My next gig was with the Chicago Region BMW Motorcycle Owners Association. John had been corresponding for months with its president, Patrick King. I did not know much about the group but having had such a good experience with the Downeast Maine BMW group, I was optimistic.
We arrived early at the parking lot of the Elmhurst Elks Club, their meeting headquarters. The building was near a busy intersection next to a liquor store and a storefront check-cashing business. Riders on all makes of BMWs started arriving. Judging by their gear, the bugs in their teeth—metaphorical and otherwise, their great bikes, and the ease with which they handled them—as if the motorcycles were extensions of their physical bodies, these were all experienced riders, some expert riders. The bikes ranged from vintage Airheads—iconic bikes from the late 60s—to new dual sports with fancy side cases and LED lights. The riders all knew one another greeting each other with jokes, back slaps, and handshakes.