FIRST PERSON/OPINION: Via e-mail: Hello all, As some of you know, but some don’t, I have decided to leave the direct employment of Aprilia USA for personal reasons. My last day was May 31. I will still be doing some consulting work for the company that has been such a huge part of my life for over the past six years. I cannot begin to express the appreciation I have for the company to trust me to do the work that I did. My direct Managers of the past, Bill Stone and Michael Orr gave me considerable leash to do whatever it is that I do. I am sure at times, even I did not know what I did – but I know I sold bikes. The trust, teamwork, and admiration I have for my co-workers past and present immeasurable. I am emotional when I think of the good time we have had as a group, despite the challenges we faced. I thank those who worked with and for me – so many names. I have had some enviable times – dinners with motorcycle celebrities, rides with new friends, and laughs with everyone. Cathy, Marc, Ron, Bill, Dennis, Andrew, Richard, Mason, Steve, and Michael – you guys are the best. I am and always will be a huge fan of the Aprilia products. I am and always will be a bigger fan of all things motorcycling. The past six years have exposed me to so many types of machines that even with seven bikes, I still need a trials bike, streamliner, touring bike, and comfy cruiser. I might even need a bobber these days. This is truly an awesome industry, filled with equally inspirational people, at a time of stunning technological change. Motorcycling is in my blood. The people associated are in my heart. I know I will see each of you again some time, and I especially look forward to seeing more of my family as I re-start my freelance career. Thanks to the magic of the Internet – a mobile workplace is my reality. Thanks to high gas prices, so is looking for gigs! If you need to get in touch – please feel free to call my cell at (512) 630-3960 or better yet shoot an email to [email protected]. It is with a heavy heart that I leave Aprilia – I but it is time for new challenges and time to assess what is important for my family, my friends and myself. Take care everybody – ride safe, ride fast, and ride often. I’ll see you down the road – Ciao for now. Robert Pandya Editorial Note: Pandya most recently served in the position of Product Manager Aprilia USA Off-road, and was a driving force behind Aprilia USA’s new Supermoto race team. Prior to that, Pandya served as the Public Relations Manager for Aprilia USA.