Motorcycle Shopping

Photo info: Apple iPhone 15 Pro, 6.7649998656528mm, f/1.8, 1/190 sec, ISO64
“Speed Twin with Bell” Austin, 2025

Today I went to look at motorcycles with my friend and I spotted what might be my future bike, or at least the same model. This one only had 200 miles on the odometer and a few add-ons, so it would be a great find for someone. I prefer a different livery for the Triumph Speed Twin 900, so I wasn’t too tempted to buy it. What really caught my eye, though, was a little bell attached to the bottom of the frame.

It turns out this is called a gremlin bell and it’s meant to keep away mischievous gremlins that cause mechanical trouble. The fun part is that you’re not supposed to buy one for yourself. It has to be given to you by someone who cares about you. It’s like a protective charm with a built-in story.

If you’re looking for a thoughtful gift for a rider in your life, there are some great options like the Guardian Bell, the Angel Rider Bell, or even plain styles. What a neat tradition!

Burger Ride to Tex Miller’s

Photo info: Apple iPhone 15 Pro, 6.7649998656528mm, f/1.8, 1/1900 sec, ISO80
“KIki” Cameron, 2025

I came across a post in the Austin Motorcycling subreddit called “100 mile burger,” where riders share their favorite burger spots that are just far enough away to make the ride feel like an adventure. I saved a handful of recommendations and decided to check one off my list today.

The ride out to Tex Miller’s in Cameron took about an hour and a half, winding through Hutto and Taylor. I’d been that way a couple of months back, so I already knew it would be a good route.

Tex Miller’s is a cozy, family-run spot serving up tasty smashed burgers. I went for the bacon cheeseburger, and it did not disappoint – juicy, flavorful, and just the right amount of messy. Paired with an ice-cold root beer, it was the perfect reward after cruising through the Texas heat with temps pushing into the 90s.

Photo info: Apple iPhone 15 Pro, 6.7649998656528mm, f/1.8, 1/5000 sec, ISO80
“Tex Miller’s” Cameron, 2025
Photo info: Apple iPhone 15 Pro, 6.7649998656528mm, f/1.8, 1/60 sec, ISO125
“Bacon Cheeseburger” Cameron, 2025

Sunday Ride

Photo info: Apple iPhone 15 Pro, 6.7649998656528mm, f/1.8, 1/8000 sec, ISO80
“Kiki” Cedar Park, 2025

I headed out for an early ride with Kiki today to get ahead of the heat. Cruising the local roads was such a blast, especially since some of them have those long, sweeping curves that are perfect for leaning into the ride.
To wrap things up, I found a quiet little road and spent some time practicing u-turns. I can feel myself getting better with each try. Always good to keep sharpening those skills!

Evening Rides

Photo info: Apple iPhone 15 Pro, 6.7649998656528mm, f/1.8, 1/120 sec, ISO100
“Dusk with Kiki” Cedar Park, 2025

I’m enjoying the evening rides with Kiki. It’s been so hot during the day, but once the sun goes down, the weather becomes really pleasant. I usually just cruise around the nearby neighborhoods, but it’s always a lot of fun.

Sunset Ride

Photo info: Apple iPhone 15 Pro, 6.7649998656528mm, f/1.8, 1/210 sec, ISO64
“Kiki at Sunset” Cedar Park, 2025

I went for a ride to catch the sunset, and it was beautiful! After that, I followed a road that runs alongside a creek. There were so many bugs flying around that my helmet’s faceshield ended up covered in their tiny carcasses. It was kind of gross.