Then Came Bronson

Of everything I have ever watched on television the short opening to Then Came Bronson has resonated with me since first seeing it in 1969. It reflects the riding mythology that lies within me and affects my ideas and choices as I ride today.

The interchange between Bronson and the tired commuter sets up freedom that riding can offer and it just grows from there. Despite the physical gap between the Sportster than Bronson rides and the Vespa GTS that moves me through the world the there is an undeniable parallel for me.

This replica of the Sportster used in the show appears on a Then Came Bronson fan site. Its worth a look.

I suspect the themes in Then Came Bronson are not universal in riding. I've spoken to enough owners of motorcycles now to know that riding is not always first on their agenda. The thought of riding along through a saltwater surf and sand would be a horror only a few steps away from the gates of hell for some and a pointless exercise for others interested in speed and cornering.

And I am not sure whether the idea of riding away from the burden of the mundane is uniquely an American story or not. I certainly see parallels with Hermann Hesse's Knulp though without the Harley.

I posted this because I can't get the image out of my head. I can still see myself on that Sportster. Even when riding my Vespa. Last night on my way to the grocery store I was thinking about it. The machine and the road stretching out in front of me.

I've posted before about this and the youTube videos go away fast. I can only suspect that someone owning the rights to the show are exerting some influence. Someone told me about a place I could purchase the series on DVD but they are no longer available. Someday I will be surprised though and see them available on Netflix.

Imaginary Rides

Walking through the fog on a mountain road this morning with my dog I realized my daydreaming was about riding and not wrenching on a scooter. I've been trying to convince myself that I'll find fun or satisfaction on the floor of the garage surrounded by Craftsman tools.

Whatever happens now lies ahead and around a bend. I don't know how I am going to get there or where it takes me but somehow a scooter is involved. I've had many kind offers of support and of engines but nothing has felt right. I extend my thanks to all of you who have posted or contacted me. I've eliminated all of the repair or engine replacement options and now have my brain wrestling with how I will come to be on the road again.


Imaginary rides visit often during quiet moments. Perhaps a strategy will present itself that will put some sort of scooter in the garage that runs. The mental momentum is building, the spirit is willing and the flesh is too. The wheels are turning---something is coming!