[Doug Axelrod]

Moved the snowblower out of the way (literally), fired up the Beast, and off we went into the abnormally warm 58 degree Cincinnati rural roads. Perfect weather, blasting around the back roads and toodling around the small towns hereabouts. No wheel to wheel combat, just an occasional thumbs up from similarly middle-aged Harley riders. No donuts in the parking lot, just an occasional chirp from the tires saying "hey, man, the road's cold."

This will be one of the last rides before the new heads go on (you listening, Eric?) and I was pretty overwhelmed with gratitude for the experience this machine has afforded me, a much broader and more involving "hobby" than I expected. The forecast suggests maybe I can sneak another ride in, maybe not. That's the way of it up here.

To all my Cobra bretheren and sisteren, Happy Holidays and a fun-filled and safe New Year.