 sj |
||
|
||
BS: So how many of you are bikers?
|
|
|
Subject: So how many of you are bikers? From: Liz the Squeak Date: 10 Jun 01 - 05:10 AM How many of you 'Catters are bikers then? I was greasy biker chick when I was 17 (about 20 years ago - my present instructor was yet to be born....), rode a Suzuki 500 then, not legally, but fast.... and have been encouraged (by rising travel costs and death of car) to relearn how to ride again. I have my theory test next Tuesday 12th (please don't ask me about stopping distances.....) and the Compulsory Bike training in the first week of July. I'm totally hooked again....!! LTS |
|
Subject: RE: BS: So how many of you are bikers? From: Jon Freeman Date: 10 Jun 01 - 05:30 AM I've not ridden one in years but I used to enjoy it and covered a few thousand miles. One of my favourite runs used to be from Llandudno to St Davids and back on a Sunday. The biggest bike I ever owned was a Honda 250 (before the change in the law for engine size without passing your test) but I have ridden bigger bikes and even driven a trike a few times. Good luck with the test. Jon |
|
Subject: RE: BS: So how many of you are bikers? From: lady penelope Date: 10 Jun 01 - 05:47 AM Good Luck Liz! Personally I'm bund by the thrill of lycra! Push them pedals.... TTFN M'Lady P. |
|
Subject: RE: BS: So how many of you are bikers? From: catspaw49 Date: 10 Jun 01 - 06:21 AM Over the years, I've put about half a million miles on bikes, starting in 1964. There were no separate license laws and all you needed were temps, available to 15 year olds. I had my money saved and went right out and bought a BSA 250 Starfire which I hid from my parents for several months. Inevitably, they found out and there was one helluva' blow-up! My Dad had the best line...."Boy, I'd just as soon you bought yourself a coffin." The toothpaste was out of the tube though and they gave up. Over the next five years I traded bikes about every 6-8 months and rode as much year around as I could. I had a series of Brit bikes including Lightnings and Bonnevilles and one Commando. I hated Harleys even then and in big bore bikes, there wasn't much option so I put up with the oil leaks, vibrations, and the perverse elctrical systems of the evil Dr. Lucas ("Joe Lucas say, Don't go out after dark") until 1970, the second year of the Honda 750. Even then I opted for a Kawasaki 750 first (a straightline rocket of the first order) before buying the superb Honda. It had really taken the cycling world by storm and I rode it til '73 when the Kawasaki 903 Z-1 came out and I bought the first one in the city. This was a really fine machine, fast, quick, and a good handler and we were mates for many years. Since then, I've had several others including a blazingly fast and very fine Suzuki 1100. I haven't bought a new bike in many years being very satisfied with the one I currently own, a Honda Sabre 1100. It is a beautifully refined version of the classic all-round sport bike, capable of covering miles at an alarming rate while also easy to hop on for a quick ride to the store. The Sabre always reminded me of a great combination of refined high society lady and two dollar whore. Its a great bike. I also got into dirt riding in the early 70's and had a couple of good enduro machines (Penton), a motocrosser (Honda Elsinore), and a trials bike (Bultaco Sherpa T). After breaking my collarbone twice and racking up a few other injuries and broken bones, I quit dirt riding. actually, I moved and dirt riding had been a group sport thing with me and I wasn't that interested anymore without my friends. So Liz, yeah.....I'm a biker, although the past few years I've ridden very little. I'm hoping that might change after this month. There is a certain feeling of freedom and control you get on a motorcycle that's not like anything else and blasting down a country road on a warm summer night is a high I still enjoy. Hope you enjoy it as much as I have. Spaw |
|
Subject: RE: BS: So how many of you are bikers? From: mooman Date: 10 Jun 01 - 06:28 AM Yes as you already know Liz! Black and chrome Virago V-twin which I use most days! The other days I cycle to work for the much-needed exercise! I missed you at the Yorkshire gathering and you HAD PROMISED to turn up in leather for me ("...black leather and red hair, my favourite colour scheme..." (Richard Thompson))!!! mooman |
|
Subject: RE: BS: So how many of you are bikers? From: MudGuard Date: 10 Jun 01 - 08:05 AM What a disappointment - I thought this thread was about bikers, but it is only about motor-bikers... |
|
Subject: RE: BS: So how many of you are bikers? From: Banjer Date: 10 Jun 01 - 08:26 AM I used to ride..Hondas...first the dirt bikes. had a HOnda CL125 and a CL250, both four stroke machines. Never did like the twostroke bikes. Then I had a Honda CL450 and after that one was knocked out from under me by one of our senior citizens I got CB450. I rode for about 15 years. I decided that I had cheated lady Luck long enough and the average was stacking against me, so I sold all four bikes. I now ride either my 5 speed or the 18 speed pedal power machines for the excercise my doctor wants me to have. If I lived someplace like our wide open western states I would probably have another motorcycle, but in our part of the country where (in my opinion) drivers license tests can be taken in Braille I just do not feel ssafe anymore! |
|
Subject: RE: BS: So how many of you are bikers? From: MarkS Date: 10 Jun 01 - 09:12 AM Not a biker, but I do drag race cars from time to time. Does this count as a motorsport enthusiasm? Mark |
|
Subject: RE: BS: So how many of you are bikers? From: Eric the Viking Date: 10 Jun 01 - 10:00 AM Hey Mudguard, you know we cycle tour on bicycles. But I also have a Yamaha XS750 with a big chair(outfit). Over the years I've had; Ariel Arrow, Ariel Arrow supersport Triumph Bonneville, Yamaha XS 250, Yam XS400. I'm qualified as a trials riding instructer. I teach motorcycle riding on and off road skills to my kids at school, both in school and at a training centre.Ridden outfits. Was Yam club area rep, Motorcycle action group member, Famous last words MCC member and a long time ago, many of my friends down south were in the H.A. UK.I guess that's a reasonable pedigree-OOh when I was younger (much and many years ago), went down the swnaley bypass tons, did the ton up to Birmingham on the new M1 !! and had many exciting moments at Brighton, Margate, Box hill, the salt box cafe,The mad mile at Battersea. Regularly at the I o M TT etc.Squires coffee bar. Most of the big bikers parties and raves. MAG farmyard, etc. KENT. Rock and Blues. Liz, we probably passed each other or were in the same spot at sometime.Always wanted to do the Elephant run. never got round to it. Ride free Eric |
|
Subject: RE: BS: So how many of you are bikers? From: Homeless Date: 10 Jun 01 - 10:40 AM Like 'Spaw, the number of miles that I've ridden with a bike under my ass number in the hundreds of thousands. And I had the requisite long hair, beard, tattoos, and attitude to go with the bikes. My first bike was a stripped '76 Bonneville with 6 over forks. I rode that for many years, and throughout my college career it was the only vehicle I owned. There were many winters I'd ride up decked in leather from top to toe and have to peel off the layer of ice that had frozen over my jacket as I was riding. And I used to use the old rope-around-the-wheels trick in order to ride in the snow. Then I was given a fully dressed '78 Suzuki 750. While I ownded a car during those years, I didn't drive it much. Only once snow had hit the ground until spring thaw. I made many cross country trips on that thing. And while it did have more get up and go, that monotonous bumblebee hum was just to annoying for me to enjoy the ride.
So my next bike was a '66 Harley XLCH. Bought in Atlanta, GA, in April, and it snowed the day I went to pick it up. This one was chopped and had 6 over forks too. I don't know why, but I find stretched tubes make the bike so much easier to handle. But one ride on that creature and I was in love. If you don't want to support a massage therapist, buy an old sporty. Ride that baby 20 miles and it will work all the knots out of your back and shoulders. I even once had a Hell's Angel talking to me at a party and he saluted me for still riding "the last of the shakers." |
|
Subject: RE: BS: So how many of you are bikers? From: harpgirl Date: 10 Jun 01 - 11:19 AM ...a period in my life which is just a dim memory, but I rode Kawasakis, both dirt bikes and a 750. Maybe I'll send catspaw49 pictures of me in leathers when I was twenty to go with the Folk Festival tee shirt...nah, we want to keep him around as long as possible...hg |
|
Subject: RE: BS: So how many of you are bikers? From: Justa Picker Date: 10 Jun 01 - 12:01 PM Years ago, I was into bikes, my last one being a Kawasaki 1300 with shaft drive (when shaft drive first came out). I eventually gave it up after one too many close scrapes with vehicles on the road who paid no attention nor treated me as another vehicle on the road. In the end I decided I wanted to keep my legs. I also figured if I blew a rear tire in a car at 70 miles an hour, I'd get to live and just have to pull over to change that tire. |
|
Subject: RE: BS: So how many of you are bikers? From: Clinton Hammond Date: 10 Jun 01 - 12:16 PM I'm a biker in spirit... and maybe one day I'll make it a reality... ;-) |
|
Subject: RE: BS: So how many of you are bikers? From: Gervase Date: 10 Jun 01 - 12:58 PM Hah Liz - so you've succumbed. Ye're doomed, d'ye hear! Doomed to pick insects out of the back of your throat and to have your farts rise up to meet you whenever you unzip your leathers... Like most old farts who've just passed 40, I'm getting a yearning for a motorbike. Must resist it. Must resi... Used to do a heck of a lot of cycling in my younger days, though. I didn't learn to drive until I was 25, so two wheels was the only way of getting around. For some time I'd go from Lowestoft to Norwich and back ever day, and would think nothing of a 50-mile run. Then some thieving evil bastard stole my hand-built bespoke Mercian (with its 40-spoke Campagnolo rear hub, Brooks copper-rivetted saddle and double-butted 531 everything. God, sad anorak that I am...) and I reluctantly turned to four wheels. |
|
Subject: RE: BS: So how many of you are bikers? From: wildlone Date: 10 Jun 01 - 03:46 PM I started riding at 16,33 years ago and have got the BMW 650 single at the moment. I bought it a tear ago last march with 5000 miles on the clock and have added 30,000 since. Alot of those miles have been done with Mother on pillion. Not bad for an old dear who had her 75th birthday last month. Liz, the best way to see Dorset is on a bike I have now been to every town and village in Dorset and I am now exploring Somerset. Ride safe, dave |
|
Subject: RE: BS: So how many of you are bikers? From: wildlone Date: 10 Jun 01 - 03:49 PM That should be YEAR. I will have to clean this key board one day. But the sun is just going down aand you can see great sunsets up on bullbarrow. dave |
|
Subject: RE: BS: So how many of you are bikers? From: Rollo Date: 10 Jun 01 - 04:50 PM I had a bycicle once, but it broke due my enormous weight. Now I am pedestrian. |
|
Subject: RE: BS: So how many of you are bikers? From: Sorcha Date: 10 Jun 01 - 04:56 PM One of the EastCoast a's is a biker nut--can't remember if it's annamil or animaterra. Mr. and Bubba both have Harleys. Mr.s' is a 1980 FLT with a brand new royal blue paint job. Bubbas' is a '96 (I think) Sportster; maroon with a custom paint job--his backpiece tatoo is copied onto the gas tank and fenders. Looks cool. I hate to ride. Don't like bugs, wind, sunburn, etc. |
|
Subject: RE: BS: So how many of you are bikers? From: little john cameron Date: 10 Jun 01 - 05:25 PM Ah the thing that makes life worthwhile.94 c.u.--1540 c.c. tae you brits.I just got back from a trip around the bay.Brilliant,and i am only 57. http://lw7fd.law7.hotmail.msn.com/cgi-bin/getmsg?curmbox=F000000001&a=98af667f5b132c9a65ffb72ab2cc3e50&msg=MSG989596086.30&start=246422&len=62725&msgread=1&mfs=403 C'mon Pat let's go.A big aorta buster. john |
|
Subject: RE: BS: So how many of you are bikers? From: Gaz Date: 10 Jun 01 - 06:37 PM Hi Liz, Good luck with the test. Mine's the usual story of having bikes in my 'youf' (Triumph Tiger Cub at the innocent age of 16, then a 500 Norton ES2 followed by 500 Triumph T100A). Then the marriage came along .... So a few years ago, with the divorce looming, I got back into bikes again. Didn't want to kill myself on the first bend, so got a little Suzuki GSX250 to ease myself back into it. Currently I have a Yamaha 600 Divvy, which is nice but not terribly exciting. Wouldn't mind a Fazer or a Honda VFR, but finances are a bit stretched at the moment! Going to the Clecky FF next month, staying with my best mate Eric the Viking. So maybe see you there, or at Fylde in September? Happy riding, Gaz. |
|
Subject: RE: BS: So how many of you are bikers? From: vectis Date: 10 Jun 01 - 06:54 PM Best of luck Liz. I started off wiv a lickle Honda sloped. Graduated to a Honda 125 then a Suzuki 500. My last bike was a Moto Guzzi 850 T3. My husband wrote it off and I havn't had the wherewithal to replace it. One day... Oh! Yes! One day... I'll sell him and buy a new bike. YESSSSSS!! |
|
Subject: RE: BS: So how many of you are bikers? From: Liz the Squeak Date: 10 Jun 01 - 07:08 PM Eric - you aren't coming down to the Kent Bike show (Paddock Wood) next weekend are you?? If so, see you there..... hopefully! I used to ride a bicycle too - big matt black and chrome thingy, circa 1945. Good wide seat.... just like mine own. Lycra never did it for me though.... And I don't have red hair, that's the fair Lady P you need for that. I do have a thing about leather though..... I like the look of the Fazer, if only it didn't come in that vile shade of Kawasaki green. I really want a Suzuki Bandit, they come in a range of sizes but I don't think they go as low as 125. Besides, I couldn't afford one yet..... have to do in family member for the insurance! Have friend who is lusting after a Yamaha FJR1300, very nice, took me for a test drive on it, back end is spongy but moves like natural fertilizer off a digging implement..... LTS |
|
Subject: RE: BS: So how many of you are bikers? From: Jon Freeman Date: 10 Jun 01 - 10:07 PM Now here's something to upset the bikers... The first "bike" I owned (and learned to ride on) was a Lambretta LD150 scooter (used to ride it round fields). My first motorbike, again before I was old enough to ride on the roads was a James - don't know the model but it had the Villiers (?sp) 200 engine (?6E). Jon |
|
Subject: RE: BS: So how many of you are bikers? From: Eric the Viking Date: 11 Jun 01 - 01:52 PM Grief Jon-I nearly didn't talk to you ever again-LAMBRETTA!! How could you say such things ???? I suppose that's all over now. Those little James bikes, I always thought them a bit unreliable, now a little Grieves was a better prospect. Sorry Liz, won't be at Kent. Playing at Skip's session next weekend. However will be at the CTC York Rally the weekend after next. Cycling up with trailer and tent. Gaz didn't tell you he had his bike done up as in easy rider did he...... Ride free Eric |
|
Subject: RE: BS: So how many of you are bikers? From: gnu Date: 11 Jun 01 - 04:43 PM KH-500, twenty-five years ago. Exciting in a straight line. Not so good handling. Dumped it at about 125 kph and gave it up shortly thereafter in favour of a Bug. But the real thrill was yet to come. Yeah, I'm still a biker. Bought a Honda 200ME, three wheeler, in 1983 and I've still got it, with original rubber. I've been eight feet in the air at fifty miles an hour, hanging on to the handle bars for dear life, sailing like "superman" - another nickname of mine, for just that reason - but I've calmed down (immediate threat of death will do that) and usually roll through the woods at about five miles an hour, enjoying the flora and fauna. My newest Kent County nicknames are "second gear" and "surfer dude"... I'll let you picture that last one ! It's the ultimate challenge in three wheeling.... or should that be boating ? Guess that's not what you meant by "biker", but it works for me. |
|
Subject: RE: BS: So how many of you are bikers? From: Peter K (Fionn) Date: 11 Jun 01 - 05:07 PM vectis, I never like to hear about a Guzzi going down the road. I had a T3 myself for some years. An effortless, comfy thing to ride, where haste and racing were not the top priorities - but what a disappointment after the 850T, and nothing like the power and performance that many claimed for it. Always liked the Guzzi shaft drive though. Got rid of an Egli-Vincent a year or two ago and haven't got anything but pushbike wheels these days. Keep wondering whether to do something about it, but my eyesight isn't great, so maybe not. Spaw & co, I take my hat off to you, because biking in the US seems to be quite a big statement, unlike in Europe, where it's widely accepted without a thought. The pushbike, if anyone's interested, is a Trek 850 with 4,700 miles on the clock since 1996 (previously a Moulton AM7 until it was nicked and I got rich from the claim). I've done quite a few long-distance pedalling expeditions, including Lands End to John O'Groats in 1990. Mind how you go! |
|
Subject: RE: BS: So how many of you are bikers? From: Liz the Squeak Date: 11 Jun 01 - 05:13 PM Hey Gnu - I know a couple of people who'd love to have a play with that trike..... You aren't going to be at the Kent bike show are you?? LTS Jon, I'm still in two minds whether I'm talking to you. At least it wasn't a foreign wasp.... |
|
Subject: RE: BS: So how many of you are bikers? From: Lonesome EJ Date: 11 Jun 01 - 05:21 PM Started on a Yamaha Enduro 250 back in '72 which I bought in mint condition, then proceeded to bend the handlebars, brakelever, fender, etc riding offroad. Had a friend who was a pro Enduro Rider, and through him got to experience the big offroad racers of the 70s...CZ, Maico, Bultaco. These dominated the Enduro circuit until the Japanese started supplying pit crews for their riders. Gave up riding until the midlife crisis struck about '93, when I bought a Yamaha Virago V-twin 750, which is one sleek machine. There's nothing like desert riding in my opinion...just you and the cactus and creosote bushes for miles and miles. Happy cruising to all of y'all, and watch out for the idiots! |
|
Subject: RE: BS: So how many of you are bikers? From: Liz the Squeak Date: 12 Jun 01 - 02:29 AM Well, here we go. Theory test in 2 hours. Am I nervous? What is that smell??!! AAAARRRRGGGHHHH!! And THEN comes the actual relearning how to ride the darned things..... ah well, a girl can dream. At least I have my own lid now so if any of you Virago owners want to drop by one weekend.......? LTS |
|
Subject: RE: BS: So how many of you are bikers? From: Owlkat Date: 12 Jun 01 - 04:06 AM My first ride was a mint condition 84 Honda twin 250. Now I'm working on refurbishing a beat-up '82 650 Nighthawk. Have to hurry it up though. The riding season in the Yukon is only about three or four months at best. Riding is more than fun. What can I say? |
|
Subject: RE: BS: So how many of you are bikers? From: Terry K Date: 12 Jun 01 - 08:05 AM Got my first bike when I was 11. It was a 1930 model 98cc Coventry Eagle and it cost £1 - and before you suggest it, NO, I didn't get it brand new! Then I had a 250cc two stroke, single cylinder, twin exhaust (really) Excelsior 1935 model which was more expensive at £3.10.0d. Both of these were only used in our fairly lage garden. Like many, at 16 I graduated to the 197cc James Captain which was my first road bike. My last one was a Honda 350cc twin "Street Scrambler" which I had in Australia in the 60s. Trouble there was the motorists there seemed to have it in for anyone on a bike so it was tough going. Still resisting getting a Harley or something - didn't somebody say there's a new Indian being produced? I'd get one from the States but apparently they're all left hand drive. Cheers, Terry |
|
Subject: RE: BS: So how many of you are bikers? From: Jon Freeman Date: 12 Jun 01 - 08:18 AM Eric, a friend of mine got a Greeves Griffon 250 on the day I was due to take an O Level music exam - needless to say, I didn't turn up for the exam. Jon |
|
Subject: RE: BS: So how many of you are bikers? From: gnu Date: 12 Jun 01 - 08:48 AM LTS... that's Kent County, New Brunswick, Canada. The nearest they have to a bike show, far as I know, is when a bunch get together at a gravel pit to see who can come closest to death on the pit walls. I definitely don't do that any more. Them suckers are heavy when they're on top of you and if your feet come off the footrests when you flip over, there's no telling what's gonna happen. Nope, I only "play" in shallow water, no more than than I can jump off and "push" in. |
|
Subject: RE: BS: So how many of you are bikers? From: Steve Parkes Date: 12 Jun 01 - 09:09 AM When I was a little lad of 18 or so I worked for a time at Norton-Villiers-Triumph in Wolverhampton--does that count? I didn't make any bikes, but I learned how to grind the head off a match on a grindstone without setting fire to it, and how to sharpen a brazing rod and throw it into the ceiling just hard enough so it would drop out when somebody slammed the door--accomplishments which have served me well in my working and social life in the years since. I also learned what happens when some idiot (not me!) puts a 24" face-plate on a lathe and starts it up without locking it up first. That was fun: when it got up a bit of speed, it dropped off the shaft and onto the floor, rolled all down the length of the apprentice shop, through the double doors, across the landing, through the next double doors and into the shop next door; from the exited shouts I think they had a lot of fun with it in there! All the apprentices were bike-mad, but none of them could afford one. They were all "foot-greasers"--all the leathers and a bus-pass. My grandad was a deepatch rider in the ARP in the war. He rode a chrome-plated Harley (painted olive green) that had once belonged to some Indian worthy. It didn't like cornering very much, and he often had to jump off while it ran into a handy ditch or field. I remember in the 50s, before he bought a car (a Reliant 3-wheeler), he had an Arial square-4, with a radiator and a hand-brake, which were almost unheard of in those days. Dad did a bit of speedway riding before he married Mom (and she sang with a band a few times before she married him). He used to have a BSA when I was very small, but swapped it for a shaft-drive Sunbeam with a Swallow sidecar so he could transport the three of us at once. When my bro came along, he got an A30 instead. I remember in 1957, we went overnight to Cornwall for a holiday, about two hundred miles. Mom and Auntie Mu and I went by train, but Dad took the luggage in the sidecar; and Uncle Al did the journey on he BSA Bantam, which must have been an experience! Much as I've been tempted over the years, I've never quite got around to a motorbike. I've got a push-bike, does that count, as well? Steve |
|
Subject: RE: BS: So how many of you are bikers? From: Liz the Squeak Date: 12 Jun 01 - 03:50 PM Oh, I passed the theory... Theoretically I'm safe enough to be on the roads..... Roll on July!!! LTS |
|
Subject: RE: BS: So how many of you are bikers? From: NH Dave Date: 12 Jun 01 - 04:35 PM I started out riding motorcycles on a '65 BMW, R-50, the slow 500 cc machine, and rode it until I was posted to England. Custome problems kept me from riding it much while I was there, so I had a Triumph Saint, ex-police bike copy of a Bonneville with only one carb. Having gotten used to riding the Beemer, with its solid frame, the flex in the Triumph frame put me off riding for a while until a local fellow offered a Honda Goldwing at a price too good to turn down. Seems he's been playing silly buggers with it one night, and gone adrift; so his dad, who owned the local Honda agency, put it back into shape and gave him three weeks to come up with the cost of repairs, or sell the bike. I rode that bike for about four more years, until I was sent to Alaska, and then up here in New Hampshire, where I sold it. Currently I am looking at some older Honda CX 500s, either the full dressed GL500, or perhaps one of the less expensive ones with a fairing and travel boxes. Dave |
|
Subject: RE: BS: So how many of you are bikers? From: Walking Eagle Date: 12 Jun 01 - 04:47 PM I've done riding on both bicycles and motor bikes. Both have their advantages. The worst thing about taking a motor bike somewhere is finding out that there is not a level place to park it. Bugs in your face? Get a full windshield fairing or a full face helmet or just be comtent knowing that MOST bugs are not poisionous and will add much needed protein to your diet! As for bicycles, I use a bike on campus where I work. Saves walking miles and I just leave it in the library after work. I had a BMW R100 RT and liked it. A devil of a thing to pull up on it's center stand for a woman though. Heavy! As anything with 1000ccs would be. I've got my eye on those Hondas that you don't have to 'boot' to change gears. I still like BMWs best though. There used to be a T-shirt that said 'Real BMWs have TWO wheels.' Can't agree more! Happy trails and ride safe! |
|
Subject: RE: BS: So how many of you are bikers? From: Sourdough Date: 13 Jun 01 - 12:50 AM Walking Eagle: I was in a BMW shop in Utica, NY a couple of weeks ago. One of the mechanics was wearing a T-shirt that said, "I didn't know there were BMW cars until I passed one." I just got back from a cross US round trip on my BMW. Rather than reposting the story, I'll say that anyone intersted can read a bit about it in the thread with the descriptive name, "My 8080 mile motorcycle trip" Liz: Congratulations! Sourdough
|
|
Subject: RE: BS: So how many of you are bikers? From: mooman Date: 13 Jun 01 - 03:37 AM Well done Liz! I'll see you in the leathers with the Virago one of these days! Just remember the old maxim: "There are old bikers and there are bold bikers but there are no old, bold bikers!" mooman |
|
Subject: RE: BS: So how many of you are bikers? From: alison Date: 13 Jun 01 - 03:59 AM Well done Liz...... I'm a mountain biker.. does that count? and I've been know to chase the kids on their bikes on one of those scooter things..... slainte alison |
|
Subject: RE: BS: So how many of you are bikers? From: John J Date: 13 Jun 01 - 07:39 AM Good luck Liz! I used to ride motorcycles, but not any more. A buddy has just bought an old GS750.....I'm tempted. I've owned all sorts: Triumph twins, BSA singles & twins, Hondas, MZs (loads of them, wonderful machines. Been all round Europe on them) BMW boxers, the list could go on and on and.... Eric: did you used to do rallies? When I saw you at the Jug your face was vaguely familiar. I may see you at York Rally, fancy meeting up for a sing / load of beer? John |
|
Subject: RE: BS: So how many of you are bikers? From: Steve Parkes Date: 13 Jun 01 - 08:31 AM Just let us know when your'e in our area, Liz, OK? Then we can stay inddors and keep death off the roads!, Steve |
|
Subject: RE: BS: So how many of you are bikers? From: Bill D Date: 13 Jun 01 - 11:23 AM I had two friends who rode bikes....one had a van turn in front of him, slid under it...serious brain injury and almost died...changed his entire personality..*sigh* The other fellow had several machines, including a Harley Sportster that he had modified to keep it just 'barely' street legal (made extra $$$ in illegal drag races).....he did crazy things like going out and jumping ditches and hills and racing up & down ramps in deserted parking garages...Figured he'd do himself in on some wild stunt, but no----he was riding home from work one night...stopped at a stop sign, and a truck ran over him from the rear. BOOM!... I do see the lure and freedom and adreneline rush, but...... You folks who DO ride, please take care, two wheels have their advantages, but hazards abound..... |
|
Subject: RE: BS: So how many of you are bikers? From: catspaw49 Date: 13 Jun 01 - 11:57 AM As a sailor, there is the old joke that there are two types of small sailboats........Ones that have been on their sides and ones that are about to. With road riders it's also true that there are two types......Ones that have been down and ones that will be. Riding defensively is a must, but even then the odd thing happens and you're in the grinder. I am no longer as "bold" as I once was, but even now friends tell me that I ride too aggressively. If you don't ride, there is no way of explaining the mindset that takes over when you straddle a bike. I appreciate the concern that people have for bikers but if you love the things, they are alomost unexplainable in their power to take you somewhere else, both in distance and mind. A quick proficiency run on a summer's eve can clear the cobwebs, anxieties, and troubles that are bothering you and let you attack them with a new mindset. The same is true for me of a sail on a day with a fresh breeze and conditions just slightly above the capabilities of the boat and yourself. I don't know why this is true for some of us and not others. It has nothing to do with a death wish or a desire to injure ourselves. It has everything to do with the ability to focus and become so singleminded in the doing that all other thoughts are washed away. And yet I know many folks with minds far more facile and multi-leveled/tasked than mine who do quite well without all this silliness. For me it seems a "need" as strong as any. Spaw |
|
Subject: RE: BS: So how many of you are bikers? From: Eric the Viking Date: 13 Jun 01 - 12:35 PM Quite right, Richard, very few old bold bikers! there are though some of us who were pretty stupid and survived to become "sensible-ish"!!! Many of my riends died on their machines. Kinda slows you up a bit, but then so does life-still amnaged to flick myself off the peddle cycle in Holland last year racing my son at 26mph, broke 2 ribs, split knee and elbow badly. Ddin't go to hospital, coughed up blood-a little, wore my wife's "always or whatever with wings for bandages !!!!! till did another 4 weeks cycling and over 400 miles.(Bleeding hurt!) John- I am on a lightweight pitch with Mrs woman and 2 rats- all cyclists. at York next weekend, will post number when I get it out of the envelope. Doubt I'll take a guitar though.But will be pleased to see you. I think I,m number near the 40's. you can't miss the tent. It's quite big, OUTWELL, there will be 4 bikes. A Blue Dawes Kalahari-post-the mrs, A multi coloured Diamond back with flash paint job, a green Emmelle and a Raliegh-brownish (little girls bike) Cheers. Eric |
|
Subject: RE: BS: So how many of you are bikers? From: Eric the Viking Date: 13 Jun 01 - 12:37 PM Excuse me- I think my keyboard or the brain cell is playing up. Missed out a lot of letters just then. |
|
Subject: RE: BS: So how many of you are bikers? From: Homeless Date: 13 Jun 01 - 01:39 PM I'll throw another story in. It's kind of scary, but possibly also telling of the mindset. I was on a solo, straight-thru ride from Chicago to Charleston, SC - about 900 miles, or 16 hours, depending on how you want to measure it. Toward the end of run the scenery gets pretty boring. Nothing but pine trees right up next to the highway, exits 15-20 miles apart, and not another vehicle in sight. I'd been riding since before dawn, and it was hitting sundown about the time I was going thru the boring stretch. I'd noticed an exit I was passing and figured out in my head the mileage left to go - about 40 more miles. A few seconds later I looked up and was 2 miles from my destination.
I was still in my lane, going the same speed, but had lost about 35 minutes of time. Was I asleep at the bars? "In the Zone"? Lost in thought? I don't know, but I do know that I'm comfortable enough on a bike for my body to go on automatic and still get me thru safely.
A car is something you fight and manipulate - press this pedal to change speed, move this wheel to turn. Go around a corner fast and you have to fight to keep your seat. Roll up the windows and you are isolated from the world. |
|
Subject: RE: BS: So how many of you are bikers? From: Walking Eagle Date: 13 Jun 01 - 02:07 PM Homeless and all I ride horses as well and get the same feeling. I think that horse/bike and rider become one as we are physically connected to what we are riding. It's not like a bicycle as we have to move our legs to pedal. Also, as everyone knows, we have to fight the brain that says 'counter balance' when we go into a curve on our bikes. We actually defy physics as we lean with our bikes at speed. I agree with the old/bold thing. It applies to riding horses as well. Most other folks think that that bikers, by the fact that we ride motorcycles, are too bold anyway. Scariest thing I've ever seen on a bike? Bikers coming out of a biker bar and mounting up and taking off. You know they didn't dring iced tea in there. One even had a child with him and no helmet on him. We have helmet laws in PA. U.S.A. Happy trails and ride safe. |
|
Subject: RE: BS: So how many of you are bikers? From: Liz the Squeak Date: 13 Jun 01 - 05:40 PM Spaw - you can fail your Compulsory Bike training by not riding offensively here - it's taken as a bad sign when you don't actively move ahead at crossings, roundabouts or junctions..... and they advise a white helmet for safety - can I buy a white helmet? Can I buggery. Just had to stick with a blue one and maybe customise it with a few white dragons here and there.... LTS |
|
Subject: RE: BS: So how many of you are bikers? From: vectis Date: 13 Jun 01 - 06:18 PM Congratulations Liz. I'm glad I passed my test all those years ago and don't have to take the new test. |
|
Subject: RE: BS: So how many of you are bikers? From: Liz the Squeak Date: 13 Jun 01 - 06:24 PM Actually the theory test is quite easy - I whizzed through mine in less than 15 mins, although driving for the last 8 years has helped... first timers might need the whole 40 mins. It's all on computer touch screens and it's mostly common sense. I'm one of these who think everyone should be retested every 5 years. My dad learned to drive before a test was necessary, so just got his license (via the army) and kept on driving. His road knowledge was great, but his attitude and actual on road driving was abysmal. He thought nothing of blocking the centre lane on a motorway doing 45mph, with people overtaking him both left and right. Legally, this is not a problem, but socially it made him a target for road rage long before it was popular. Besides, with all the changes in legislation and roadsigns, it would do everyone good to revise a little - I asked 5 drivers what a PUFFIN crossing was, and none of them knew! They didn't know what a TOUCAN crossing was either. LTS |
|
Subject: RE: BS: So how many of you are bikers? From: Biskit Date: 13 Jun 01 - 09:40 PM I've had,Bonnevilles,trophy models,and Tigers, had a Snortin' Norton (bighorn), hada "48" panhead, (the first year they made'em),a 1950 Hydra-Glide,a 1986 v-65 Magna, which brings me to the present 1997 Heritage Softail Classic. There was and is somethin' to love about all of 'em. BUT PLEASE Darlin' be careful xpect the other guy to screw up right in front of you,9 times outta 10 they won't let ya down. Can't wait t' see ya in leather! Love Biskit |
|
Subject: RE: BS: So how many of you are bikers? From: catspaw49 Date: 13 Jun 01 - 09:52 PM Congrats on the test Liz my girl and may the next go as well! Riding defensively here means no more thantrying to watch everything and anticipate the automobiles and trucks...and try to be seen! In that respect it can also be considered riding offensively. Bikes are hard to see and even with the best of precautions.............. Almost 30 years ago now, my friend and sailing partner, also an avid biker, was riding home from work. He had his headlight on and was wearing a flashy and bright snowsuit, very handy in the cool months. A block away he saw a VW with the left turn signal on. The driver didn't move and when Bill was only yards away she turned in front of him. He wound up with a broken knee and cracked vertabae in his neck after flying over the Volkswagen. She claimed she never saw him. Spaw |
|
Subject: RE: BS: So how many of you are bikers? From: WyoWoman Date: 13 Jun 01 - 10:28 PM Well, Liz, congrats to a woman after my own heart. I'm a bicyclist and have just finished a seminar for Women Who Think They Might Someday Want to Own and Drive Their Own Motorcycles or something like that. I'm still teetering on whether or not I actually want to/think I could drive one, but I love ridin' em. My Squeeze, John, and I are saving to buy a motorcycle together. He wants to buy a Harley and will, in fact, consider nothing else, but I'm open to other possibilities. As for bicycles, well, I've put thousands of miles on my Bianchi Eros and, to a lesser degree, my Specialized Hard Rock ... (and neither of those terms refers to My Squeeze, John, although either could apply ... ) ww
|
|
Subject: RE: BS: So how many of you are bikers? From: catspaw49 Date: 13 Jun 01 - 10:50 PM WW my love.......You need to reconsider your Squeeze! On the other hand I can see how a Harley's vibration characteristics may be somewhat exciting, but then again it will leave him with numb nuts, so that's a wash. I care about you and I would only say this to someone I love................
BUY A FRIGGIN' DECENT BIKE!!!!
Just my well educated and experienced opinion.Spaw |
|
Subject: RE: BS: So how many of you are bikers? From: WyoWoman Date: 13 Jun 01 - 11:09 PM I'll mention the numb nuts problem to him, but he's the second most stubborn human being I know, so ... He's had six Harleys over the years, so he likes them for some reason. Does it matter that we're looking at soft-tails, which I understand means they'll actually have, like, shocks? Luv, PansyRue |
|
Subject: RE: BS: So how many of you are bikers? From: Liz the Squeak Date: 14 Jun 01 - 04:33 PM There is no point in getting a numb nuts bike unless you are a girlie and can appreciate the vibration!!! Looking forward to my first bike show tomorrow..... Hoooo eeeH!! LTS |
|
Subject: RE: BS: So how many of you are bikers? From: mooman Date: 14 Jun 01 - 05:00 PM Dear Liz, White helmets galore over here. Let me know if you want one and I'll bring one for you next time I'm in London (which is pretty often these days!). Plenty of great advice here and I agree with all of it having survived riding motorbikes of every size and shape for 33 years now. I sort of fancy a Harley but could never afford one at European prices! But what I'd really like is a Vincent. Have to sell the house, wife and daughter too for that though. At least my Virago looks mean enough and has a reasonably non-nut numbing smooth engine! Biskit has it in one! My bike insurer swears that 9 out of 10 accidents are caused by other vehicles, not the biker. So ALWAYS BE PREPARED FOR THE UNEXPECTED! This, in Belgium at least happens at least half a dozen times every ride. The UK is a lot more sensible road-wise on the whole. Take care and enjoy yourself! mooman |
|
Subject: RE: BS: So how many of you are bikers? From: MudGuard Date: 14 Jun 01 - 05:58 PM Uuups, Freudian slip, I just read: At least my Viagra looks mean enough ;-) Time for bed... MudGuard |
|
Subject: RE: BS: So how many of you are bikers? From: Peter K (Fionn) Date: 14 Jun 01 - 06:57 PM ww, is a Harley actually classed as a motorbike in the States then? Go with mooman - there's a guy (or gal) with taste. Spaw, if you've got a Sabre in the shed, how can you find so many hours for Mudcat? Or anything else? |
|
Subject: RE: BS: So how many of you are bikers? From: Sourdough Date: 14 Jun 01 - 07:37 PM I'll put in a good word for BMWs here. I have been riding since I was in college and have always had a BMW once I got my first one. Before that, I had a BSA, an Indian with a lot of Harley parts (tank shifting / suicide clutch and all) and a Vespa. I was still in college when I bought my first BMW, an R-26. I drove it from Spain to Asia Minor - with a passenger and a year's worth of camping equipment for the two of us. THis 250 cc bike performed like a sweatheart. My only problem the entire trip was a flat tire and I put some prett awful gas into that bike. However, I took good care of it with oil changes, oil filter cleanings (yes, cleanings) and other routine maintenance. In Sweden I had the engine disassembled because I expected that there was a lot of carbon buildup due to the bad fuel in places like Yugoslavia and Turkey. THe engine was clean! I eventually got a 600CC machine which was the first one I took across the US, again with two aboard. Tha time, the only problem was a broken luggage rack that I got welded in a small town in Kansas. In my other trips, I have never ever been stranded by my bikes. I have commuted to work with them through Massachusetts winters, riddent hem at 10,00 feet above seal level and to Badwater, the lowest point int he US when the temperature was 110 in the non-existent shade. I'll admit that BMWs are not exciting machines, at least the generation of bikes I am talking about, but they are absolutely wonderful if you want a comfortable, well designed, reliable piece of equipment. A friend of mine who races said dismissively of my BMW passion, "they don't go fast enough to give you a good cold". On the other hand, a friend of mine who rides BMWs told me tha the has a stock line when a brightly painted Ninjoid pulls up alongside him at a stoplight and offers, semi-humorously, to drag him ofr a beer or for five bucks. He says, "I'll race ou but I have something a little more exciting in mind. How about going to Mexico City for $10,000 - leaving immediately?" He knows that his bike is always ready for a long steady haul whereas these high performance and admittedly more exciting bikes need constant care. He has no doubt he would win. Of course he has never found a taker. My bike, an 800cc R-80 RT is 18 years old and now is approaching 100K. A wonderful advantage of an old but reliable bike is that it really does become an old friend. I have had two other BMWs that I oput more than 70K on and several other bikes that I never counted the miles when I sold them. Right around the time I got this bike, I bought my first car so I never had to use it as a commute vehicle which is a good thing for both of us. We have done so many miles together. We know each others foibles and I think we have taken good care of each other except for once when Ilet my attention wander in an intersection and hit the side of a car but we survived even that. It made this last trip across the US without any problems except for a leaking fuel line that was fixed with new hose and some clamps from a local NAPA store. In summary, BMWs are great machines for people who want to get on a bike and ride.
|
|
Subject: RE: BS: So how many of you are bikers? From: WyoWoman Date: 14 Jun 01 - 11:10 PM One of my concerns is just being able to hold one up. I'm a mid-sized woman, with a fair degree of fitness, but I wonder; If I get a bike with enough power to be fun and to be good for road trips, would I be able to hold it up if it got out of balance at a stop or whatever? And are different bikes better than others for that concern? I'm thinking of a cruiser of about 1300 ccs. What do you all think about that? ww |
|
Subject: RE: BS: So how many of you are bikers? From: Sourdough Date: 15 Jun 01 - 12:19 AM I think that a lot of people who ought to know better discuss bikes in terms of ccs. WHat is misleading is that a 250 cc machine can run circles around an 800cc bike if they are designed for different purposes. Another thing that I believe is that bikes are not like cars. You don't go out and buy your dream bike for a couple of reasons. THe first is that ou are going to drop it once or twice and it is going to be knowcked over by cars in parking lots anotehr couple of times until you learn the tricks of avoiding this. Another reason is that ou can't really tell what you want until you ride for a while. I suggest putting 5-1000 miles on a small bike, 250-500ccs until you have developed the reflexes, commitment and knowledge that will keep ou upright and your bike shiny. Most accidents take place in the first few thousand miles. Peoplel earn the mechanics of ridings and are seduced by the sensual excitement of riding. THey think that they have learned ot ride since they have gotten gear shifting, lane changing, cornering, etc down. It is an illusion that costs a lot of money in wrecked bikes and a great deal of pain. A smaller bike helps to control those early urges and ou end up a safer rider on a better looking bike that suits you. As far as size goes, again, once you have learned to ride and balance, a small person can handle a heavy bike at a stop because she has developed the balance skills on a smaller bike. Those are my thoughts on the matter. Hope they're helpful. I guess there is one more thing. There are an awful lot of people who have been riding for a year or two who are happy to offer advice. Look for people who have survived longer than that. Their advice has been better tempered and anealed. Sourdough |
|
Subject: RE: BS: So how many of you are bikers? From: catspaw49 Date: 15 Jun 01 - 12:24 AM Good question Fionn!!! That's based on a kind of agreement with Karen until after this next surgery and also having two small boys as a stay at home Dad. Like sailing though, things are coming back together. By August 1, things will have turned out one way or another. Spaw |
|
Subject: RE: BS: So how many of you are bikers? From: Liz the Squeak Date: 15 Jun 01 - 12:57 AM Good advice there, I want to go for a big bike, but I know that I should start small and work up... I took an hours' assessment the other week, and although I shot the clutch too many times to mention, the bit I'm proudest of is the fact that I didn't drop the bugger. Make sure you have a bike that you can actually reach the ground on, flat footed, not tiptoe.... I rested it against my inner thigh and braced my shin against the footrest. This meant I could just wiggle onto it and as a short legged person (inside leg about 24") that's a bonus!! If you rie a cycle, then balance is easy. That was the hardest thing I learnt when cycling.... I was surprised at how stable it was even at a slow speed, something my cycle never was.... Mooman, nex time you are coming to London, give me a bell and we can go play with the Virago - that's another bike I have my eye one and there is one just up the road with the most amazing paint job..... Ah well, off for a day of dreaming now. Heaven help anyone who wants their tax return done today....! LTS |
|
Subject: RE: BS: So how many of you are bikers? From: Tomber9 Date: 15 Jun 01 - 01:25 AM If you all hurry, you can get to the races in Louden, New Hampshire this weekend. If not to watch the races, at least party at The Weirs in Laconia, NH Tom |
|
Subject: RE: BS: So how many of you are bikers? From: mooman Date: 15 Jun 01 - 02:44 AM Dear WyoWoman, Sourdough is right, you get used to balancing a stationary bike with experience. But if you're worried about it try at the very least sitting on a few bikes before buying. One with a low centre of gravity will be a lot easier for a smaller rider to balance than one of those things that has the engine about two or three feet above the ground with the saddle up in the stratosphere somewhere! Liz, I'll take you up on that offer! Safe biking! I'm about to jump on mine to go off to w**k! mooman |
|
Subject: RE: BS: So how many of you are bikers? From: Liz the Squeak Date: 15 Jun 01 - 02:32 PM What you doing in July Mooman?? I shall be fit for nothing until after 6th (test day) but after that, I will either need to drown my sorrows or GO SHOPPING!!! LTS |
|
Subject: RE: BS: So how many of you are bikers? From: Justa Picker Date: 15 Jun 01 - 02:40 PM WyoWoman, A 1300cc bike is HEAVY...I owned one, complete with fairing and the whole nine yards. I'm strong, broad shouldered and 200 lbs...and it was an effort to hold it up, let alone balancing on it at low speeds and near impossible to pick up if fallen. I would suggest a zippy 750-800cc puppy for you. Lighter, and easier to manage...and you can go just as fast as on a 1300. But work up to the 750. Start with something smaller and get comfortable with it. Then see what you can handle. |
|
Subject: RE: BS: So how many of you are bikers? From: Peter K (Fionn) Date: 15 Jun 01 - 09:15 PM Incredible, in this day and age, that anyone - man or woman - would think of starting out on a 1300cc monster. Only in the States! Just one point to add to Sourdough's sage thoughts: weight (within reason!) is not that critical, most of the time, especially if there's a neat way of flicking the bike onto its stand. What really counts for women (and guys who are on the short side) is seat height. The higher it is, the more you have to lean the bike to get a foot on the deck. The more you lean it, the more weight you're holding up. Bike stand geometry is fairly well sorted these days, but can be under-developed on the older bikes (Vins excepted of course). That little detail can be a real pain for the less well-built rider. |
|
Subject: RE: BS: So how many of you are bikers? From: Liz the Squeak Date: 16 Jun 01 - 02:50 AM Re: the height thing - it really isn't sensible to have a bike that you have to lean to get your foot down flat - how in hell do you hold it up at junctions safely?? Thank heaven for those nice low Triumphs - a mate of mine has a Legend - I just have to cock my leg over it - another mate's Kawasaki 750 is so high I have to bounce on the pins to get me leg over the back of it! Then there was the big sod off Yamaha FJR 1300 that needed a step ladder and breathing gear!! Ah, as long as Triumph are around and I win the lottery..... LTS |
|
Subject: RE: BS: So how many of you are bikers? From: Sourdough Date: 16 Jun 01 - 04:24 AM Fionn - You are right of course. The trick with handling a bike at rest is balance and you need to be able to have good footing. One of the things that surprises novice riders is just how stable a motorccle is, especially if they don't know a few basic principles of physics. Each of a motorcycle's wheels is actually a gyroscope. The wheels mass; rim, inner tube and tire is concetrated at the outside of the wheel. The inner part of the wheel is either spoked or has a lightweight structure holding the wheel in shape. As is the case with any gyro, the faster it turns, the more stable it becomes. This is why even when the wind is blowing from the side at 35 or 40 mph, a bike is stable. Even a gust will make it wobble only for a moment. It will soon return to straight. On the other hand, motorscooters, with their little wheels with solid centers, even though they are easy to hold up while at rest, are inherently less stable. Sourdough |
|
Subject: RE: BS: So how many of you are bikers? From: WyoWoman Date: 16 Jun 01 - 11:36 AM Well, I do get conflicting advice. Some say I absolutely have to get a small bike and others say, "Nah, if you get a low-to-the-ground cruiser you'll be just fine," and since one of the things I want to do is long road trips, others say I'll be unhappy with anything less than a BIG bike. So ... we shall see. I"m not at all opposed to getting a wee one and seeing how that does first. OR, I may forever remain a passenger. I'm a pretty nervy gal, but I wonder if this dawg is too old to learn all the new tricks I'd need to for actually piloting a motorcycle. Besides, I have been a bicyclist for so long I'm afraid muscle memory will kick in and I'll squeese those handbrakes right into a tree or sump'n'. ww |
|
Subject: RE: BS: So how many of you are bikers? From: catspaw49 Date: 16 Jun 01 - 12:35 PM This "Big Bike" think is kinda' humorous. Back in the days before the Big Bore Riceburner influx when things were just taking off, you either rode a Harley (Cops, outlaws, and the occasional fool), a scooter, a 50cc Honda or clone, or...if you wanted real performance to match the Harley in speed, acceleration, and out handle them......you rode a 500-650 cc BSA Triumph, or Norton. Everyone considered the Lightnings (BSA) and Bonnevilles (Triumph) the fastest things around. The 500-750 cc range bikes now have far better performance than any of them and are better machines than the first Japanese offerings in that size range.....which were indeed excellent! Yeah I have an 1100, but only because it was to me the most refined bike in an all-purpose category that is not seen as much now. Like, it's the logical and most technically advanced extension of the Bonnevilles. Anyway, I would honestly look at the 750 Nighthawk and the like........Simply great bikes, easily handled, reliable, and plenty of power. Spaw |
|
Subject: RE: BS: So how many of you are bikers? From: Sourdough Date: 16 Jun 01 - 01:04 PM Thanks, Catspaw. You said it well about the bikes - sze and power. The builders of bikes have responded to a market demand for bigger bikes that is somewhat irrational, much like that for the big higway cars of the Fifties and Sixties which were unneccessarily huge. People bought Chryslers with 400 horsepower (I think) engines that were never strained. The bggest reason to buy one was to show th ewworld that you could and to perhaps strike a chord of envy in those who saw you in it. Perhaps it was a reflection of the Cold War that each automobile company entered into the "Cars Race" trying to come up with a bigger car. I'm not talking about "muscle cars, they're something else. I am referring to Cadillac El Dorados, Chrysler Imperials, Lincolns, and the like. Even Fairlanes and other models down the line were getting larger and more luxurious. It was like a BAroque Period in automobile design. We are in the same period now but for motorcycles (and for SUVs) There are now plenty of people who want a giant bike with radios, speakers front and rear, powered windshield, enclosed motor, etc. These are behemoths and don't add anything to the motorcycling experience except pride of ownership. A new rider looking for a travel bike does not "need" a bike like that. I always feel sorry for the novice who gets sucked into buying one. Unfortunately there are always salesmen and well-meaning but inexperienced or uninformed motorcyclists who will tell you that you shouldn't even thnk about gong out on the highway with a bike less than 750ccs. My wife has a 250cc Yamaha, a Route 66. We travel together occasionally and she has no trouble keeping up with me or with the other big bikes in the Russian RIver MC. She is light, compared to me, which helps her weight to horspower ratio. She has tried the big bikes and is happiest on her little bike which does everything she needs and she feels that she can handle it under all conditions including picking it up if she should drop it. Summary: When looking for a motorcycle, listen to a lot of people but think for youself. Sourdough |
|
Subject: RE: BS: So how many of you are bikers? From: catspaw49 Date: 16 Jun 01 - 01:27 PM And right back atcha' Sourdough.....That's a great comparison! And I too have a friend who spent years riding a Honda 350 with no complaints and plenty of trips (that was a REALLY reliable bike and they made bookoo zillions of them). He finally went to 750 that he got for a great price and is riding it today. Does anyone really NEED a bike that will exceed the legal speed limit in first gear? Back to the "Baroque Bike" thing..........I have never been a fan of "dressers" to begin with and the stuff on the road today is unbelievable! It takes you 10 minutes to walk around the things! We were staying at a motel in Kentucky when two couples came in with one Honda and one Yamaha "Super Recline-O-Plotchers" towing trailers. They have all the gadgets and all the comfort and communications thingies.......Huge behemoths with engines buried somewhere under all that cowling, monstrous seats, bars, fairings, storage thingies (I hate to call them saddlebags), stereos, gadgets and gilwhickies galore......not to mention the damn trailers! I cannot understand why these folks didn't buy a car instead! Like a dumbass, I asked! I got the "love the feel of the open road" routine and smiled and moved on. Well, different strokes and all that stuff.....but everything I love about a bike was lost looking at those things. Open road? Be real.....I think you get more Open feelings in a convertible....amybe even in your family sedan with the windows down. They have one thing I like on them......Reversers. Always did like that idea......... Same Summary as Sourdough.....When looking for a motorcycle, listen to a lot of people but think for youself. Spaw |
|
Subject: RE: BS: So how many of you are bikers? From: Lonesome EJ Date: 16 Jun 01 - 03:42 PM I liked Homeless' comment about making sure that where you are parking has a flat spot. When I first got the Virago, I rode up a creek road and stopped on a grassy knoll overlooking the canyon. When I got ready to leave, I realized I was on a slight downhill, difficult to back up, impossible to go forward without taking a dive into the canyon. I thought I might have to lay it down and drag the front end around to get out. I sure could have used a "reverser" then. I am with Catspaw on all the trailers, sidecars, wraparound farings, double-stacked fiberglass saddle-packs, and other paraphernalia. Going on a bike trip ought to be about simplifying...leaving all of the clutter behind, and gutting it out with you've got. Just don't forget the rain gear and lip balm. |
|
Subject: RE: BS: So how many of you are bikers? From: little john cameron Date: 16 Jun 01 - 07:55 PM Well,that was a great blether guys and gals.See how us bikers can get along.Add music to that and you are in Heaven. Slainte, ljc |
|
Subject: RE: BS: So how many of you are bikers? From: catspaw49 Date: 16 Jun 01 - 08:17 PM Yeah LJ, I tell ya'.....after I get this mitral valve fixed next week, we oughta' plan the "Aneurysm Ride".........or even better, we REALLY ought to get a Great Mudcat Ride thing going. Do a Bill and Allan thing on bikes........or we have a couple of guys who do "handoffs" over various segments. Two or three start out and as one or two drop off somewhere we pick up somebody else. We come, we go.......eventually the trip has coveres most of North America with any number of riders doing various parts! Leej, you just weren't "skeert" enough. I laid the big Suzuki down not long after I got it (curve guaranteed to bust out at 35 and I went into it at 50) and as I slid to a stop, I saw the bike sliding over the bank. Luckily it was only 2 feet, but the bike was bars down, wheels up. Adrenalin is a great and strange thing.......I ran over and grabbed the bars and saddle and turned it upright on top of the bank! Damn thing weighed 650 pounds wet!!! Under normal conditions I couldn't have lifted it from it's side off the garage floor! Spaw |
|
Subject: RE: BS: So how many of you are bikers? From: Lonesome EJ Date: 16 Jun 01 - 08:27 PM Hey Spaw, I can't really believe it, but you had a great idea! We need to transport something, I don't know, some Mudcat icon across the country by Motorcycle. It could start off at the Mudcat World HQ in Pennsylvania, and cross the entire USofA to Amos's or Swan's or Sourdough's on the left coast. A kind of a Great Mudcat Two Wheel Relay Extravaganza, people jumping in and out, riding and making music from Coast to Coast. Whaddaya think? |
|
Subject: RE: BS: So how many of you are bikers? From: catspaw49 Date: 16 Jun 01 - 08:36 PM Yeah....that's the idea!!! LJC is up in the hinterlands of Canada, in the Maritimes, and would be a great start. We wouldn't have to follow a direct route at all and any number could play. Rider(s) stop at various locations and the "Icon" get's personalized from the 'Catters there. Then it just keeps relaying across to wherever. Ya' know, it could be done over a longer time period too. AS people are available to meet and gather and the like.....then the next leg at a convenient time......it'd be a kick! Icon? I think we need a banjo pot.....take the neck off and it's easy to pack and if folks write reasonably small, you could get a lot of signatures............What else would work? Spaw |
|
Subject: RE: BS: So how many of you are bikers? From: Lonesome EJ Date: 16 Jun 01 - 08:41 PM We could go West to East as well, and take something that Max and Bert could show on the Radio Program. Sign me up for the Colorado stretch. I think we need a thread for this, Spaw. |
|
Subject: RE: BS: So how many of you are bikers? From: catspaw49 Date: 16 Jun 01 - 08:44 PM Bodhran? Sttart a thread Leej.......Mudcat Motorcyclists needed or something like that.... Spaw |
|
Subject: RE: BS: So how many of you are bikers? From: Dave Swan Date: 16 Jun 01 - 09:28 PM Leej, Come and see us for sure. Who knows, maybe I'll folow you guys for a while. D |
|
Subject: RE: BS: So how many of you are bikers? From: catspaw49 Date: 16 Jun 01 - 09:45 PM Geez El Swanno....Do you mean on a bike or with a Squad Unit, kinda' drummin' up business? (:<)) Anyone interested in participating somehow or another in this particular piece of wacked-out insanity that just hatched here....... Spaw |
|
Subject: RE: BS: So how many of you are bikers? From: Dave Swan Date: 16 Jun 01 - 09:49 PM Dunno yet |
|
Subject: RE: BS: So how many of you are bikers? From: Liz the Squeak Date: 17 Jun 01 - 01:59 AM Whoo hooo! What did I start here?? 'Easy Rider' meets 'Speed' meets 'Around the world in 80 days'! And all because I asked who were bikers..... I totally agree with the size thing. It seems that people of a certain age suddenly get hung up with comfort over experience - never visiting new pubs, never listening to different music, always using the car when it rains..... There were a whole load of them at the bike show yesterday.... row of about 25 - 30 armchairs with engines. All gleaming, all showroom condition, low mileage and all costing £15k and over (about $28 - 30K?). On the side of a beat up but still beautiful Triumph parked alongside was a sticker that said it all... "15 grand and 15 miles don't make a biker". Made my day!! LTS |
|
Subject: RE: BS: So how many of you are bikers? From: Haruo Date: 17 Jun 01 - 03:18 AM Well, I'm not a biker (nor even much of a transvestite) but here's a picture of me sitting on a motorcycle in drag. Liland |
|
Subject: RE: BS: So how many of you are bikers? From: Eric the Viking Date: 17 Jun 01 - 11:35 AM Know what you mean Liz, once at the IoM TT we pulled our rat bike outfit up next to this immaculate Harly outfit. they two germans looked at us and our bike. They wore matching coloured leathers, colour co-ordinated to their sidecar outfit. I told them it was a nice bike and and it looked good (as you do) They proceeded to tell us that the outfit cost 30,000 English pounds. I told them our outfit cost 300, but still got us to the IoM-that shut them up, later, we thrashed shit out of them and their steib/harley outfit. they posed well, but couldn't ride worth a dam and didn't seem to have the nerve to hit the bends hard!!! Ride free Eric |
|
Subject: RE: BS: So how many of you are bikers? From: Liz the Squeak Date: 24 Jun 01 - 03:01 PM When you spend a fortune on the paint job, you get a little nervous about the knocks. I know someone who is just as antsy about his car... can never get past the fact that it is just a hunk of metal designed to keep you on the road and keep bugs out of your teeth. If it looks like shit, you ain't worried about treating it like shit. This does not apply to humans, although there are one or two people out there who think it does. LTS |
|
Subject: RE: BS: So how many of you are bikers? From: GUEST,Guest Biker Date: 24 Jun 01 - 03:34 PM My Grandma wanted to be a Hells Angel a few years ago.She went to there headquarters & knocked on the door telling the guy that answered of her dream. He looked at this little old lady and asked her what kind of bike she had. Oh I got a big Harley Hog.Do you take a drink Granny? Sure Vodka straight up. Do you smoke Granny? Sure I use a little weed. Last question- you ever been pinched by the fuzz? "No, but I been swung by the nipples a few times." |
|
Subject: RE: BS: So how many of you are bikers? From: Liz the Squeak Date: 25 Jun 01 - 05:49 PM I qualified for my white wings..... Probably more information than you wanted to know..... Just be grateful it wasn't the brown or yellow.... LTS |
|
Subject: RE: BS: So how many of you are bikers? From: Eric the Viking Date: 26 Jun 01 - 01:24 PM Good on yer, next time to the Jug-big Honda Goldwing outfit for you!!!!! naw, make it a BMW much better bike. Brattling and squeze box in the chair, cheers. |
|
Subject: RE: BS: So how many of you are bikers? From: Hawker Date: 26 Jun 01 - 08:19 PM Hi I'm a biker too, I prefer to ride vinatge bikes, and until recently was the proud owner of a Douglas MkIII sports 1948 model, they were made in Bristol, UK and had horizontally opposed engines, like BMW's, though they stole the idea from Douglas Motorcycles. I had to sell the bike to pay for the camper, much needed to transport the family round to various Folk Functions etc. I now have as a stopgap, until I (and my hubby) have built another Douglas from a pile of spares accumulating in the shed, a BMW R45. it is a nice little bike, but I often wonder if I should go for something a little more daring! On second thoughts, I am probably safer with the BM! Regards, Lucy |
|
Subject: RE: BS: So how many of you are bikers? From: Coyote Breath Date: 26 Jun 01 - 08:59 PM Well, I've had a Harley, (a pan head) once a Washington DC police bike. I also had a Triumph Bonneville. Then I found the strangest bike. It was a Bultaco Metralla, 250 cc 2 stroke @ 37 HP. It weighed 190# and went VERY fast. The design had come about when Bultaco decided it wanted to WIN the Isle of Mann TT. It did, in its class, in 1967 or 68. Can't remember fer sure. Gawd, I loved that bike! It was sooo easy to work on. Unlike my Triumph. I had occasion to rebuild the bottom end once and I had that case out and split and the bearings in my back pack down to the SKF shop inside of an hour! I attempted to race it in production once and lost my nerve (and the bottom end, see above) We had a naughty cafe race each Sunday from Tam junction to Point Reyes Station (and later, Inverness) California. Gawd, I LOVED that bike. Well now I ride a bicycle, just sent my Ron Cooper (He of Sheffield, England) to my youngest daughter, buying a Trek. At 62, I do pretty well, I can average 18 mph on most trips, but it ain't as scary as that Bultaco, Or, I must admit, as much fun. |
|
Subject: RE: BS: So how many of you are bikers? From: Coyote Breath Date: 26 Jun 01 - 09:03 PM Well, I've had a Harley, (a pan head) once a Washington DC police bike. I also had a Triumph Bonneville. Then I found the strangest bike. It was a Bultaco Metralla, 250 cc 2 stroke @ 37 HP. It weighed 190# and went VERY fast. The design had come about when Bultaco decided it wanted to WIN the Isle of Mann TT. It did, in its class, in 1967 or 68. Can't remember fer sure. Gawd, I loved that bike! It was sooo easy to work on. Unlike my Triumph. I had occasion to rebuild the bottom end once and I had that case out and split and the bearings in my back pack down to the SKF shop inside of an hour! I attempted to race it in production once and lost my nerve (and the bottom end, see above) We had a naughty cafe race each Sunday from Tam junction to Point Reyes Station (and later, Inverness) California. Gawd, I LOVED that bike. Well now I ride a bicycle, just sent my Ron Cooper (He of Sheffield, England) to my youngest daughter, buying a Trek. At 62, I do pretty well, I can average 18 mph on most trips, but it ain't as scary as that Bultaco, Or, I must admit, as much fun. |
|
Subject: RE: BS: So how many of you are bikers? From: Liz the Squeak Date: 27 Jun 01 - 01:12 AM Eric - you're on! Bring it to Llanfair, I'll slip the lid in the car and we'll burn a few miles and scare the sheep!! LTS |
|
Subject: RE: BS: So how many of you are bikers? From: mooman Date: 27 Jun 01 - 04:52 AM So Eric and Liz, Are Llanstock and the Jug now to be bikers' as well as music venues? If so count me in doubly! mooman |
|
Subject: RE: BS: So how many of you are bikers? From: Jim Cheydi Date: 27 Jun 01 - 05:35 AM LC 'nuff said |
|
Subject: RE: BS: So how many of you are bikers? From: Liz the Squeak Date: 27 Jun 01 - 05:18 PM If all goes well next week and I pass, I may well have my own bike there and no Manitas!!! Mooman, you are definately on!! I will drag in any promise if it means I get to go for a ride on a good bike.... Why not? October isn't that bad, and who likes a fair weather biker anyway?! LTS |
|
Subject: RE: BS: So how many of you are bikers? From: Liz the Squeak Date: 15 Jul 01 - 01:24 AM Well, the saga continues.... I'm now the proud owner of a knackered old Honda CB125DT-E, which is a big ugly red bugger, and needs a new ignition. Give me a few weeks and I'll be out there.... straining bugs with ma teeth and pickin possums out ma tyres!!! (OK, so we don't have possums, but pickin hedgehogs didn't really sound as good... besides, don't want those nasty prickles on my delicate little tyres do I?). Am I an excited little bunny or what?? LTS |