Whoa, this could be dangerous, but here I go again -
What I seem to read into the question is; Are you truly a motorcyclist or are you what has come to be referred as a 'poser'
As most replies seem to indicate, my opinion is; what's it matter?. And frankly, each time the question is posed, I find it a little less palatable. But as I think about it yet again, here's why it doesn't matter to me. Frist let me say that I find the term 'Biker' to be confusing, misleading, and often discriminating and derogatory. I prefer the terms motorcyclist or cyclist
If you need to ask - either of yourself or another- you probably aren't a biker in the truest sense
If the answer matters more than taking a ride or even changing your oil - you probably aren't a biker in the truest sense.
If you need to dress in a particular way just to take a ride merely to portray an image – you probably aren't a biker in the truest sense.
If you ride a motorcycle because you want to, regardless of what you can afford, what it looks like, or what your neighbor rides - You probably are.
If you look forward to riding as frequently as you possibly can – You probably are.
If, when riding, you feel a sense of freedom or release from other worldly business, and find a sense of intensity and increased awareness of yourself and surroundings - You probably are.
If, when doing something totally unrelated to cycling, and you hear the sound of a cycle approaching and you raise your head to see it with the enthusiasm of a 12 year old, regardless of the sound it makes - You probably are.
If you enjoy chatting with another 'biker', regardless of what they ride, or how old or shiny they or their bikes are - You probably are.
If you would willingly stop to help a stranded cyclist at any time or day or night - You probably are.
And these things are why I believe I am.
