What defines a biker?

This post was the winning entry in the contest 'What defines a biker?' and has been awarded a 'United Motorcyclists Jacket of India'.

Life isn’t all about seeing time pass away to realise the end and attain moksha. It is indeed all about enjoying every moment and making every moment enjoyable. The joy being referred to here is attained by people in a multitude of ways. While some go along the path of spirituality, a few others transverse along the path that forbids it. People also search for joy in food, clothes, comfort and various other things. However, one needs to accept that the joy felt needs to be something that can be cherished later on in life and something that once can be proud of. And one such thing that satisfies these criteria is adventure on vehicles.
Moving images of your fall from the bicycle, the stunts you made on your bike and the decency and style with which you have got out of your car might be moving in front of your eyes. While the cycle is something meant for tiny tots, recollection of which does not bring any fear or excitement and the car is something thought to be meant only for business men; the bike is the perfect match for a life filled with thrill, adventure and excitement. But what exactly defines a biker? Courage, speed, control… or something else?

Courage

On a windy day wrapped in an overcoat that seemed to be reluctant to stay on the body, Ramesh set out on his bike for a thrilling ride. Riding at speeds that crossed the limits that were displayed on the signboards, Ramesh though that he was much ahead of the world racing into the future. On his way, along the side of the road, little children were walking by foot to reach their school on time. But time seemed to be in race with the children’s determination not to be marked altering. Helplessly, they waved their hands but the least response did they receive. Speed was essential for the children but it was in the possession of Ramesh who did not have the heart to use it for someone in need. Did speed define the biker?

Speed

Moving ahead, the speedometer reading was raised even further. The air in view seemed to be pushed forward with tremendous force and the space behind felt like vacuum. The blowing wind seemed to hurl itself at the naked eyes of Ramesh and in the process, an old man crossing the road was hit. The brakes were applied all of a sudden and the bike stopped with a jerk. The old man was covered in blood. He was still in his senses and could have been saved but Ramesh ignored him fearing being arrested for his avoidable mistake. He did have the courage to raise speed above acceptable levels but not the courage to help someone who was a victim of his courage! Did courage define the biker?

Control

With the passage of time, the guilt in him started rising. His mental stability stated moving out of his control. He feared worse things taking place. For a quick relief, he thought of those stunts over which he had perfection, thanks to the control he has possessed over his bike. The bike went round and round in circles, moved on a single wheel and managed to stay upright even with no aid from the hands of the biker. But alas… he lost control and was seriously injured. His head was bleeding. He was almost becoming unconscious. He saw two school children though his half open eyes who bothered not about him for they might get late for their tuition classes. Another biker rode past him but he did not have the courage to help him. Ramesh did have control over his bike to a certain extent but not the control over his mental stability that could have averted the disaster. Did control define the biker?

The question remains answered…. What exactly defines a biker?

This post has been for Castrol Power 1 Blogging Contest. Have a look at Castrol Biking here. If you have liked this entry, do vote for it here.