I’m Paul Larson, the rider behind Moto219. I began riding at age 11, exploring the trails of Florida’s Ocala National Forest before moving into amateur motocross and, eventually, long-distance touring and adventure travel. More than 50 years later, I have ridden throughout much of the United States and Canada, including Alaska and the Yukon.
“Somewhere beyond the hard miles is the reason you didn’t turn around.”
Sometimes the plan is simply a direction.
My longest single motorcycle journey ran from July 28 through October 11, 2023. Over approximately 2½ months, it covered more than 14,000 miles through 27 states and five Canadian provinces: British Columbia, Alberta, Saskatchewan, Manitoba and Ontario. Those figures describe that one journey ... not my lifetime riding experience.
Some trips are carefully planned. Others simply start with a direction, a motorcycle and enough time to see where the road leads.
“Plan the ride, but leave enough room for the road to have an opinion.”
Prepare carefully. Remain flexible.
Mileage, weather, fuel range, rest, lodging, road conditions and the rider’s experience all have to work together.
When something goes wrong ... and eventually something will ... deal with it, learn from it and keep moving.
Share what the road has taught.
Moto219 is where I share the roads, stories, lessons and practical knowledge gathered along the way.
It is also a resource for riders planning their own journeys ... from route reviews to complete trip plans and first long-distance adventures.
Every rider, motorcycle and journey is different. My goal is to help riders avoid preventable mistakes and create trips that fit how they genuinely want to ride.
“Every person you meet has traveled a road you haven’t. Listen closely ... you may learn something no map could ever show you.”
There is always something left to learn.
Ride. Rest. Repeat.