At the beginning of the COVID shutdown, nobody knew how long things would last. Events were being canceled, people were staying home, and I found myself wanting to ride more than ever.

Up until that point, most of my riding revolved around motorcycle events and group rides. This time, I wanted to go somewhere simply because I could.

I didn’t have a specific destination in mind. I just knew I wanted to ride to South Carolina.

Looking back, I laugh at how little I knew compared to what I know now. I didn’t have years of touring experience like I do now.  I didn’t have a detailed route planned out. I was still figuring things out as I went.

Crossing that state line felt exciting. It was the first time I had taken my motorcycle somewhere overnight by myself with no event waiting on the other end.

That trip gave me a glimpse of what motorcycle travel could be. A simple ride to South Carolina eventually turned into a passion for exploring new places, riding longer distances, and seeing parts of the country I had never experienced before.