Zain Abiddin

“On a cycle the frame is gone. You’re completely in contact with it all. You’re in the scene, not just watching it anymore, and the sense of presence is overwhelming. That concrete whizzing by five inches below your foot is the real thing, the same stuff you walk on, it’s right there, so blurred you can’t focus on it, yet you can put your foot down and touch it anytime, and the whole thing, the whole experience is never removed from immediate consciousness.” — Robert M. Pirsig, Zen and the Art of Motorcycle Maintenance

So, there I was, sitting in my doctor’s office, expecting the usual “eat more greens” lecture. Instead, my doctor hits me with, “Your testosterone levels are up.” I blink. Say what now? He continues, “It seems riding your motorcycle has something to do with it.” Apparently, motorcycles are excitement machines on wheels, and excitement levels can crank up that testosterone. Who knew?

You see, motorcycles aren’t just vehicles; they’re therapy on two wheels. They’re the secret sauce to enhanced situational awareness, a boost in testosterone (whoa!), and a whole lot of joy. Plus, it’s a well-known fact: you never see a motorcycle parked outside a therapist’s office. Why? Because the bike is the therapy!

A Roaring Start

My love affair with motorcycles began early. My dad used to drop me off at school on his Honda CB750, with its baby blue tank gleaming in the sunlight. The sound of his motorcycle coming home from work was my favorite melody, signaling his return. He kept that bike in “tip-top shape”, and it was like the modern-day version of a knight’s steed. And then there was my cousin Ali. Ali had a love for motorcycles, and his legacy rides on in every twist of my throttle.

The Unexpected Bond

Riding hasn’t just been a solo therapy session; it’s also brought me closer to my brother-in-law, Cameron. He’s always been a motorcycle enthusiast – I remember when he was dating my sister, he’d show up on this bright orange ZX 6r Kawasaki Ninja. Now, I’m looking forward to hitting the open road together – it’s better than any family bonding activity. It’s like we found our own secret handshake, but louder and faster. Ironically, before I was even into motorcycles, I gave Cameron the book Zen and the Art of Motorcycle Maintenance by Robert M. Pirsig. Motorcyle’s is our favorite topic of conversation as we meet in family gatherings.

Unlocking Sydney’s Secrets

Motorcycles have this magical ability to make you explore. Living in Surry Hills, I thought I had Sydney all figured out. Then I got my bike. Suddenly, the city unfolded like a treasure map. Quaint little neighborhoods, hidden cafes, and breathtaking coastal roads that I never would have discovered otherwise. It’s like the world expands exponentially when you’re on two wheels.

Situational Awareness: The Superpower

Riding a motorcycle isn’t just about the thrill; it’s a masterclass in situational awareness. When you’re on a bike, you need to notice every pothole, every car behind you, beside you, and predict every potential hazard. It’s a constant, high-stakes game of chess with the road.

But how does this skill translate to life and work? Simple.

Attention to Detail: On a motorcycle, you learn to pay attention to the smallest details. This can help you in your professional life by making you more meticulous and detail-oriented. Whether it’s catching an error in a report or noticing a small but crucial detail in a project, this heightened sense of awareness can be invaluable.

Anticipation: Motorcycling teaches you to anticipate the actions of others. You become adept at predicting when a car might change lanes without signaling or when a pedestrian might step into the street. In the workplace, this ability can translate to foreseeing potential issues before they arise, allowing you to mitigate risks and avoid problems.

Quick Decision-Making: The road requires you to make split-second decisions. This ability to think on your feet and make rapid, informed choices is equally valuable in a professional setting, where swift and decisive action can be the difference between success and failure.

Focus and Presence: On a motorcycle, you must be entirely present. There’s no room for daydreaming or distractions. This focus can enhance your productivity and efficiency at work. Being fully present means you’re more engaged and can handle tasks with greater accuracy and speed.

Stress Management: The constant vigilance required on a motorcycle helps you develop a higher tolerance for stress. This can be a huge asset in high-pressure work environments, allowing you to stay calm and composed when things get hectic.

Whenever I’m feeling stressed, I just jump on my motorcycle and hit the road. One of my favorite rides was a trip to the Pacific Highway with a work colleague. We ended up at the Pie in the Sky cafe for some delicious pies on a Sunday. The ride, the scenery, the pies – it was pure bliss.

The Camaraderie

If you’re looking for therapy, camaraderie, and friends, look no further than a motorcycle license. The motorcycle community is a tight-knit group of like-minded adventurers. It’s like joining a club where everyone understands the thrill of the ride. Plus, who doesn’t want a squad to roll up with?

Motorcycle vs. Supercar

Motorcycles can school supercars any day of the week. And they do it with a price tag that won’t make your wallet cry. The thrill, the speed, the agility – all wrapped up in a sleek, affordable package. You get all the exhilaration without needing to sell a kidney.

The Therapeutic Roar

There’s something inherently therapeutic about riding a motorcycle. The roar of the engine, the wind in your face, the focus required – it’s meditation in motion. When life gets overwhelming, a ride can clear your mind better than any therapist’s couch. And unlike traditional therapy, it comes with the added bonus of adrenaline and adventure.

So, the next time someone tells you to see a therapist, just nod and smile, knowing you’ve got your own form of therapy waiting in the garage. Because nothing says “mental health boost” like a well-timed rev of the engine. And who knows, it might even bump up your testosterone levels too!