Alright, gather ‘round, amigos, because February 2015 saw Mr. and Mrs. Knobby trading snow boots for riding boots and diving headfirst into the lush, chaotic beauty of Costa Rica. And, as always, chaos ensued.

Our journey began with a flight itinerary that resembled a game of connecting the dots played by a caffeinated squirrel: Boise-Houston-San Jose, departing at the ungodly hour of 7:30 am and landing at 9:27 pm. By the time we reached the Rincon del Valle Hotel, we were convinced we could sleep standing up.

Mr. Knobby, ever the purist, opted for the rugged Suzuki DR-Z400S, which he affectionately named “El Toro.” Mrs. Knobby, with a touch more sensibility (or perhaps just a better sense of self-preservation), chose the nimble Honda XR250, christened “La Cucaracha.”

Our first ride, from San Jose to Arenal, was a baptism by fire – or, more accurately, a baptism by pothole. Costa Rican roads are… enthusiastic. Let’s just say El Toro and La Cucaracha earned their stripes dodging potholes the size of small swimming pools and navigating hairpin turns that would make a mountain goat dizzy. Los Lagos Spa and Resort was a welcome oasis, complete with hot springs that soothed our weary bones and a view of Arenal Volcano that was, frankly, breathtaking.

A day in Arenal was spent ziplining, which involved Mrs. Knobby screaming like a banshee and Mr. Knobby trying to look cool while secretly gripping the harness for dear life.

The ride to Monteverde was a test of our off-road skills (or lack thereof). The “roads” were more like rocky, muddy trails, and La Cucaracha proved surprisingly adept at navigating the treacherous terrain. Arco Iris Lodge was a charming, eco-friendly haven, though the resident monkeys seemed to have a personal vendetta against our breakfast pastries.

Monteverde’s cloud forests were magical, even if the constant mist made us feel like we were living in a perpetual sauna. Then, it was off to Rincon de la Vieja and Hacienda Guachipelin, where we rode through volcanic landscapes and dodged steaming mud pots. Let’s just say the air smelled… interesting.

Brasilitos and Hotel Nany were a taste of the laid-back beach life, even if the local iguanas seemed to think our motorcycles were sunbathing platforms. Samara and Tico Adventure Lodge offered more beach time, and we learned to surf (or, more accurately, to fall off surfboards with style).

Santa Teresa and Otro Lado Lodge were pure bohemian bliss, with stunning sunsets and a vibe so chill it was practically horizontal. Then, it was on to Manuel Antonio and Hotel Mimo's, where we encountered monkeys that were experts at stealing snacks and tourists.

The ride to Santa Maria de Dota and Cabinas Cecilia took us into the heart of Costa Rica’s coffee country, where the air was filled with the aroma of freshly roasted beans. Paraiso and Hotel Sanchiri were a welcome respite, and the views were simply divine.

Our final ride, to Poasito and El Churrasco, was a culinary adventure, complete with delicious local cuisine and a view of Poas Volcano that was, again, breathtaking. Finally, we returned to San Jose and the Rincon del Valle Hotel, tired but triumphant.

What did we learn? Costa Rica is a land of incredible biodiversity, breathtaking landscapes, and roads that will test your riding skills and your patience. El Toro and La Cucaracha proved to be worthy steeds, even if they occasionally resembled mud-caked beasts. And most importantly, Mr. and Mrs. Knobby learned that even when you’re covered in mud and dodging monkeys, the adventure is always worth it.

So, folks, if you’re looking for a motorcycle adventure that’s equal parts challenging and rewarding, Costa Rica is your place. Just be prepared for potholes, monkeys, and the occasional iguana sunbathing on your motorcycle. Until next time, pura vida!