PHOTO GALLERY: Motorcycling Across the West

My agenda was simple: Pack light, make few plans and let the map be my inspiration. My only real obligation was to shoot our Project 156 effort at the Pikes Peak Hill Climb in Colorado Springs. The workweek following the race was short because of the Fourth of July, so I saw it as a good opportunity for some throttle therapy. With race over and photos sent back to Cycle World, I grabbed my Butler Motorcycle map and allowed myself to wander as I headed back to California.

Many times, I found myself not exactly lost but not quite sure where I was, or headed. The endless Western skies and my complete lack of a schedule encouraged exploration. Back roads, lost highways, Indian reservations, dirt roads: I hit them all. Spent some time camping, too, falling asleep to the tranquil sounds of a swift river. But I can skip a shower for just so many days. Then it was time to drift into a funky little mining town, check in to a funky little motel, and saunter over to a funky little saloon. After a few days in the saddle, a couple pints of local brew and a wood-fired pizza is pure heaven.

Traveling on two wheels is true freedom. Enjoy the photos.