50,000 kms of memories with my Red Goddess

It all started with a casual trip to the Jawa showroom — just me and my brother, checking out bikes like responsible adults. I was this close to booking one, but somehow, I chickened out. Timing wasn’t right, or maybe my wallet staged a rebellion. 😊

Months later, curiosity (and maybe fate) dragged me to the Honda showroom. One test ride on the CB350 RS, and boom — instant chemistry. I was ready to book the yellow-and-black beauty, heart set and mind made up.

 

Then my brother, playing the role of accidental cupid, pointed to a red CB350 RS. I looked, and suddenly it was love at first sight. That red beast wasn’t just a bike — it was my bike. No hesitation, no second thoughts. I booked it.

 

And a few days later — on my birthday, no less — I brought home the bike that reignited my passion for riding. Not planned, not predicted, but absolutely perfect.

 

I named her Lakshmi 6.0 — because every biker needs a little goddess on their side. Also, “Lakshmi” has always been my lucky charm. It’s part of my mother’s name, and every vehicle I’ve ever owned has carried it. A nod to divine blessings and maternal love. (Fun fact:— guess I’m just loyal to the goddess of fortune!)

 

 

The Awakening

My first long ride was with a college buddy — a trip to Ooty. Up to that point, I barely rode beyond my neighborhood, and 80 kmph was my “highway speed.” We joined a pack of over 50 riders, but only five of us formed a chill subgroup.

We took our sweet time, stopping whenever the mood hit, soaking in the views, and generally being the tortoises of the ride. It took forever to reach Ooty, but man, it was glorious. I realized then — it’s not about rushing; it’s about savoring every twist and turn.

Across South India with My Trusty Steed

Of course, the transition wasn’t exactly smooth. There was sweat, blood, and a whole lot of trial and error. And yes — a few well-deserved scoldings from a certain someone who shall not be named. (If you’re reading this, you know it was you — don’t act innocent now 😄). Along the way, a few other well-wishers also stepped in with their honest, constructive feedback. Together, they all helped shape the rider I am today.

Over the last four years, Lakshmi 6.0 and I have chased the sun across South India — from Goa’s lively beaches to the misty hills of Mahabaleshwar, the green expanses of Lambasingi, the quiet sands of Gokarna, peaceful Vagamon, and the ancient ruins of Hampi.

We’ve torn through Bandipur’s forests, zigzagged along Valparai’s winding roads, and cruised through the misty Sholayar and Idamalayar forests on our way to the majestic Athirapalli waterfalls — all while my imagination ran wild with the thought of a rogue elephant charging out of the trees!

 

We even ventured into Gavi’s wilderness, where we slept in a tent with the chaotic orchestra of elephants and tigers echoing through the night. And of course, the magical Wayanad — green, serene, and unforgettable.  Ofcourse, how can we miss the daredevilry 70+ hair pin bends of Kolli Hills, which was the cherry on top of all the rides and a dream ride for any biker.

From a guy who once thought 80 kmph was fast, I’ve gone on to cover massive distances — including an epic east-to-west run in a single day. Not bad for a newbie, right?

The Road to a Riding Brotherhood

Somewhere along those winding roads and chai breaks, something unexpected happened — we formed a family.

A few of us decided to branch off and start something new. It wasn’t just me; it was more like a rebellion on two wheels. What began as a small circle of familiar faces has since grown into a vibrant crew of over 4 dozen riders, all bonded by the open road, sunrises, laughter, breakdowns, and way too many pitstops for tea.

 

In less than two years, we’re already closing in on our 25th group ride. Every journey has deepened friendships, turned strangers into siblings, and made each ride an event worth counting down to.

 

The Bottom Line

So here I am — 50,000kms later, with scratches, stories, and memories. And I’m still head over heels for Lakshmi 6.0.

 

It’s not just about horsepower or bling; it’s about the connection, the joy of the ride, and that feeling of freedom no speedometer can measure. Through every journey — be it smooth highways or challenging forest trails — Lakshmi 6.0 has never let me down. She fires up without fail, handles every twist and turn with grace, and keeps going strong no matter what the road throws our way.

That kind of reliable companion is rare, and I’m grateful for every kilometer we’ve shared.

Not the End, Just a Milestone

I get asked a lot: “When are you upgrading to a bigger, faster machine?”

Maybe someday.

Maybe there’s a Lakshmi 7.0 waiting in the wings.

 

But for now, I’ll keep riding with Lakshmi 6.0, sharing our stories, soaking up the scenery, and chasing that next horizon.

 

Here’s to Lakshmi 6.0 — my red beauty, my trusted partner, and the keeper of countless adventures. And here’s to the next 50,000kms of laughs, memories, and the open road calling out my name.