Analyzing the Motorcycle Wave

Reader Contribution by Pat Parziale
Published on August 24, 2011
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Pat Parziale’s been a little disappointed with the quality of motorcycle
waves he’s received while riding his 2002 Kawasaki Sherpa.

Not long ago I purchased another motorcycle, a dual sport 2002 Kawasaki Sherpa. As of the moment, I have three very different motorcycles. First is an old school cool cruiser, a 1982 Honda CB900 with a 10-speed transmission. Second, is a highly capable Honda Helix, a classic maxi-scooter from the 80s which Honda continued to produce well into the late 2000s. The third is the previously mentioned Kawasaki Sherpa.

While not a classic, the Sherpa is a near perfect representation of historic motorcycle design, the lightweight on and off-road motorcycle. I say all this to lead into a discussion which recently has dawned on me … the motorcycle wave. I wish to take the time to briefly explain some things that go through my mind in regards to the “wave” for purely entertainment purposes.

Anyone who has thrown a leg over a motorcycle has seen the “wave.” The description of the motorcycle wave is pretty vague, but basically it is the act of acknowledging another biker while riding. It is a simple gesture that defines the brotherhood (and sisterhood) of motorcyclists. I personally wave to anyone I see on a motorcycle of any kind, but there are plenty of those who don’t. And I must say the one’s that don’t, seem to fall into stereotypical categories. Allow me to expound.

Pat gets his best waves while riding his 1982 Honda CB900.

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