I'm a young American adventurer (of sorts), amateur photographer, writer, environmentalists, thrill-seeker. I'm a male. I'm also Black. Question for you guys (and ladies); what are your thoughts on motorcycle touring with regard to color/class/etc on your various adventures?

I am always looked at funny (in the States at least) because I think I'm probably one of a handful of "nicely-tanned" kayakers, hikers, climbers, bikers, you name it and I've tried it. My parents and "significant other" are extremely afraid that in my travels something will happen to me solely because of race. That's true here in the American south, but I'm not sure about elsewhere.

I am most interested in travelling in Central and South America, the Caribbean, and perhaps Africa (ah, the Motherland). I'd like to know if any of you- most of which I would assume to be of European descent-have encountered other Black riders. How would I be treated in say, downtown San Jose or the outskirts of some Brazilian jungle town?

Am I asking for real trouble or is this a minor worry besides robbery, snakes, engine failure, etc? Whatever may occur, I want to document it and I'm wondering if such stories would offer a different slant on this sport we love so much.

BTW, I ride a Serow XT225 (don't laugh) but a DR650 is in the works very soon.

Thanks.

Emil King http://www.geocities.com/originalbluepeanut/