Ride Thoughts with Paul Catalin
Hey there! I’m Paul, a motorcycle enthusiast and content creator from Bucharest. I’ve been passionate about bikes since I was a kid, and I’ve always dreamed of riding my own motorcycle. I started with a smaller bike to learn and develop all the skills I needed before moving on to a “full-size” motorcycle. Today, I share my riding experiences and fun, lighthearted content online, hoping to put a smile on my followers’ faces while inspiring them with my motorcycle journey.
Instagram: @Paul.Catalin_
Who or what inspired you to start riding?
Ever since I was young, I was fascinated by bikes. My parents got me an electric scooter when I was 10, but when I turned 16 they didn’t let me have a proper 125cc because they knew I wasn’t ready for the road at that age. With time I matured, and after more than 10 years of driving experience, I finally felt it was the right moment to go for my full motorcycle license.
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What was your first bike, and how did it feel to ride it?
My first motorcycle is actually the one I ride now, a Honda Rebel 500 FOP (SE version in the US). It feels amazing on the road: very comfortable and surprisingly nimble, even with the fat tires. I also love its looks, and I truly believe it’s one of the best bikes to start your riding journey with because it gave me confidence as a new rider.
How would you describe the feeling of being on the open road?
For me, the feeling of being on the open road can be summed up in one word: freedom. On a bike, you experience everything: the sun, the wind, the rain, even the shifts in climate as you pass through different environments on longer rides. And of course, being able to filter through traffic makes it even better. Anyone living in a big city knows exactly what I mean.
What do you look for in riding gear? Style, comfort, or protection?
Honestly, I look for all three style, comfort, and protection. NBT does a great job combining them. Their gear not only looks great, but it’s also comfortable enough to match the feeling of freedom you get on the bike, while still giving you the protection you need.
What's your dream motorcycle, and why?
In would love to own an Indian Scout Bobber Limited Tech, I think is obvious why I got the Rebel 500 as my first motorcycle.
How do you stay safe while riding?
By wearing the best looking, the most comfortable and AA/AAA rated protection gear on the market! And of course by being cautious, because every mistake on the bike could be fatal.
How do you balance riding with your other responsibilities?
I actually ride my motorcycle to work every day, so it naturally fits into my routine and doesn’t take away from other responsibilities. For me, riding isn’t just a hobby, it’s also my main way of getting around. Longer trips I usually plan in advance, so they don’t interfere with work or personal commitments. It’s all about balance, and since riding is part of my daily life, it feels effortless to combine it with everything else I do.
Do you listen to music while riding? If so, what’s on your playlist?
Yes, I usually listen to music while riding. Bands like 3 Doors Down and Breaking Benjamin are always on my playlist. I’ve been a fan of this kind of music since I was a kid, so it naturally became the soundtrack to my rides.
How do you maintain your bike between rides?
I keep a regular routine to make sure my bike stays in top shape. I do chain maintenance roughly every 500 km, and I also give it a wash once a week. Keeping up with these basics helps the bike run smoothly and look great.
What’s your go-to piece of riding gear?
My go-to piece of riding gear is the Wyman 1902 Armored Jacket. I love the quality, and the fact that I can wear it even on hot days without feeling like I’m burning inside. It’s very comfortable, and with the removable flannel liner it’s also perfect for chillier rides.
What's the most important thing you've learned from the riding community?
The most important thing I’ve learned from the riding community is the sense of camaraderie. No matter where you are, riders are always willing to help you out, even if they don’t know you. It’s a community built on mutual respect, support, and shared passion for riding.
What’s next for you in your riding journey?
Next for me in my riding journey is creating high-quality content to share my passion with others. I’ve recently started posting on YouTube in addition to Instagram, and I’m committed to staying consistent and growing as a creator while enjoying every ride.
How has riding shaped your identity?
Riding has really shaped my identity. When I first started, I wanted to get a camera for safety in case of an accident, but that led me to start sharing my rides online. Over time, it’s helped me grow as a person, refine my skills, and even build a small community around my passion for motorcycles.
What’s a skill or habit you think every rider should develop?
I think every rider should develop the habit of staying constantly aware and anticipating what’s happening around them. Riding isn’t just about handling the bike, it’s also about being prepared for any situation on the road, from traffic changes to unexpected obstacles. Good awareness and defensive riding can make all the difference in staying safe.
