bikes and within a few minutes on the road I was just fine (just as Gary predicted)…I enjoyed the heck out of the weestom!! Nice riding machine, quick and responsive as well! A bit tall, but not top heavy, weighing about 100lbs less than the full-dressed RT.

We had a marvelous time thanks to Renee, a great day had by all, even though it was a bit chilly, it was gloriously sunny and beautiful! Mental Note: next time bring the heated gear if before May!!

When do we go again????