Issue link: http://trailridermagazine.uberflip.com/i/105496
powerful XR. There are a few places though where a bit of "trail finesse," must be used, lest you will end up in places where you don't want to go. At these junctures, I stand up on the foot pegs, apply a sufficient amount of throttle and use my body weight to apply the proper amount of body English to assist the bike in its search for traction. There is a very narrow section that crosses a small restriction damn at one of the canyons, that is a bit of a white knuckle affair, if you make an improper approach. Once up to the highest part of the trail, I shut my bike off at one of my favorite look out points. There is a large tree there that I sit under and look out to the West. Before me, is The Great Salt Lake with Antelope Island square in the center of the scene. The lake is now about 80 mile long, north to south and 40 miles heading west. Old lake Bonneville was 380 miles by 120 miles in its heyday. The sun is now only inches from setting behind the peak on Antelope Island and the mood is one of a beautiful autumn dusk, then a twilight evening. I watch the sun fully set behind the island peak as I'm sure many Indians did in recent history. I give thanks to the universe and my creator for the privilege of being able to view such a glorious sight. I continue north on the upper most trails, heading back towards Layton. As the day becomes night, I lift the tinted visor of my helmet so I can see the trail better. Eventually the trail comes to a point where I can head down the mountain. The 4X4 trail becomes a dirt road, then a gravel road, then paved as it winds 62 Trail Rider down the streets and houses east of Main St. near Farmington. Eventually, I make my way down to Main St. and turn north. I accelerate at good clip as the Honda grips the road and stretches my arms. At 50 MPH the Honda's engine purrs, a sound I never tire of. I soon arrive home. I park "Old Thunder," in the garage, take off my riding gear and shut the gas valve, grateful for this modern vehicle that can take me back in time and away from my crowded day to day life. www.TrailRider.com