Thanks for all the feedback, thoughts and well wishes guys. I know it will be a while before I can really ride again anyway so I have plenty of time to think. Still in a lot of pain as to be expected and walking is far from what it used to be and certainly not graceful. Riding is a tough decision for me for many reasons. 1. I have been riding since I was 8 years old and never planned on quitting. 2. Its been a family tradition and history; my grandfather was first to race a Honda in the US, all my uncles raced and we have had multiple family motorcycle businesses over the years, so its in my blood. 3. Accidents happen to everyone and if it were horse riding the saying is to get back on the horse. 4. I feel defeated, ashamed and foolish, and I don't want to go out like that. 5. Building bikes has been a passion for about 7 years now and I would find it hard to continue that passion and not enjoy the fruits of my labor. 6. I love everything about riding - it makes me feel some how special, or a cut above the rest.
Now I also know all the reasons I should quit. 1. I love my kids and family and they need me. 2. This pain and healing really, really sucks. 3. I am sure I will find other things that make me as happy and proud as building and riding bikes. 4. I can close this chapter of my life under the old virtue of its better to burnout than fade away. Or go out with a bang so to say. 5. I have a new chance at life and I should not f**k around with it, as I may not get another.
So here is my plan so far. I am focusing on healing and getting back to "normal life", then I will rebuild the bike. When that that is done I will decide on maybe one last ride (in full gear of course) before parting ways with it all for good. Just so I can say I got back on the horse and have some closure. Then sell everything and take up a car project that I can share with my kids so I can keep turning wrenches and enjoy my work.
My feelings on the bikes will never change, bikes don't crash, riders do. And they are still on the top of my cool list.
Like learning to walk again, its nothing but time and baby steps and this too will pass.
I am still going to put together the DTT book, so keep those pics and descriptions coming guys, it will be the only edition I will be doing so its now or never. I'll keep you all posted on the progress and I thank you all for the being the good group you are and sharing your support, that is why I joined DTT, its a real brotherhood. -MBS