Motorcycling is for the young at heart as well as the young.

For many, riding a motorcycle is an activity associated with the recklessness and unfettered joy of youth. But for others, motorcycling is an expression of freedom and pleasure that has nothing to do with age, and they plan to keep riding as long as there are roads to travel. If you enjoyed motorcycling in years gone by, there's no reason you can't strap on a helmet and get back into all over again.

Bill Buchannan is a motorcycle enthusiast from Coppell, Texas. Here he gives tips for those looking to climb on a motorcycle and ride the highways like they used to do:

• Used bike. If it's been a long time since you rode a motorcycle, you probably shouldn't drop a fortune on a brand new machine. A better idea, Buchannan feels, is to buy a basic used bike so that you won't be causing damage to an expensive vehicle as you learn the ropes again.

• Lessons. Even if you were once an accomplished rider, it's a good idea to take a refresher course. Buchannan sees it as an excellent way to transition back into riding, and it might just lower your insurance payments.

• Protection. Protective clothing, including an approved helmet, leather gloves and a tough leather jacket, are an absolute necessity. Almost every state in the union has some kind of helmet law, and the penalties for non-compliance can be stiff. And remember—these items are about looking good as well as staying safe. After all, the leather motorcycle jacket has been an icon of cool for half a century, and it definitely looks good when you're zooming down the highway.

Motorcycle Safety Foundation
www.msf-usa.org

National Association of State Motorcycle Safety Administrators (SMSA)
www.smsa.org

The American Motorcyclist Association
www.ama-cycle.org/index.asp