I'm looking at this thread and thinking 'Quite a few flippant answers here!' and I think that's because its so hard to some up in a few words. I do know that no matter how hard I try some of my freinds just don't get it. You can see it in their eyes they are thinking 'Why? Cars are so much more comfortable, and why Iran/Pakistan? Europe is much safer, easier, more relaxing etc.' And the funny thing is they are right.
But some of my freinds say 'COOL!' and you can see from the light in their eyes and the unsupressed grin they mean it. They know that the discomfort and vulnerability are worth it. They know that adventure does not come without risk. They are also aware that a cup of nescafe heated in a battered aluminium pot over a roaring petrol stove as the sun rises over some exotic mountain range tastes better than huge cup of choccamoccachino with chocolate sprinkles in a big sofa at a holiday resort on the Med. And they are right too.
It's not that one way is de facto BETTER than the other it's just that adventure motorcycling SUITS US better. And while there may be particular facets of the experience that appeal most to the individual motorcyclist (fast off road action/leisurely cruising through exotic cultures etc.) I think there is an indefinable quality of adventure (indefinable by me at least) inate in travelling by motorcycle that either appeals to your natural make up or not. It's why some people lie on the beach while others go surfing and why some people ski into the back-country while the majority queue for chairlifts. To some up I don't really think the question should be 'Why a bike?' but more 'What type of person...?'
JMHO
Matt

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*Disclaimer* - I am not saying my bike is better than your bike. I am not saying my way is better than your way. I am not mocking your religion/politics/other belief system. When reading my post imagine me sitting behind a frothing pint of ale, smiling and offering you a bag of peanuts. This is the sentiment in which my post is made. Please accept it as such!