Tom Nolan
Ride Captain / Membership Ambassador
I started riding in the spring of 1965—despite my mother’s firm command: “You will not own a motorcycle.” Ignoring that directive, I secretly bought a Triumph Tiger Cub and kept it in the garage of a high school friend. His parents never seemed to notice, as there was a steady stream of us coming and going as we worked on refitting a 1961 Corvette.
After high school, I purchased my dream bike—a 1965 Triumph Bonneville T120. That love affair lasted until I discovered a 1973 Moto Guzzi Eldorado, which eventually grew into a succession of five more Moto Guzzis.
My first BMW was a 1981 R65, followed over the years by a K100RT, R1100RT, R1150 Rockster, R1150RT, K1200GT, and my current regular ride, a K1300GT.
Along the way, there were a few other notable additions: a KTM 620 LC4, a Kawasaki KLR 650—on which, at age 69, I rode the Trans America Trail—two Yamaha FJR1300s, and a Ducati 750 Monster. I’m sure I’ve missed a bike or two, but that’s the bulk of the story.
I lived in Sarasota, Florida, for more than 30 years, where I was active with the Sun Beemers club, serving as President, Vice President, Treasurer, and chair of the Sun Your Buns Rally four times.
I’m counting on BMWNEF to help keep me swinging a leg over a motorcycle for as long as possible. Please join us. BMWNEF regularly provides four opportunities to ride each month.
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