Astrid: Why do you prefer motorcycles over cars for your trips?

Christine: I think that the experience is just so much greater when traveling on motorcycles. You see more of what is around you, and you really do meet more local people. I have also found that motorcycle vacations are just good for my soul, somehow. You get the opportunity to be alone in your head, think about things, and experience beauty in a whole different way.

Astrid: What countries have you driven through on your motorcycle?

Christine: Spain, Portugal, Italy, France, Austria, Switzerland, Germany, Lichtenstein, Canada, England, Scotland, the Isle of Man, and a great deal of the United States. On my wish list: Ireland, Vietnam, Morocco

On the agenda for next year: Sardinia and Corsica, and back to Tuscany, Italy.

Astrid: What are your concerns about safety on the road based on your personal experiences?

Christine: I am always concerned by other riders who forgo helmets and protective clothing. They place everyone at risk. I also hate to watch motorcyclists do “wheelies,” and other stupid tricks.

Personally, I watch out for the vehicles around me. I never assume that they see me. I make sure that they see me.

Astrid: Are you involved in any charity events?

Christine: Not on a regular basis, I’m sorry to say. I have participated in a few rallies for charitable causes, but not enough.

Astrid: Do you ride your motorcycle every day, or do you have a car for trips to work and shopping?

Christine: We do have one 4-wheeled vehicle, which we share. Between the two of us, we have 4 motorcycles. We work together, so we drive the car to work, and shopping, and save the motorcycles for the fun stuff.

Astrid: Are there any concerns for women traveling alone on a motorcycle?

Christine: I am not afraid of traveling alone, but I would not recommend it for a beginner. You need to know how to pick up your motorcycle, and you need to have identification and a cell phone with you, if alone.

Astrid: How do you meet other riders?

Christine: That just seems to happen. If on a trip, at gas stations we meet other motorcyclists. Conversations just seem to happen. They will want to know where you’ve been, where you’re going.