Riding the Yamaha to glory

Global warming may eventually lead to catastrophic consequences, but occasionally it creates conditions that offer unexpected pleasures. Yesterday, Kadizzle decided to take advantage of one of those moments by firing up his Yamaha XT250—a motorcycle perfectly suited for an older rider. Designed to tackle diverse terrains, this bike is the ultimate companion for exploring remote areas. That said, riding solo requires caution; a misplaced burst of courage can leave you on the ground with the bike on top of you.

Living next to the National Forest has its perks, chief among them the ability to quickly escape onto scenic forest service roads. Kadizzle set off toward Doll Baby Ranch, beginning with about five miles of dirt roads. Once he hit pavement, the real fun began. A pickup truck soon appeared, and an impromptu game of "catch me if you can" unfolded. Kadizzle held his own until the pavement gave way to dirt, at which point the Yamaha effortlessly left the truck trailing in a cloud of dust.

The journey included a crossing of the East Verde River. Despite some hesitation due to a makeshift dam constructed at the crossing point, Kadizzle took the plunge and crossed without incident. The dirt road that followed is not for the faint of heart; it winds along a ridge, offering breathtaking panoramic views. For anyone accustomed to the denser landscapes of the East, the vastness of the West is nothing short of awe-inspiring—a sentiment Kadizzle still feels, even after years of exploration.

As the road climbed toward higher elevations, Kadizzle decided to dismount at a peak for a brief hike to take in the scenery. While enjoying the solitude, he heard the distant hum of a four-wheeler. Soon, a man and his daughter appeared in a buggy, slowly navigating the narrow road. They paused to check on him, concerned after seeing him on foot in such a remote area with no motorcycle in sight. Kadizzle reassured them that all was well and thanked them for their thoughtful outdoor ethics.

The final stretch of the 27-mile journey meandered back toward the East Verde River. From high above, Kadizzle caught glimpses of idyllic swimming holes—hidden gems likely cherished by local adventurers. The dirt road eventually transitioned back to pavement north of Payson, marking the end of a spectacular ride. With clear skies and warm weather as his companions, Kadizzle wrapped up another unforgettable day in the semi-desert wilderness.