Bruce Agababian
Wixom, Michigan

Current bike(s):
1994 Honda CBR1000F
1982 Suzuki 750EZ
1974 Suzuki GT250

Years riding:
30 Years

Joined HSTA:
2003

How did you first hear about the HSTA:
I had picked up a local motorcycle newspaper at a motorcycle dealer, which had a listing of motorcycle clubs in the area.  I had called the number listed for the HSTA, but couldn’t get through.  In 2003, I attended the Detroit Motorcycle Show, and the Michigan Squadron had a booth set up to recruit members.  That’s where I met Gregg, and he told me about the meetings.

First Bike:
The bike pictured at right with the semi bald guy in leathers standing behind it.  The 1974 Suzuki GT250.  Yes, I am the original owner.

Favorite Bike:
They’re all my favorite.  That’s why I’ve kept every bike I ever owned. 

Who (or what) was your biggest influence in motorcycling?
I always wanted a bike when I was younger, but my parents were totally against it.  Then I got a ride on a Honda 750 that belonged to my best friend.  I was hooked after that.  My parent’s stipulation was “when you turn 21 you can do what ever you want”.  I was 22 when I bought my first bike.

Favorite place to ride:
The Blue Ridge Parkway.  I rode the complete length once, and sections twice.  North Carolina’s section is the best.  I used to attend the Honda Hoot every summer, which used to be held in Ashville, North Carolina.  Fabulous roads, spectacular vistas and well maintained roads. 

Most memorable motorcycle adventure:
In 1986 I went on Edelweiss Tour through the Alps.  Picked up a BMW 3 cylinder 750 in Munich, and rode 14 days through Germany, Austria, northern Italy, Switzerland, and Luxemburg and back to Germany.  We were in the mountains most of the time, riding on really challenging roads.  Steep inclines and descents; with really sharp hairpin turns, tour buses and no guard rails (just little posts that stuck out of the ground that you could grab as you went sliding by).  The mountains were glorious.  We even rode through a 12 foot thick glacier that was cut out for the road.  I saw my first “nude beach” in northern Italy.  And the Germans know how to make good beer.  (I can attest to that Bruce…I drank lots of “pils” while in Heidelberg couple years ago!)

Best motorcycle advice or tip learned over the years:
When traveling, always bring clothes for heat, cold and rain.  A good rain suit and gloves are essential. And don’t forget your tools.

What turns you on the most about motorcycling or why do you like to ride?
I like the “Zen like” quality of motorcycling.  On a good ride, your mind unravels.  All of your daily cares and worries seem meaningless.  The air seems clearer, your sense of smell is more acute and what you see and feel is heightened.  There is a sense of calm after a long day in the saddle.  And oh ya, I like to go really fast.

What do you get out of the HSTA?
I enjoy hanging out with like minded individuals.  I enjoy the teasing and good-natured jabs we all give and receive.  I like being with people who think nothing of having 3 or more motorcycles in their garage and their favorite bike in the living room.  (Now there’s a space I had not considered using before…thanks Bruce!)

Hobbies and interests outside of motorcycling:
I am a card carrying union musician (Local 5, American Federation of Musicians).  I play bass guitar in a 16-piece swing band called One Beat Back.  I also play in a jazz combo called the GQ Quartet.  I really enjoy doing the website for the HSTA Michigan Squadron.   And then, there is the “nerdy stuff”.  I like model railroads.  Yes, I have a model railroad in my basement.  It’s a lot of fun to work on in the winter months.  And (oh my God) I collect stamps.  I am not a serious collector.  Stamps look like little pieces of art.   And I consider myself an artist, you know…you get the connection.

Best question that wasn’t asked:
Question:  What is your “dream tour?”
Answer:   A figure “8” of the country.  Start in Detroit, head southwest to California.  Ride up the Costal Highway US1 to Washington State, head southeast down to Florida to the Keys; back up the eastern coast to Maine, and back down to Michigan.  No time line…no schedule…no cares.

Bruce is also our current HSTA webmaster as well as owner of BHA Design Incorporated.