Closer to the ground

It's a different kind of adventure. Motorcycling has it's limitations when you want to cart sensitive photographic equipment. Besides, if a four year old bitten by the bug wants to clamber on to the seat behind you, it becomes woefully inadequate.

That's not a deterrent for us when our trips are not too distant and reasonably accessible to civilisation. Skanda has got used to holding on to my shirt without getting distracted by everything flowing past his curious gaze. A motorcycle offers a wider spectrum and a closer view than that afforded by a car so if given the choice two wheels is picked over four, unhesitatingly.

As we clock more kilometers I realize that two wheels have some distinct advantages that compensate for the limitations. Off-roading isn't so difficult anymore and narrow unfamiliar roads aren't a nightmare. Motorcycles are forgiving even if you made it go off the asphalt for an U-turn. In any case if it got tricky you could simply get off and push it without much effort.

Suddenly nature seems more closer. I can park just about anywhere and for however long, without fear of becoming responsible for a traffic jam - parking is no issue now.

It means I can spend more time searching and enjoying what nature throws up. The birds seemed less apprehensive and more approachable. Maybe a car is more intimidating.