motorcycles: perfect for someone on the spectrum

[aspietalk]

i'm picking up my new motorcycle tomorrow, after not riding in a year, and have been spending a lot of time in one of my local rider forums. the motorcycle riding community can be a great place for someone with autism/asperger's, in some way. almost all of the conversation is very topic-based, talking about gear displacement ratios, powerbands, leather vs textile, etc. people into motorcycles can get incredibly geeky and obsessed about the topic, and it's great to just lose yourself in. it aint about being super social, it's more about your competence as a rider, that you know what you're doing. i'm really bad at small talk, and don't connect with people well, am usually by myself at any social setting, but you walk into a bar or cafe with your helmet and gear, you see another rider, and there's instant camraderie, you're part of a community, just by what you DO, rather than silly smiling vapid skills. it's pretty cool.

[Star]

As I have lived in Amsterdam for the last 20 years I have used my bicycle to go everywhere I need. I know its not a motorbike but the sensation is the same. The turning wheel in front of me 'eating' up the road ahead, the wind on my face and hair, the feeling of freedom it is all there. I think riding a motorbike is also comparable with riding a horse, besides riding a bicycle. The connection between the motorbike, the bicycle, the horse and the rider. It is indeed very 'autistic' as it turns inward and becomes a pleasure stimulus... This is my opinion anyway...

Star

[John]

Yeah,motorcycling is something Aspies may find to their liking.I enjoy the solitude and freedom.The camaraderie is great too.Its a good way of getting to meet others when you can`t do small talk.I think Aspies make better riders as we focus 100% on the task in hand.

[Angela]

I like the idea of at least getting a scooter, but not being able to block out the noise around me is a scary thought (I wear headphones 90% of the time to do this, and that's not safe or legal while motorcycling).

Still, seems cool. A lot of the most interesting people I've known have been into the hobby.

[Chris mcmorris]

ill fix one but not ride