While waiting for the light to turn green so we could ride one of my favorite stretch of roads, Highway 150 between Santa Paula and Ojai, I noticed a sign for Kawasaki in the museum's window. Which made the next move into a parking place automatic. For the past 25 years we have been riding through Santa Paula, a town that has a rich history of motorcycling. Starting in 1928 when two motor officers in the early morning hours sped through the town warning citizens of the impending flood when the St. Thomas Dam broke, to Kenny Howard's, aka the real Von Dutch's last hangout, to the meeting him in the Chili Hut, and finally from Steve McQueen and his wife living at the Airport, and pushing a button to open the hangar and watch the planes land from their bed, bikes and bikers are a part of the valley. So it is only natural that over the years the Santa Paula Oil Museum would have motorcycle based exhibits. In this old building on the corner of Tenth and Main, it was Union Oil Company's first office, and was for many years. Nothing big and fancy, but very interesting and educational. Over the years they have had various exhibits of Italian bikes, board racers, Harleys, and now through September 18th, Kawasakis from a private collector. We even met Ken Ranzor there once, one of the original Victor McLaglen riders, who gave us a tour of old race bikes, and spent the afternoon with us at the museum. Later at a show we made the day for many veteran McLaglen riders telling them about Ken, he had dropped out of sight, and some wondered if he was still alive. Listened to their stories and watched as they heard of their old riding buddy. Friends of a friend we became to them. So much action in such a small town at such a small museum. Pays to pay attention. Especially while riding.
We even had a tour once of the living quarters and executive offices upstairs by an ex-general manager who was a docent. It was just like being in his home back in the fifties, and it gave the oil history tour had a face to it. But today it was about Kawasaki, and so we paid our $4, up from $2, someone has to keep the lights on, didn't bother to punch in, and walked through the small, yet interesting exhibit. About 10 of Kawasaki's old triples were on display, each original or restored original, plus a first year Z-1, and a 1978 Z-1R Turbo. A small case with some memorabilia, and a chance to relive the early 70's when ring-a-ding-ding two strokes smoked everything else. And if you were there, you know why I said smoked. They were fast, and loud, and smoked a lot, a fact my friend Bill learned one day when trying to race one guy who had his girlfriend on the back, and walked away from his CB750. Ah, the good, old days!
But mixed in with the others was a 1000cc, 4 cylinder, one off Mach IV, so clean it looked factory. And from the 1969 original Mach III, to the Z-1R, I quickly bored Theresa with stories of them all. Not really bored, but just enough to make 150 all that more appealing on this bright summer day. So off we were, making sure that our next trip to the area will include a trip through downtown. Never know what you will see at the museum. Oh, by the way, there was also an exhibit of Santa Paula police with some interesting period photos, many of bikes of course. Just gotta love a town who loves motorcycles as much!
Jesus exhorts us to "as we go, make disciples of those we meet." The key words, "as we go." For no one is certain what lies ahead, and certain people come into our lives when least expected. As any biker knows, the road is a great destination, you others hurry too much to where you are going. It is in these seasons-in and out, that we should be ready. Ready to be that example of Jesus Christ. Whether riding, walking, or waiting in line-someone is watching. And so should we. For what appears to be just an old building, to us has turned into many hours of enjoyment. An old town, of fruit packers, has turned into a haven for many weekends spent riding. And because we took the time along the way to stop, look, and listen, we have been educated, met some interesting people, and blessed-more than any sign in the window would indicate. Or invite.
Jesus Christ adds this to our lives. He lets His light shine on us not only in church on Sunday, but on the roads while riding and wherever we go during the week. He was an outside guy, and loved being among the people. Some who looked like derelicts like many bikers I know, but when you look past the rough exterior are great people. But you need to get out there, and take the time and visit. Jesus did-and does.
After breakfast one morning at the airport diner, we stood on the edge of the runway watching the old planes take off and land. No cops, no lines, no ropes. I guess they figured we were smart enough to not get in the way. God looks at us the same way. Get out and see the world, show them His love, and you won't be in the way. Let Him change the heart, you be the back up needed to help them along. Just like the museum, you add life to His words, and get hands on experience. Never knowing what is next. He calls it life-I call it riding.
Add Jesus to the list of names we met in Santa Paula. For many great times have been had there because He is with us. He rides, knows the roads, and knows great places to eat and meet. Like an old building with a Kawasaki sign in the window. Take the time and smell the castor today-a breath of heaven to some, and a place to rest for others. Along the way, as you go...with Jesus.
love with compassion,
Mike
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