Bike Forums - Returning to riding a bicycle

I am a person who has had an interest in cycling since the early 70's. I have a small shop with some machinery and hand tools. I work with different metals as an artist. At one time, I worked for the Mich. Dept. of Transportation (10 yrs),so I have a continued interest in transportation,expressways, highways, bicycle tour routes and so forth. I hope to return to riding my bike more often, and to experience bicycle camping, touring etc. To earn a living, currently I am a professional truck driver (12 years plus) CDL "A" with an endorsement. I have seen a lot of good things, as well as some bad things, that have happened to travelers. Whether they were on 2,4,6 or 18 wheels. Every truck driver is not tattooed,or rude, just as every "biker" does not wear leather. I do not enjoy using a diesel engine, and I look forward to better uses of our resources, such as natural gas. Mutual respect, courtesy, and safety are important whether you are on an interstate, a 2 lane road or a bike trail. Right now, I am reading as much as I can about cycling. If and when I have anything of use to share with my fellow "bikers" I will do so at that time. I am going to try the 24 hour overnight trip. I think cycling is a great way to rediscover how nice and quiet riding a bicycle along a county back road can be.