Brothers in Dirt: A JCI Manila Motorbike Adventure Through Vietnam

Personal Connection to Motorbikes

For many riders, the love affair with motorbikes begins with a single spark. For me, it was the film Top Gun. Watching Maverick chase fighter jets on a Kawasaki GPZ900R to the soundtrack of Danger Zone ignited a passion that has grown into a lifelong obsession. Over the years, I’ve devoured motorcycle films, read books on motorcycle design, and studied the physics of riding. Simply put, I’m a total geek when it comes to these machines.

“Adventure is in our DNA. A motorcycle isn’t just a machine—it’s a Deus Ex Machina, a savior on two wheels, ready to take you anywhere with just a twist of the wrist.”

So, what do I love most about riding? It’s the freedom. I’ve backpacked solo across the world, camped in strangers’ backyards, and even jumped from planes, yet nothing compares to the feeling of gliding on a motorcycle. It’s a sensation MotoGP champion Jorge Lorenzo describes as mantequilla—like butter on bread. There’s also something inherently adventurous about riding. As the book Wild at Heart suggests, men have an innate need for adventure, and motorcycles offer a gateway to that thrill. Just a twist of the wrist can take you away from the ordinary.

Ultimately, this passion has shaped my outlook on life. I live by the mantra: “Life is not measured by the number of breaths you take, but by the moments that take your breath away.” For me, it’s about collecting experiences that will replay vividly in my mind at the end of the road. I strive to live with all my heart.

The Vietnam Adventure

Every great ride starts with a plan—or, in our case, a conversation among fellow bike enthusiasts during tambikes sessions (a term for hanging out and talking bikes). The catalyst for this particular adventure was none other than Danny Perez, who took the lead in crafting an epic itinerary. Shoutout to Danny—an absolute legend.

Brothers in Dirt from left to right: Michael Sean Uy, Jaime Barlizo, Jerrold Santos, Danny Perez, Carlo Delantar. Bound by adventure, forged on the trails.

Our route took us from the bustling streets of Hanoi to the scenic trails of Sơn Tây and Hoa Binh. The journey was no easy feat—12 grueling hours on the road tested both our skills and endurance. Hanoi’s chaotic traffic, where personal space is nonexistent, quickly taught us the importance of staying alert. Sơn Tây, a charming village, offered a welcome pause, while Hoa Binh’s hills and valleys delivered breathtaking views and challenging trails.

The toughest part of the ride was navigating the dirt roads of Hoa Binh, where cliffs seemed to appear out of nowhere. None of us were seasoned trail riders, so there were plenty of falls—except for Jerold, who made sure we all knew he stayed upright the entire time. The ride back into Hanoi, with its relentless traffic, was the final test of our resolve. Despite the soreness and fatigue, the experience became a core memory.

Riding beside the Red River and through Hoa Binh’s countryside brought to mind a line from The Motorcycle Diaries: “How is it possible to feel nostalgia for a world I never knew?” It perfectly captured the bittersweet beauty of exploring new landscapes.
Our bikes of choice for this adventure were Honda CRF models—rugged machines built to handle both mountain trails and city streets. They carried us through every challenge, bringing us home with nothing more than sore muscles and unforgettable stories.

Camaraderie and JCI Connection

Riding together forged bonds that go beyond brotherhood—we became Brothers-in-Dirt. From helping each other pick up fallen bikes to enduring long hours on unfamiliar roads, we shared an experience that will stay with us forever. In motorcycle culture, roles like Spear, Marshal, and Sweeper ensure everyone’s safety, reinforcing the importance of looking out for one another. We encouraged each other, shared laughs, and, of course, never missed a chance to capture those candid roadside moments.

This camaraderie reflects the core of JCI brotherhood—caring for one another while embracing adventure and leadership. The trails may have tested our skills, but the shared experience strengthened our bonds.

What’s Next…

This trip reinforced something I’ve always believed: First who, then what. The right company makes all the difference. When you have the right people beside you, any road—no matter how rough—becomes an adventure worth taking.

For anyone considering a motorbike trip in Vietnam, here are a few things to keep in mind:

1. Find the right group. The right company turns a good trip into an unforgettable one.
2. Prepare. Get comfortable with riding before tackling unfamiliar terrain.
3. Book with a reliable tour operator. Local expertise goes a long way.
4. Plan—but leave room for spontaneity. Sometimes, the best moments happen off-route.
5. Be present. Don’t just ride through the landscape—feel it, take it in, live it.

As for what’s next? Cappadocia is already in the works.

Life is too short to ignore your passions. But always, always prioritize safety. If you’re thinking of riding, start with the Basic Safety Riding Course at the Honda Safety Driving Center. Invest in the right gear and wear it—every ride, every time. And if you’re looking for the ultimate riding experience? Do it with your JCI Manila brothers. The stories you create will stay with you long after the ride is over.

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