[LWJ]

I seem to be late to a remarkable hobby that more than a few of you partake.

Dirtbiking.

Prior to 2021, I had zero motorcycle experience but have been a lifelong skier and mountain biked since forever. This year I have purchased three dirtbikes (sold two) ridden most weekends and had simply a fantastic time ripping up the single track.

It has been the perfect release for my COVID duldrums / stress / and general blah outlook on the world.

Being scared spitless has a lot going for it.

Also, being a gear head, I greatly enjoyed tinkering with the bikes. They are so simple, and respond wonderfully to a little attention. That has been gratifying as well.

NOTE: I did buy a nice helmet, knee pads, chest protector, and boots. All crashes so far have been low speed and I have zero injuries. I suspect that will change as the miles add up.

First bike was a clapped out TTR225 - the only thing I could find with electric start in the depths of COVID. Had a goofy chinese carb. Didn't really run. Got it to rip and then learned it was way too small for my 6' self. Sold it.

Bought a TTR250. Really liked it. All 270 pounds. Yikes what a PIG. I did like it though. Put some great tires and stuff on it. Learned to ride a little more. Sold it.

Decided I needed to go on a diet. Bought a 200 EXC 2 stroke. Supposed to be about 214# dry. After fixing a chipped reed valve and goofing with the jetting that thing is something else!

Going for a ride Saturday. Hopefully the mud is controllable. I really don't need any fractures right now.


Best story yet. My buddy and his daughter rode with my last week at a place called Jones Creek in the Yacolt National Forest. The daughter needed help and my buddy rode her bike up the trail at a somewhat challenging spot. Buddy managed to launch the bike off the trail and down a cliff about 12 feet vertical. Took us an hour to drag it back up the hill.

Sidenote: Sold first bike for $700 more than I paid and second for $900 more. I like this hobby!