ran out of gas

I was riding on the highway back from downtown. I almost made it home, when my engine just kind of died as soon as I merged on to 88W from 294S. I was already nervous because there was a state trooper that was pulling someone else over on the far left shoulder. I kept opening my throttle, but no power was coming through to the engine. I made my way over to the far right shoulder so I could figure out what was going on. My battery worked fine as I was able to turn on the bike's electrical system. But as soon as I hit the engine start button, it wouldn't start. I hoped it was just the lack of fuel. I was right. I waved down the state trooper to help me out after he finished writing up another car. He, of course, checked my stats to make sure I was a legitimate rider. Even though he pulled up in front of me, he had me move my bike in front of his car (for visibiity?). It was already dark by that time. After checking my stats, he called for an IDOT Help truck. It took them a good 20-30 mins. to arrive and in the meantime, the trooper was chatting with me. He asked me what it was like to ride. He also asked me if I knew anyone in DeKalb that rode since a motorcyclist fled from him not too long ago. Then he asked me what I think the punishment should be for that offense. I replied that I didn't know. He also asked how fast I've ever been on my bike. I replied that I usually just go with the flow of traffic -- so.. 75-80 is probably the fastest. He remarked, "Wow! You're a slow motorcyclist!" and I said, "I guess so -- I'm not too crazy on the bike in traffic roads." We chatted a bit more and he admitted that he wanted a bike too. He said that if he got a bike, he would want a cruiser and would want to ride it pretty fast. I just listened and laughed at the appropriate times. Before we knew it, the help truck arrived and the trooper left.

The IDOT help truck was able to help me out. charged me $10 for $2, but I really had no choice. At least he was nice. Yet of course, he asked me a bunch of questions about riding on the motorcycle and what not, but that was kind of expected. After getting gas, I was on my way and then refilled at the next gas station I could.

I was truly grateful for the trooper and the help truck and that neither were jerks!