Bye Bye Blackbird
It’s the end of an era. My 1997 CBR1100XX Blackbird has moved on to its proud new owner in Michigan. We’ve had over 35,000 great miles together. From the very first day when I rode it home from Murfreesboro in a snow flurry. Then, two trips to the Rocky Mountains in New Mexico and Colorado. So many great rides through Deal’s Gap and the winding country roads of Tennessee, Alabama and Kentucky. Even a brief 45 seconds of worldwide fame when we were featured on the Discovery Channel’s “Extreme Machines” together.
I haven’t ridden her in a while though, and it was time to part ways. I’m glad she’s going to somebody who will give her the <censored>good spanking</censored> safe, conservative journey she deserves, but it was difficult to contain my emotions as she disappeared down the street.
I know I’m too nostalgic and sentimental for my own good. I can’t help it. I remind myself over and over again it’s just a machine. A collection of parts and mechanical systems. But all my self assurances have a hollow ring to them. When I remember that lovely induction roar and the way she leaps forward like a hungry lioness when I whack the throttle open, I know she is something more…
Dang, I’m going to miss her.
P.S. Fortunately for me, the other cute girl in the picture has decided to stay.
