This past Sunday there was a Suicide Prevention Benefit ride in LaGrange and I had to decide which of my steeds was going to carry me. After much consideration I used the Honda Nighthawk 250. I haven't had the big Kawasaki out yet this year and I wanted something manageable in case the crowd threw me a curve. 
After filling up the Honda's tank I rode over to PC's Paddock where the event was beginning. Despite its diminutive engine the Honda was running quite well. On the way over I caught up with a group heading to the same place and the Honda kept pace with the much larger motorcycles. I felt pretty good about the day to come.
The crowd there was quite diverse, for a change, with motorcycles of many categories and brands in the mix. Usually the field is made up of large American V-Twins. The sound of different sized engines was truly impressive as the people moved out on the road. I moved in near the end of the parade as usually the riders back there are less than inclined to go fast. Moving out of Poughkeepsie the group was all over the available three lanes which had people passing and being passed as the group was in flux. I had to watch all around me as I was passed and passing other motorcycles. Despite my previous apprehension the Honda did quite well on the road.
Once we reached Rhineback the road became more rural and the group settled down. Riding through scenic countryside was quite invigorating and the bike and I became one as we rolled through the curving byway as it twisted, rose and fell in concert with the terrain. The group finally reached Pine Plains and a rest stop that had everyone smiling.
I had other obligations and left the ride to return home on some of the nicer routes in the area. The Honda was solid and steady on the curves and I had to smile as I rode home. Once in the garage I patted the gas tank and thanked the bike for its efforts. It did an exceptional job.
The next ride is three weeks away and the Kawasaki is slated to do it. It should be much fun.