Started on a small cycle at age 14 and quickly grew to love the freedom and oncoming air. Obvious risk was outweighed by the rush. Eventually had some very fast bikes then and pushed them hard. Simple solo enjoyment.
Later, when married and my wife told me "we are going to have a baby", immediately sold my bike (48 Indian Chief with all of the trimmings) and did not own one again until the girls were grown and on their own. Started again - same great feeling, and better knew how to maintain one and ride more sensibly.
Last big ride was in 2014 - three former students from the late 60s invited me to join in a week-long ride through the entire SW. Flew to LV to meet them, rented a nice one, and away we went. Total blast of enjoyment.
Other factors intervened - no riding since that. Still would if things were just right, and may. The world looks very different from a bike.
