Why We Ride- Ameury's story

“Riding is my time. We live in a chaotic time period with things pulling us left and right. When I ride, I'm not thinking about anything except the sound of the engine, braking in and accelerating out of the apex and the connection I have to my bike. When riding, the bike literally feels like it is part of you. It is definitely comparable to meditation, in a controlled chaos type of way.”

Today we sit down with Triumph Brooklyn’s GSM Ameury and talk about the “Why we Ride” with him.  The journey to riding began very early in his life as he recounts with us here: “When I was about 5-6 years old, I remember being in the backseat of my parents car cruising on the expressway. Out of nowhere, I started hearing this loud noise coming from behind us, and a sport bike appeared. The rider looked so calm, focused and free on this beastly machine. And as fast as he appeared, he disappeared. I remember feeling so many emotions from that split second experience and from that moment I knew I needed to ride.” 

This story resonated so deeply with me and I knew we had to share more of his experience with you.  When asked what inspired him to get his license he recalls learning to ride After buying his first motorcycle, at 17 years old.  Previously he rode mini bikes, moped’s small dirt bikes, but the real learning started at that age and he ended up getting his license a few years after.

Tell us about your journey when you were first learning to ride: who, what, when, where, why?

“My first day on a “full on” motorcycle was when I purchased my first R6. I had never ridden anything of that size or configuration before. At 15, I had a part time job as a dishwasher. I would go to work, everyday after school. My goal was to save every dollar and be able to buy my own motorcycle, and 2 years later my dream came true. When I saved enough money, went to my local dealership and purchased my very own Yamaha R6. I picked that bike solely based on esthetics. That might have not been the right choice for someone who has never ridden anything of that caliber before. When everything was all said and done, the salesperson took me and the bike outside gave me a quick walk around, but had no idea that “I” had no idea. I remember asking him to explain to me how to start the bike, where the brake and clutch were located. Etc..When he finished going over the bike, he quickly ran back in the store and was peeking through the window. I'm sure he was waiting for a disaster. When I was finally ready, I threw my leg over the bike, put it in first and stalled about 5 times before I moved a few feet. After a few more embarrassing moments, I was riding toward the interstate without looking back. I figured if i learned how to go through the gears, I should be “Good To Go”.”

What were the challenges you faced?  What were your victories?

At that time, a safety course wasn’t a common thing. Ameury didn't know anyone who rode and growing up in NYC limited riding access at a young age. His parents hated the idea of him ever riding so that created an even bigger challenge. Being able to just get through all of that at the age that he did, gave him the confidence to achieve anything he wanted.

Ameury is a true Enthusiast. In his own words:  “I’m blessed to own a few motorcycles ranging from Triumph’s, KTM’s and a few customs.” He primarily rides alone, or accompanied by his wife. He does enjoy riding in a group as long as everyone is in sync and focused as the best rides always have twists and turns.

Road, Track, Trail, Touring, Adventure, or all of the above?

"Anything I can ride through on 2 wheels!!"

What is your fondest motorcycle related memory?

"Some of my best memories have been on the track. I LOVE riding on the track. I have great memories riding all day and then camping overnight, right on the track. I can say that I was truly disconnected from the world and my biggest focus was keeping my knee down."

What else would you like to share about motorcycles, riding, and being part of the motorcycle community?

"I’m just happy at how much the motorcycle community has grown. More than ever there is support from fellow riders and tons of options with motorcycles. NY hasn’t always been a motorcycle friendly place, but with the amount of riders that there currently are, it has changed. I look forward to growing with and servicing the community. Being in this industry with the amazing people I'm surrounded by on a daily basis is a dream come true."

If you don't know Ameury, I highly recommend heading down to the shop and spending a few minutes chatting with him.  He is one of the most positive, outgoing, passionate about the two wheel culture people I have the pleasure of  knowing who always puts a smile on my face every time we chat.