Craig Hightower R.I.P.

Craig Hightower — Rest in Peace

By Craig's Girls
(Laurel, Kari, Lisa, Sue, & Laura)

Craig Hightower was more than a motorcycle enthusiast. He had a true passion for riding as evidenced by the mileage summary he kept on his website <http://www.backroadsboogie.com> . Last updated in December of 2006, total miles ridden were 377,392; and that only includes the bikes he owned, not the various magazine test bikes, borrowed bikes, and rented bikes that he had ridden. He was an AFM racer for six years, and one of the most skilled motorcyclists out there. He balanced safety, fun, skill, and excitement.

Craig beams on his Full Moon Ride, July 28, 2007

Craigum's spirit and zest for life and adventure was something most were in awe of. If he wasn't busy working full time for the FAA as a technician supervisor, he was off gallivanting in far away places either by motorcycle, kayak, bicycle, car, or on foot. We all marveled at the frequency that Craig spent taking vacations. "Is Craig on a trip AGAIN?," we all would ask several times a year. If not traveling in Costa Rica or Baja, he might be kayaking the American River, paddling for breast cancer survivors, bicycling for AIDS research and hospice, or attending a benefit dinner for the homeless. Craig was also known to host many BBQs at his house in Alameda or surprise you at home with lots of chocolate, red wine, good stories, and if you were really lucky, homemade turtle brownies. It was that energy, drive, and sense of adventure that made Craig a phenomenon.

One of many Mexico moto trips for Craig

The "Soggy Dog" Reunion Ride, April 2007

He always helped out friends in need, and served as a mentor for many new riders. He encouraged the mechanic in everyone, especially beginners. Craig offered many a friend the opportunity to work in his garage on anything from changing out a clutch or fouled plug, or swapping out a wheel. It was clear that Mr. and Mrs. Hightower raised a thoughtful, kind, respectful man.

Having lost a few motorcycles in a garage fire, Craig's sense of humor shines through after he refurbishes the charred SV650, adding some flame flare to its facelift

The day we learned of the accident, it felt as though a huge hole had opened up in the atmosphere, the universe, our hearts and souls. Overcome with grief and sadness, his girlfriend, Laurel couldn't help but think of the part in a Superman movie where Lois Lane had died and Superman couldn't save her. In agony and anger he shot into the air and spun the world backwards, reversing time and enabling him to bring her back. We all wish we had that power.

I think that Craig would want his death to serve a purpose for other riders. As motorcyclists, we all know there is risk involved, but this is a reminder to us all that it's possible for even the best of us to meet a tragic end.

I believe Craig is on yet another adventure full of endless sweeping curves, rocky roads, flowing water, and steaming hot springs. Ride in peace, my friend.

The East Oakland Moto Bros (EOMB) anchored a plaque
into the crash site wall in tribute to Craig

Postscript: We'd like to express appreciation for the support that many of the local motorcycle clubs have given to Craig's family, friends, and to the SF Northstars during this time. Thank you to the Motogirlies, East Bay Dinner Group, EOMB, OMC, and SFMC, among others.

We just KNOW he's up there making fun of us!