Right after my motorcycle crash and finding out how long it would take to recover from my rib fractures, I promised the spouse that I would wait eight weeks before riding my Harley again.

After seven weeks, though, the spouse agreed that…

…I had recovered adequately. I am grateful for his help during my recovery. I am about 97% there. I still feel the ribs from time to time, but not that much now and what I feel is not painful.

Considering that my plans for next week include more business travel, and that I wanted to get my Harley to the shop for an evaluation of how it fared from the crash and any potential hidden damage, I made an appointment for the Harley’s service and evaluation to drop it off at the shop yesterday.

The damage that I can see is mostly cosmetic, but I am not a mechanic so I wanted a professional evaluation.

I contacted several friends to ask if they could escort me when I rode the Harley to the shop — but they were all busy. My spouse thanked me for trying to find someone to ride escort, and since I couldn’t find anyone available, he agreed to drive his own car and follow me for my comfort and peace-of-mind in case something happened.

Nothing did. I got there fine.

And even though it was 90F (32C) at 0930, I pulled on my tan breeches, tall Chippewa “hi-shine” boots, and my Rev’IT ballistic nylon jacket for this ride. I also put on my full-face helmet because my replacement helmet has not yet been delivered. I rode fully geared and actually was quite comfortable.

I shook my head, though, at all the bikers, including many Harley riders, who were wearing shorts, sneakers, and t-shirts. I never want them to learn the lesson that I did, but if they spill, their injuries could be permanently devastating.

Anyway, I made it safely. The bike is now in the shop for its service and inspection. The shop will keep it for the week while I am on travel.

I drove the spouse and myself back home in his car. Considering that my spouse has not been driving in years due to the effects of his long-term illness, this was huge for him as well.

Today I got back up on my iron horse, and the spouse drove the furthest he has driven in more than four years. Win-win!Life is short: and it’s always better when your spouse has your back and you are getting back on the road.