ST Member Motorcycle Appriciation Thread

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Disaster Master

Social climber
Born in So-Cal, left my soul in far Nor-Cal.
Topic Author's Original Post - Dec 22, 2010 - 09:53pm PT
I know you're out there. When not going up, how do you roll on two wheels?
Any moto-journey-climbin' tales?
WBraun

climber
Dec 22, 2010 - 10:05pm PT
What's with the helmet and leather jacket.

Aren't you supposed to be "Bad to the Bone" and free spirit.

No helmet, shirtless with tattoos and sh'it, all hells angels.

Even that poser on that late night show rides a Harley.
Disaster Master

Social climber
Born in So-Cal, left my soul in far Nor-Cal.
Topic Author's Reply - Dec 22, 2010 - 10:26pm PT
What's with the helmet and leather jacket.

Aren't you supposed to be "Bad to the Bone" and free spirit.

No helmet, shirtless with tattoos and sh'it, hell angels.


Well, the helmet is mandatory in good old CA. I do have a head injury. does that count?
The tattoos are under the leather, scars too from stuff like this.
What a wierdo weenie:
Holy thread drift, capt'n!

Chinchen

climber
Way out there....
Dec 22, 2010 - 10:31pm PT
A Honda I built a few years ago:


nature

climber
Tuscon Again! India! India! Hawaii! LA?!?!
Dec 23, 2010 - 12:56am PT
It isn't a motorcycle but....

yesterday I sold my 2005 Vespa 150cc two stroke.


still got the helmut though...


karodrinker

Trad climber
San Jose, CA
Dec 23, 2010 - 12:56am PT
Chinchen, sweet bike! How much total did you spend on it? I've been thinking about old bikes lately...
mucci

Trad climber
The pitch of Bagalaar above you
Dec 23, 2010 - 01:40am PT
I can throw it up in 3rd....

Photo by Neville

Mucci
dee ee

Mountain climber
citizen of planet Earth
Dec 23, 2010 - 01:23pm PT
On Saddleback in the snow.


Solo overnighter on the Mojave Trail.

Jake
this just in

climber
north fork
Dec 23, 2010 - 01:45pm PT
Honda!!!!!!! Sheet yeah, Throttle jockeys.
this just in

climber
north fork
Dec 23, 2010 - 02:07pm PT
Locker if it's paid for don't sell it. Stem cell research may help you out. What do doctors know anyways?
pud

climber
Sportbikeville & Yucca brevifolia
Dec 23, 2010 - 02:13pm PT
We ride.

[photoid=183210



Norton

Social climber
the Wastelands
Dec 23, 2010 - 02:22pm PT
17 motorcycles since 1968.
All big bore road bikes.

In my garage now: 2006 Honda ST 1300 V4

And my all-time favorite, 1973 Norton 850 Commando


Will post some pics later

Norton

Social climber
the Wastelands
Dec 23, 2010 - 02:45pm PT
My drop dead gorgeous built to the hilt 1973 Norton 850 Commando.
pud

climber
Sportbikeville & Yucca brevifolia
Dec 23, 2010 - 02:45pm PT
Awesome Locker.


Partying and riding the track with Bill Huth !

That's history in the making.
Norton

Social climber
the Wastelands
Dec 23, 2010 - 02:46pm PT
And my 2006 asphalt inhaling Honda ST1300 V4

Avert eyes away from the suspenders and grey hair.
Chalk Martin

Mountain climber
CA
Dec 23, 2010 - 02:58pm PT


The best part was watching her get back into the wheel
chair.
Chalk Martin

Mountain climber
CA
Dec 23, 2010 - 03:05pm PT
atchafalaya

climber
Babylon
Dec 23, 2010 - 03:09pm PT

My dirt ride (no photos) is a 2002 KTM 400 EXC
davidji

Social climber
CA
Dec 23, 2010 - 03:54pm PT

"Any moto-journey-climbin' tales?"

I've got this one (Warning, it's a repost):
http://www.advrider.com/forums/showthread.php?t=612162

Captain...or Skully

Big Wall climber
leading the away team, but not in a red shirt!
Dec 23, 2010 - 04:12pm PT
I used to run an '83 Honda Shadow 700. Bought it right off the showroom floor.
Ran it for 2 years, but sold it, due to my apparent inability to slow down. Several tickets!! D'oh!
More recently, I bought an '82 honda 250 Enduro from Cade. Mostly to & from work, though I DID get in some backcountry redneckin' in. Sold it due to poverty.
I'll get another someday. Rooma zoom zoom!
Tattooed 1

Trad climber
Sebastopol, Ca
Dec 23, 2010 - 04:33pm PT
I built this one in 05 before I started climbing. This is at Bonneville on the way home from Sturgis.
I would have put the pics in from the Easyrider issue it was in but I didn't think naked chicks were appropriate for this site.
Norton

Social climber
the Wastelands
Dec 23, 2010 - 05:14pm PT
atcha,

What year is your airhead Beemer, looks 80s ish? R100?
davidji

Social climber
CA
Dec 23, 2010 - 05:48pm PT
"Custom Sportster '91' Harley...(Was an 883 beefed up to a 1200... Changed heads did NOT "bore it out")"

Changed barrels? Changing heads doesn't affect the displacement.
Norton

Social climber
the Wastelands
Dec 23, 2010 - 06:01pm PT
Had to buy new 1200cc barrels.

Would his 883 head bolt right on?

How could the larger bore pistons line up with the stock smaller combustion chamber?

I never could figure out on Harleys what went with what....
Norton

Social climber
the Wastelands
Dec 23, 2010 - 06:06pm PT
Here's a shot of the Norton motor with the new PWK flat slides carbs!

Bikes are so much cheaper and faster than cars to fall in love with!
atchafalaya

climber
Babylon
Dec 23, 2010 - 06:23pm PT
Norton, 1995 R100 RT converted to an S with the cafe fairing and straight bars. Your Norton is sweet.
dee ee

Mountain climber
citizen of planet Earth
Dec 23, 2010 - 09:41pm PT
OK, here is a ride/climbing story.
In 1975 I rode my 175cc Kawasaki enduro up to Idyllwild to climb. It was barely fast enough to ride on the freeway but it got me there.
Went climbing but it was the weekend of the old Idyllwild Bluegrass Festival. Matt Cox and I wanted to check out the music as well as climb. On Sunday we headed over there riding double up. Cash was low, we couldn't afford the entry fee. We worked our way around the back side of county park where the event was happening, found the barbed wire back fence and tugged that bike under the fence. We were in!
We enjoyed the show and headed back for Humber where Matt's ride was (Randy?).
As we were leaving through the park entrance gate the rangers grabbed and detained us. Somehow they knew we hadn't entered in their approved fashion. We had to confess the details of our transgression. They threatened to bust us but, thankfully, they did not...WHEW!
16 year olds live charmed lives.
Norton

Social climber
the Wastelands
Dec 23, 2010 - 09:50pm PT
Atcha,

Is 95 the last year of the airheads?

I bought one of very first "oil" heads, an RS, when they came out in 94.

Being a new model then, I had the clutch and gearbox replaced under warranty
but at around only 20K miles.

Mighty Hiker

climber
Vancouver, B.C.
Dec 23, 2010 - 09:56pm PT
I would have put the pics in from the Easyrider issue it was in but I didn't think naked chicks were appropriate for this site.
Try us. You might be surprised.
FRUMY

Trad climber
SHERMAN OAKS,CA
Dec 23, 2010 - 10:11pm PT
Peter Haan

Trad climber
San Francisco, CA
Dec 23, 2010 - 10:22pm PT
My most recent one: R1200GS 2008

Three years ago: R1200GS 2005

R90S, similar photo, owned 83-92

R69S, similar photo, owned 1974-1978. This was the roller bearing crank model!









Norton

Social climber
the Wastelands
Dec 23, 2010 - 10:29pm PT
Peter, everything I have been reading lately says the all around best

sport touring bike is your GS.


A close friend just bought a 2011 GS, couple more horsepower from the new head.

Rode it last week, wow what a motor and great handling bike.

Yours is beautiful

Are those Jesse bags?
the Fet

climber
Tu-Tok-A-Nu-La
Dec 23, 2010 - 10:38pm PT
I'm jealous Peter. That's the ultimate all around bike.

I had about 10 bikes when I was younger, but I haven't owned a bike for about 20 years, ouch. I'll be getting a dirt bike come spring though.

Not a bike but like having a motocross bike on the waves:

Norton

Social climber
the Wastelands
Dec 23, 2010 - 10:40pm PT
This thread should never die.

Take a fast ride on a motor bike.
Freddy Mercury
Queen
Peter Haan

Trad climber
San Francisco, CA
Dec 23, 2010 - 10:59pm PT
Although the R1200GS is a completely wonderful bike and insanely capable with a good record of service, if it turns out that all you really actually to-be-honest ride is roadways, you might want to take a look at the current K bikes instead which are 4 cylinder (inline) designs. They are even more powerful than the boxer-style R, bikes and the torque curve is really noticeably better within 2 seconds of getting on one, all the way down to 1000 rpm. Ridiculous. Wonderful. Little or no feathering and dithering around with the clutch, I tell you! The R1200GS bike is also a jumping bike, although kinda heavy, like 460 lbs (I remember) dry. The forks have something like 8” of travel but still at high highway speeds, it is tight and secure and feels solid up to about 120 mph. Its turning circle is excellent to compared to any high speed road bike, including the K’s. Jumping the GS is really really fun and the bike really comes alive then.

And now, in a few months, BMW has a 6 inline coming out, the K1600GT. It is largely redesigned from its predecessor K-4 inline bikes. Initially, the most dramatic new aspect of this bike is the headlamp. It articulates towards the curve you must ride rather than away as all other bikes on earth do with countersteer. Further it will also automatically tilt downward and upwards as well; all of this is about the road you must ride. You can't see one yet; I think April. But their website has tons of info and pictures you can enjoy.

One last thing, one of the greatest features of modern, better bikes is ABS---the automatic braking system. If you snatch the handbrake as ALL riders will do sometimes in panic, unable to balance with front and rear brakes, hand and foot levers, you won’t break the front wheel loose having locked it up and then be injured or killed. Instead the system decides how to brake the fastest, using both wheels and in some cases the suspension as well, depending, all with the plan of keeping the rubber under you. A huge lifesaver. I won’t have a bike without it any more.
Mighty Hiker

climber
Vancouver, B.C.
Dec 23, 2010 - 11:03pm PT
So it looks like Peter will be Mighty (Motor)Biker. Who will be Mighty Biker? Pedal people, come in!
Gary

climber
Desolation Basin, Calif.
Dec 23, 2010 - 11:04pm PT
Nortons didn't come with Amals? Did you replace the Lucas parts?

I don't have any pictures of my bikes. Started with a Yamaha RD250. That thing was super quick, not fast, but quick. Fouled a lot of plugs.

Then I got a '74 Triumph Trident. Sweet, sweet, sweet. Should've kept it after the wreck. Here's an example:
Smiths Instruments, three Amals, oil cooler, Dunlops and of course, Lucas, Prince of Darkness.

Then the '76 Bonnie. Very fast, none of the Jap bikes could take it off the line. Of course, they all blew by it soon enough. Leaked oil, parts literally fell off. (When the front bumper fell off, that hurt.) However, on those rare occasions when it all came together and it actually ran, it was like a dream, everything a motorcycle should be.

Then the shovelhead, but it all got to be too scary.
Norton

Social climber
the Wastelands
Dec 23, 2010 - 11:16pm PT
Gary, yeah all Norton Commando came fitted with Amals.

I took the original Amals off 15 years ago and ran with a single Mikuni.

But this spring I pulled the motor out and had a complete rebuild right down
to new camshaft, pistons, etc.

Wanted to complete the performance upgrade so bought a pair of 32mm flat slides.

Boy do they make a difference, along with fitting a new TriSpark electronic ignition!
Captain...or Skully

Big Wall climber
leading the away team, but not in a red shirt!
Dec 23, 2010 - 11:22pm PT
Some great wheels here. Awesome thread. Makes me miss my bike.
dammit. Yarr.
pud

climber
Sportbikeville & Yucca brevifolia
Dec 23, 2010 - 11:26pm PT
I had that exact same bike Gary!
'74 RD250, same color too. I rode that thing everywhere. "Quick" it was.
Disaster Master

Social climber
Born in So-Cal, left my soul in far Nor-Cal.
Topic Author's Reply - Dec 23, 2010 - 11:28pm PT
Gunna have to start a gang...

"Sticky Rubber Riders"?

Great pix!

Minerals

Social climber
The Deli
Dec 23, 2010 - 11:37pm PT
Cool thread, Motorheads.

Nice photos, Pud. What year is your CR 500?

Hey Skully, you and Cade get a bike and we’ll go ride the single-tracks around Ketchum. Deal?


’95 CR 500


Some of you mountain bikers might enjoy the single-tracks out in the desert, if you don’t mind pedaling to get there. We’ve got miles of it, and it’s so much fun.




D739 Desert AT (Traction Action)


Braaaap!!!

TGT

Social climber
So Cal
Dec 23, 2010 - 11:45pm PT
I have a 68, R69S pregnant cow tank, with two sets of full Wixom fiberglass, upper and lower, and two sets of Harley fiberglass bags, VW tail lights in the shed that needs a good home if someone is interested in a restoration project.

I've been told the most lucrative option would be to part it out, but I can't quite bring myself to do that.
pud

climber
Sportbikeville & Yucca brevifolia
Dec 23, 2010 - 11:50pm PT
I've had five CR500's

85,89,91,94 and my current 97

Nothin' like an open class two stroke.
pud

climber
Sportbikeville & Yucca brevifolia
Dec 24, 2010 - 12:04am PT
I once got fired from the FX crew on one of the 'Fast and Furious' movies for doing wheelies through basecamp on a borrowed XR100.

Too much fun !

Captain...or Skully

Big Wall climber
leading the away team, but not in a red shirt!
Dec 24, 2010 - 12:07am PT
Bigtime, Mineral Boy. We'll ride!
Norton

Social climber
the Wastelands
Dec 24, 2010 - 12:13am PT
I like it, Locker.

How come you don't ride it anymore?
Captain...or Skully

Big Wall climber
leading the away team, but not in a red shirt!
Dec 24, 2010 - 12:21am PT
The shark eating yer head can't be helping, either.
Norton

Social climber
the Wastelands
Dec 24, 2010 - 12:24am PT
Pity, I bet she is a blast to take out on perfect afternoons.


edit: how long have you been sleeping together?
Minerals

Social climber
The Deli
Dec 24, 2010 - 12:29am PT
Right on, Pud. That’s a lot of CR’s!

Had mine for almost 10 years and have rebuilt it, from the frame up, three times now. Got it pretty dialed in for the desert. My friends all call it a “dinosaur” though. Whatever, it’s a great bike.

That 650 Motard looks killer… literally. Dangerously fun. You have 2 XR 650’s? How do you like that “desert sled” compared to your 500’s? Nice collection of bikes!


Hey Frumy, is that a KDX 250, or thereabouts, left of the pumpkin? That was my first bike – a ’94.


Aye, aye, Cap’m!
pud

climber
Sportbikeville & Yucca brevifolia
Dec 24, 2010 - 12:39am PT
Funny you should say that about the XR Motard.
I high-sided that thing at Willow Springs racing in October and am just now getting back in shape. $20k in doctors bills but I have good insurance, thankfully.
I've retired it to the street and I'll try to be good there...

I ride my CR5 with guys on new CRF450's all the time and have no problem doing anything they can and more.
No comparo between the CR and XR for dirt. The XR is just too heavy.

Where are you in those pictures? Looks familiar.
Minerals

Social climber
The Deli
Dec 24, 2010 - 12:58am PT
Ouch! Good thing that you are all right. That doesn’t sound like fun.

One of my friends used to ride/race an XR 650. It’s a lot of bike, but he could go through gnarly rocks way faster than the rest of us. That heavy bike would just track. Now it seems that all of my riding friends are on pumpkins.

Also got an ’05 CRF 450, but it needs more suspension work, and a carb cleaning, etc. Been sitting for too long. My 500 does way better in the rocks; the 450 is so light that it just deflects off of stuff. I should work on that thing.

Uh, photos… Northern Nevada, Churchill and Pershing Counties… first photo is southern edge of Granite Springs Valley (Trinity Range in background); second photo is Shawave Range, west side of Granite Springs Valley.
Gary

climber
Desolation Basin, Calif.
Dec 24, 2010 - 01:03am PT
I had that exact same bike Gary!
'74 RD250, same color too. I rode that thing everywhere. "Quick" it was.

Pud, I rode my RD to Bloomington, Ind. once, about 150 miles. I couldn't feel my hands until the next day.
davidji

Social climber
CA
Dec 24, 2010 - 01:46am PT
Where to put em...
garage?

shed?
davidji

Social climber
CA
Dec 24, 2010 - 01:57am PT
"Cool little bike and for a Harley...

fast as fuking sh!t!!!..."

People talk about how cool the 883s are but it seem like a lot of people decide to upgrade the engine.

I really liked the Buell Ulysses I rode, with a pretty similar engine (based on Sportster 1200, with 103hp, 7k RPM redline). I wanted to make it mine, but it wasn't meant to be. Oh well...

marv

Mountain climber
Bay Area
Dec 24, 2010 - 02:11am PT
Peter, Gary -- love the old-school bikes. Gorgeous.
hooblie

climber
from where the anecdotes roam
Dec 24, 2010 - 06:06am PT

1969 Sachs 125, west german International Six Days Trial bike.

i was on two wheels for the first several years of my driving life. picture this rig leaning against the barb wire fence outside castle rock before the parking lot. that would be about the tamest of probes into the santa cruz mountains. in those days access to many of the nooks and crannys of the coast range were only barely restricted to motorcyles. even organized off-road events were held in places that today would raise a hue and cry.

mine had lights and license so it was the was the basis of my early dating career. the petite passengers were favored. after the bike and i moved into a VW bus, an additional qualification was imposed, that being tacit agreement that three was not a crowd
climber bob

Social climber
maine
Dec 24, 2010 - 07:21am PT
Rokrover

Trad climber
SB, CA
Dec 24, 2010 - 08:03am PT
Some of my more memorable iron from BITD that fellow old timers should recognize:





All machines with great character. Present ride is a stock Sportster XL883 Iron that embodies a lot of these classic traits, too.
Elcapinyoazz

Social climber
Joshua Tree
Dec 24, 2010 - 02:58pm PT
I don't have pics handy.

First bike: Honda XR80 dirt bike. Broken hand while racing my brother when I cut a turn around a tree too closely.
Second: Yamaha 100 dirt bike,
3rd: Honda CBR 600 street bike. Almost died on that one in midtown Atlanta. split a stopped car and a car in the adjacent lane at about 80mph...brushed both car mirrors.
4th: Kawasucki Ninja 1000. Too heavy for me for a rice rocket, didn't keep it long.

Current: '63 Harley panhead, w/ suicide shifter. College graduation present from my uncle, who'd owned the bike since I was a little kid. Pics in the family album of me on back at about 5yr old, starting bolts for my uncle with my tiny hands in the living room at about 4yr old with PBR cans all over. Unfortunately it's sitting 3000mi away right now.
dougs510

Social climber
down south
Dec 24, 2010 - 08:56pm PT
Fall Sunday, 2010.... Heading into Kentucky with friends.

My friends, Mark and Susan:


blackbird

Trad climber
the flat water trails...
Dec 24, 2010 - 09:10pm PT

This past July just after successfully navigating the creek crossing but right before I laid the dayumned thing down in a rocky uphill hairpin.

All part of the fun, right?!

bb

"oh yeah" edit: KTM xcfw
Chief

climber
The NW edge of The Hudson Bay
Dec 24, 2010 - 09:25pm PT
This one gets my vote.

cupton

climber
Where the past and future meet
Dec 24, 2010 - 09:51pm PT

India is a hell of a place to learn to ride a motorcycle.
TomCochrane

Trad climber
Santa Cruz Mountains and Monterey Bay
Dec 24, 2010 - 10:20pm PT
1960s - Yamaha 125, Yamaha 250
1970s - Honda 350, Suzuki 900
1980-2004 - BMW R75/5, three times across the country and back, 80,000 miles
2004-present - BMW Rockster



Gary

climber
Desolation Basin, Calif.
Dec 24, 2010 - 11:47pm PT
Flatheads rule. But that Velo is pretty nice!
jtlocal

Trad climber
Joshua Tree
Dec 25, 2010 - 12:08am PT
Norton

Social climber
the Wastelands
Dec 25, 2010 - 12:12am PT
I could never figure out how it is possible to control a motorcycle

with such high handlebars, and particularly at any kind of high speed.



What is the attraction is ultra high bars?

I have been riding for over 45 years and still don't understand it.
jtlocal

Trad climber
Joshua Tree
Dec 25, 2010 - 12:27am PT
I have no problems with control. It handles better than you would think.
Baggers are not built for speed. it's a fun ride.
As for the "ultra high bars"... It's all image, So Cal style.
TC

Trad climber
Claremont, CA
Dec 25, 2010 - 02:46am PT
If you are in love with two wheels:

http://www.manixmag.com/tech/awesome-motorcycle-designs.html
Wack

climber
Dazevue
Dec 25, 2010 - 04:58am PT
[photoid=183412]

40 MPG, fun in the twisties and a small footprint in parking lots.
Wack

climber
Dazevue
Dec 25, 2010 - 05:06am PT

While the Harley allows one to enjoy the scenery while cruising the Supermoto is the other side of the coin. Shredding Hiway 4 over Ebbits Pass to Zephyr Cove is another way to roll.
Disaster Master

Social climber
Born in So-Cal, left my soul in far Nor-Cal.
Topic Author's Reply - Dec 25, 2010 - 11:36am PT
Wack, that Deuce is fantastic and fun looking.
sac

Trad climber
Sun Coast B.C.
Dec 25, 2010 - 02:39pm PT
1952 Black Vincent...
Richard Thompson

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2lCH5JgWCZY&feature=related
Norton

Social climber
the Wastelands
Dec 25, 2010 - 02:57pm PT
And let's not forget the man and his machine.

The most famous photograph in all of motorcycling.

Rollie Free exceeded 150mph lying prone on the rear fender in his bathing trunks.

What a man!




Rollie Free was a racer during the 1920s and '30s, but is best known for setting the American motorcycle one-mile speed record in 1948, when he rode a British-made Vincent HRD Black Shadow to a speed of 150.313 mph at the Bonneville Salt Flats in Utah. To make that record run, Free stripped down to tight-fitting swimming shorts and laid flat on the Vincent to cut down on every last bit of wind resistance. A photo of the swinsuit-clad Free racing across the salt flats at 150 mph became one of the most famous photos in the history of the sport.
Mighty Hiker

climber
Vancouver, B.C.
Dec 25, 2010 - 02:59pm PT
Nice ... six pack!
Chief

climber
The NW edge of The Hudson Bay
Dec 25, 2010 - 03:03pm PT
Hate to imagine the road rash potential.
Chief

climber
The NW edge of The Hudson Bay
Dec 25, 2010 - 03:06pm PT
Black Vincent 52 a la Del McCoury

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YW-w0KgE-8s
Norton

Social climber
the Wastelands
Dec 25, 2010 - 03:13pm PT
Another iconic photo.
This time it is 1973 and Peter Williams wins the Formula 750 TT race at the Isle of Man on his monocoque framed Norton Commando.

The Isle of Man race is run on public roads blocked off on the 37 mile mountain circuit.

Peter raised the TT lap record to over 107mph that day.


Here he is airborn. Live long and cherish the memories, Peter!




dogtown

Trad climber
JackAssVille, Wyoming
Dec 25, 2010 - 03:17pm PT

I got a of shit!
guido

Trad climber
Santa Cruz/New Zealand/South Pacific
Dec 25, 2010 - 03:51pm PT
Two of my favorites-just sold them so I could buy more boat gear. Ah, the sacrifices we have to make in life. Had a Bonneville back in the 60s.

I remember going on a ride with Haan back in 1974 ish when he had just started riding and was a little stiff with the action. Too rigid, trying to overpower the machine instead of flowing with it on curves in the Santa Cruz Mountains.

Back in town and close to my house, Peter is ahead of me and I see a car come out of a side street and he collides with it, flies into the air and lands on the hood. "oh my god, he has to be dead". Haan rolls off the hood, shakes himself like a dog that just got out of the water and proceeds to examine his bike. The driver of the car and I are the ones that are all shook up!


dogtown

Trad climber
JackAssVille, Wyoming
Dec 25, 2010 - 03:59pm PT

Cool No?
dee ee

Mountain climber
citizen of planet Earth
Dec 25, 2010 - 04:19pm PT
Minerals, where is that trail?
Minerals

Social climber
The Deli
Dec 25, 2010 - 04:59pm PT
“Uh, photos… Northern Nevada, Churchill and Pershing Counties… first photo is southern edge of Granite Springs Valley (Trinity Range in background); second photo is Shawave Range, west side of Granite Springs Valley.”


Dee, I’d be happy to show you or anyone else around out there, if you are in the (Reno Hell) area. There’re lots and lots of single-track trails, two-tracks, and washes… and more whoops than you will ever want to ride. Some of the tight canyons can only be ridden on a bike (too narrow for quads). Super fun.

I tried to get out there yesterday, but after warming the bike up and putting around for a minute, I took off and only got about 2.5 miles from the truck and all of a sudden things got really loud. It sounded like it was coming from the front of the engine/exhaust manifold. I stopped to check the bike. Didn’t see anything wrong and gave the pipe a few taps with my boot to make sure it was still solid (too hot to touch). It seemed solid, so I started it up and decided to head back to the truck to take a closer look. It was running fine, but man, my ears were hurting. And no sense doing more damage to something that needs to be fixed, or worse… getting stranded.

When I took a closer look after letting the bike cool down, I found that the pipe was cracked, a little ways back from the exhaust manifold. A flap of metal had bent outward, leaving a hole in the pipe that will accept two fingers. Ouch! No wonder it was loud!

Conditions were literally PERFECT! It was a little cold out, but the dirt was moist, and traction couldn’t have been any better. I drove about 120 miles round trip, and rode a total of about 5 or 6 miles of dirt road. Kinda bummed me out. I’ll have to post a pick of the cracked pipe when I pull the thing off the bike later.
Peter Haan

Trad climber
San Francisco, CA
Dec 25, 2010 - 07:46pm PT
Peter Haan

Trad climber
San Francisco, CA
Dec 25, 2010 - 07:49pm PT
And our Ole Pal Ann Richards!! RIP.
The Larry

climber
Moab, UT
Dec 25, 2010 - 08:04pm PT

Boy, was my girlfriend pissed!
Lee Bow

Trad climber
wet island
Dec 25, 2010 - 08:20pm PT
Larry that is one of the funniest thing I've seen in years!

I pulled a burnout in my Dad's stock car while it was still in the garage.
I was five...
Lucky I lived to see six!
Wack

climber
Dazevue
Dec 25, 2010 - 11:19pm PT

The Memorial Day Weekend ride to Lake Tahoe can be an adventure.
Gary

climber
Desolation Basin, Calif.
Dec 25, 2010 - 11:56pm PT
This is a great thread, some seriously weird stories. I like the living room burnout photo, I used to live in a pad like that!

Mike the Bike at the Isle of Man.
Gary

climber
Desolation Basin, Calif.
Dec 25, 2010 - 11:59pm PT
Maybe this is getting OT, but this is an awesome machine:

Chinchen

climber
Way out there....
Dec 26, 2010 - 12:07am PT
That is so not O.T.! Nice one!
I spent about $500 restoring my 78 Honda. Did all of the work myself. Paint, seat, mechanics...
jtlocal

Trad climber
Joshua Tree
Dec 26, 2010 - 12:09am PT
That 69 bobber is sweet.
dogtown

Trad climber
JackAssVille, Wyoming
Dec 26, 2010 - 01:43am PT

I road it today.kind cool out!
Rokrover

Trad climber
SB, CA
Dec 26, 2010 - 07:55am PT
Nice G50 there, Gary.

Virgil Elings has one in his superb collection at the Solvang Motorcycle Museum in the Santa Ynez Valley http://www.motosolvang.com/

A refreshing change from the "Disney does Denmark" theme town.

If you like these classic Brit singles here are two of my favorites in the museum



My first bike was a "Hustler" and served well for getting to bush crags in Australia

The stubby boy-racer clipons had to go after one too many spills in the dirt.
Scole

Trad climber
San Diego
Dec 26, 2010 - 10:24am PT
HighTraverse

Social climber
Bay Area
Dec 26, 2010 - 07:30pm PT

My '01 FZ-1 packed for another climbing trip. I've put 18K miles on it in the 18 months since I bought it. A chilly 60 miles today down to Santa Cruz and back. Like a good dog or horse, she needs regular exercise.
Norton

Social climber
the Wastelands
Dec 26, 2010 - 08:05pm PT
Name your first three bikes?

Mine:

1968 Suzuki 200cc five speed "Avenger" two stoke

1970 Suzuki 500cc Titan two stoke

1971 Norton 750 Commando
HighTraverse

Social climber
Bay Area
Dec 26, 2010 - 08:28pm PT
1965 Yamaha 305cc road bike. Used. Drove it home in a snowstorm in Salt Lake. Beat the C@#p outta it and it never failed me. Rode it 12 months a year in Salt Lake.

Traded it in on a new
1968 Yamaha DT1 250 Enduro. Beat the ................. Rode it..........

Traded it in on a new
1970 Honda CB750. WOW. A wicked fast bike for its time. I rode the c#$p outta it and it never failed me. Handling wasn't so good....especially over 100 mph. My longest non-stop ride was 700 miles which I did a couple of times in different directions. Had a Vetter full fairing on it which was a wonderful addition. Packed my toolbox on it and emigrated to California in '72. Sold it in '78 at 80K miles and the twit who bought it totaled it within the week.

New 1978 Yamaha XS-750 triple, shaft drive, cast wheels. The first bike I had with decent handling. Had a Vetter half fairing. The shaft drive was sweet when I'd gotten tired of chain maintenance every 500 miles and replacement every 4000 miles. Ran well but I stopped riding. Sold it when I found my riding skills were getting rusty.

And now my '01 FZ1, bought in the summer of '09. This is an AWESOME bike. An all around great bike for riding fast (don't ask and I won't tell) and far. 20 years of motorcycle development has made a huge difference. Longest day I've done is Los Gatos to Anaheim, 400 miles in 7 hours with rain starting at Grapevine and snow over the pass. One gas stop along the way. Could easily have gone to San Diego. 50K miles and she still runs like new.

I still lust after a 750 Commando.
FRUMY

Trad climber
SHERMAN OAKS,CA
Dec 26, 2010 - 10:34pm PT
first three bikes + 1
1965 bridgestone 90
1967 yamaha yds3 250
1971 norton commando
1970 honda 750 KO & I still have it.
Norton

Social climber
the Wastelands
Dec 27, 2010 - 10:25am PT
These guys can ride:
Fogarty

climber
BITD
Dec 27, 2010 - 12:59pm PT
My 2003 Road King Clasic my 40th Birthday Gift to me, for my 50th I want to restore a 1960 BSA

Minerals

Social climber
The Deli
Dec 27, 2010 - 02:13pm PT
No bueno!!!





Anyone seen a pipe crack like this? I didn’t even hit a rock. Talk about a 500cc Japanese vibrator...

Chester can fix it!
Norton

Social climber
the Wastelands
Dec 27, 2010 - 02:26pm PT
Locker met the nicest person on a Honda.
HighTraverse

Trad climber
Bay Area
Dec 27, 2010 - 02:55pm PT
So I dug out my old "proof I really did that s@#t pictures":

305 Yamaha ready for Salt Lake to Tetons ride. Cotton sleeping bag? check. Plastic tarp tent? check. Plastic rain suit? check. Cotton shirt and Levis? check. Canteen? check. Camera? check. Cowboy boots? check.
Hot chick? hopefully in the Cowboy Bar.

750 Honda ready for Salt Lake to Aspen ride. Hot chick? Definitely!
Gene

Social climber
Dec 27, 2010 - 03:10pm PT
Catherine playing

Work in progress
dee ee

Mountain climber
citizen of planet Earth
Dec 27, 2010 - 06:45pm PT
Minerals, ah Reno area, I still haven't ridden up there but have heard about the awesome single tracks and the many mountain ranges to explore. If I can get up there I will contact you for a tour.
I guess that 500cc 2 stroke hits pretty hard!

Norton

Social climber
the Wastelands
Dec 27, 2010 - 09:53pm PT
Disaster Master

Social climber
Born in So-Cal, left my soul in far Nor-Cal.
Topic Author's Reply - Dec 31, 2010 - 03:08am PT
Name your first three bikes?

-50cc Suzuki, too young to remember exact model.
-yamaha QT 70 (?)
-1978 Suzuki GS 400
davidji

Social climber
CA
Dec 31, 2010 - 04:55pm PT
Lots of nice looking bikes here. Scole, your Girlie looks like it could be the best approach tool of the bunch. And it looks great in roulette green.
Scole

Trad climber
San Diego
Dec 31, 2010 - 08:46pm PT
The Tiger is the best bike I have ever owned. Its the perfect Brit bike, no Lucas electronics!
pud

climber
Sportbikeville & Yucca brevifolia
Dec 31, 2010 - 08:46pm PT
Nate and Eli, 7 & 8 yrs old, catch 'Big Air' in 30 degree temps in the open desert today.

Toker Villain

Big Wall climber
Toquerville, Utah
Dec 31, 2010 - 08:55pm PT
How do I put up X rays of my fractured spine?

I won't ride on the street any more (but make up for it with a bitchin ragtop sports car.
Nostrodomas

Trad climber
Visalia, Ca.
Dec 31, 2010 - 09:08pm PT
Me and my mistress.....lol



Scole

Trad climber
San Diego
Jan 1, 2011 - 07:50pm PT
I rode the Tiger to the Supertopo "Batholith Bash" in Montana two years ago!
wildone

climber
Troy, MT
Jan 2, 2011 - 05:41pm PT
Warning. Serious eyecandy here.

http://www.falconmotorcycles.com/
another cool page
http://art-of-motorcycles.onsugar.com/tag/Falcon?page=1

Though I'd be happy with a bone stock Triumph Daytona 675. That triple sounds so good to my ears.
Disaster Master

Social climber
Born in So-Cal, left my soul in far Nor-Cal.
Topic Author's Reply - Jan 9, 2011 - 10:44pm PT
OK, I posted this on another thread. But it is motorcycle related, so I am putting it here too...



Wierd day. I did not sleep well last night. All day a persistent fatigue has consumed me. I am on edge from new pain and growths I feel in my neck and groin.

So I made chocolate chip cookies to cope. And breakfast, bucher bacon and eggs, organic blueberry pancakes, coffe and OJ. Then this afternoon, just as I started pasta and meat sauce, the phone rang.

Actually, Ruth's phone rang. She had just left for the store, and left her cell.

It kept ringing, then my phone too. "What the hell?" It was our boss at the yoga studio. THe web schedule said Ruth was off. But the board at work said she was on. The owner was in San Fran and could not make it. Everyone else was not answering. "Crap!"

I tried to start the Harley, my only availible ride. No go. I run back inside and stir the pasta. Maybe the bike flooded.

I run out and try again. It fires. But the choke is broke. I wedge a pebble in to hold it open and run back to the stove. As I stir I call the boss.

"You find anyone?"

"NO, Damn, what now?"

"I'll go start the class and leave a note for Ruth."

"Really?"

"Well, f*#k, someone has to get there." I hung up and tested the pasta. Two more minutes. THe gloves were in the truck and I forgot my warm jacket as I puled on my leathers, Drained the pasta and stirred it into the sauce. "Good enough."

Helmet, glasses, out to the bike.I flick the stone out of the choke and blast off coughing. THe cold engine makes me cringe. 'yah, boy!" On the freeway and up past the limit. It feels good to do something silly and dangerous again. It is cold!

I roar in front of the studio and rush in in a shiver. Suprise greets me. "Let's do this thing!" I shout as my helmet comes off. I grab a towell, the mike and some water. Off to the room.

It is full. Good grief. I strip right there out of my leathers down to the shorts I had put on at home to save time. "You get the full Humphrey tonight, I guess." I launch into an impromto act, yoga, stand-up, corrections and philosophy spew from my mouth for 90 minutes in the 100+ degree room. 'It's Showtime!'
I end with a gasp. Ruth arived but I had continued. Talk about jumping into the pool. I have not taught for months and was afraid I could not. I forgot a few things. Just laughed it off and went on.

I am tired!

Ruth is still there. She is coaching for the demonstration / comp in Stockton next week.

Whew!
pud

climber
Sportbikeville & Yucca brevifolia
Jan 9, 2011 - 10:55pm PT
Nice DM !

I was out in full leathers for a couple hours yesterday and it was coooooold !

Now that it's warming up, maybe you'll get more Saddle time on that big V-Twin?
dogtown

Trad climber
JackAssVille, Wyoming
Jan 9, 2011 - 10:56pm PT
I just finished it. Did all the work myself. All the sheet metal, Paint, electrical and assemble it. It is 125hp and 125 foot pounds of torque. Six speed trans. 110 cubic inch. Super f*#king fast!!!!

It is 4-Sale.

DT.


Minerals

Social climber
The Deli
Jan 19, 2011 - 06:37pm PT
That’s a piece of work, Dogtown! Nice!

Pud, looks like your kids are having lots of fun.


Hey Dee, cool pics there! Riding to granite-climbing in So Cal? Looks like fun. Does the volcanic-looking crater in your second pic have a name? Mojave area, right? Rocky!

I think it was vibration that cracked the pipe on my 500. Got it welded up and it seems fine. Went out on Friday and again yesterday. Oh, what fun! I love that bike. I had an absolute blast yesterday and rode lots and lots of single-track. You should come on out, if you ever get the chance. The conditions were so good yesterday, but a little slippery on Friday (snow and mud).


Yesterday:












Still buzzin’ from yesterday’s ride. Dirt bikes are so much freakin’ FUN!!!

Gary

climber
Desolation Basin, Calif.
Jan 19, 2011 - 07:48pm PT
rokrover, thanks for the cool link, I'm going to that museum!
xtrmecat

Big Wall climber
Kalispell, Montanagonia
Jan 19, 2011 - 09:54pm PT
Latest ride is an 04 Ultra. 103 ci, custom almost everything motor wise. I used to build motors for a living. Sweet little ride, very very fast for a bagger. Slightly hard on tires though.


It's the teal one on the left side of my wife, she's standing in front of our previous bike. First three bikes, all honda's and from the 60's

Honda 50 step through,
90 trail step through
CL 90 street

Then I hit puberty.

Burly Bob
pud

climber
Sportbikeville & Yucca brevifolia
Jan 20, 2011 - 10:57am PT
My two boys are entering thier first Desert Race this Saturday.
Norton

Social climber
the Wastelands
Jan 20, 2011 - 11:04am PT
Dogtown, wow you did a great job building that bike!

Can you tell me what motor you put in there, S&S? or what, and did you do all the

electrics from stretch yourself or buy a harness?

Very cool!
norton
Chinchen

climber
Way out there....
Jan 20, 2011 - 11:30am PT
Anyone want to buy a bomber vintage Cafe jacket?

Disaster Master

Social climber
Born in So-Cal, left my soul in far Nor-Cal.
Topic Author's Reply - Jan 20, 2011 - 11:35am PT
What size?
Chinchen

climber
Way out there....
Jan 20, 2011 - 11:39am PT
Ummmmm....its a 48. Its such heavy leather, made in san fran and has thick elbow and shoulder padding. Plus all the patches are killer.
J
davidji

Social climber
CA
Jan 23, 2011 - 02:16am PT
davidji

Social climber
CA
Jan 23, 2011 - 02:59am PT
Scole, I search Craigslist for a Tiger 955 for awhile. Seems like a great all-around bike. They only made them in one color I don't like, silver, and pretty much all the local ones I found were silver. Oh well.
this just in

climber
north fork
Jan 29, 2011 - 10:18am PT
I'm going to Oakland Supercross today. Go Stewart, go Windham. Any other tacos going?
Scole

Trad climber
San Diego
Jan 29, 2011 - 10:42am PT
Davidji

The new Tigers are different. The bike has been redesigned to be more of a sport touring bike, more upright, higher gearing, not the same bike.

Mine is a 2001, the next to last year for the dual sport Tiger. I have considered selling it, as I don't like freeway riding, so if you are interested email me.

Scole
Norton

Social climber
the Wastelands
Feb 4, 2011 - 09:43pm PT
Nine time world champion Mike Hailwood!

dee ee

Mountain climber
citizen of planet Earth
Feb 4, 2011 - 10:42pm PT
I will be watching!
H

Mountain climber
there and back again
Feb 5, 2011 - 12:04am PT
Tim thats one beatiful bike.
Love the fringe Fred.
Chinchen I am interested in the Jacket. PM with the price.

In the 80' I had a Honda Magna; a fast bike, then I went for a Yamaha Verago Vtwin Harley wanna be. In the 90' I got a 1974 Sportster because I could not afford a real Harley. Sold it because the piece of sh#t broke down all the time. Then stopped riding because I would turn into a maniac and almost killed myself too many times on the hwy pushing 100 mph.

After a while I missed riding and bought a Yamaha Maxim 500, a fun bike for around town. But I wanted a bike I could cruise so I also have a 1975 Goldwing. It needs some loving and smokes when I start it up. But its fun. I am going to try and start cleaning it up.

Here is a link to some beautiful bikes:
Motorrad_Oldies_1_-_DF6JL_.pps
I tried to download it to this thread but it was too big. If you can't open this link PM me and I'll send you the attachment. They range from the turn of the century to some of the coolest pristine oldies around.

Great thread. I really enjoyed checking out everyones bikes. Definitely on topic!
gonamok

climber
sez me
Feb 5, 2011 - 05:12am PT
first 3:
'72 Kawasaki 100 Trailmaster
'85 Honda CB 500
'89 Honda 750 nighthawk

now i ride a 2005 yamaha V star 1100 punched out to 1250 with intake and carb work - its happiest over 85mph, real solid on the road and comfy and reliable for a v twin.

I was torn between that and a sick Yamaha 650 street racer - both about the same price new. I got the cruiser, figuring Id wrap the racer around a tree sooner or later - old age and high speed is a bad combo. The wife was plenty relieved when I came home with the putt-putt.
Norton

Social climber
the Wastelands
Feb 5, 2011 - 10:53am PT
In 1951 Geoff Duke was in a class of his own. Double world champion that year!

dee ee

Mountain climber
citizen of planet Earth
Feb 5, 2011 - 02:26pm PT
Speaking of 1951........
Here are a few I have owned, including a 1951 BSA Bantem 125cc.


HighTraverse

Trad climber
Bay Area
Feb 7, 2011 - 12:35pm PT
That's some Beezer.
Yesterday at the Gap I was lusting over a Yamaha RZ500, V4 two stroke about 85 hp. In very nice condition and sort of for sale.
Good thing I can't afford it.
I drooled the rest of the afternoon.
http://www.rzrd500.com/rzstory.html
Norton

Social climber
the Wastelands
Feb 18, 2011 - 09:03pm PT
1948 Norton, 500cc single cylinder
Norton

Social climber
the Wastelands
Feb 21, 2011 - 03:41pm PT
Damn this looks high

climber
Temecula, CA
Mar 3, 2011 - 11:56am PT
Jay Wood

Trad climber
Fairfax, CA
Mar 3, 2011 - 12:11pm PT
Not me, but posting for my bud.

He said the wheelie was @ 100mph
guido

Trad climber
Santa Cruz/New Zealand/South Pacific
Mar 7, 2011 - 05:44pm PT
Maybe it is time to get out there!

Dream Rangers

http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=vksdBSVAM6g
micronut

Trad climber
fresno, ca
Mar 7, 2011 - 06:02pm PT
I commute on the BMW 650 Challenge X. It likes to git muddy on weekends too. I absolutely love this bike. I look forward to my "drive" home on the days I ride.
FRUMY

Trad climber
SHERMAN OAKS,CA
Mar 7, 2011 - 08:21pm PT
Norton

Social climber
the Wastelands
May 3, 2011 - 05:41pm PT
Bob Dylan on his Triumph, with feet down looking like a rookie.

Chris McNamara

SuperTopo staff member
May 3, 2011 - 07:11pm PT
SuperHawk for a SuperTaco guy

pud

climber
Sportbikeville & Yucca brevifolia
May 3, 2011 - 07:24pm PT
Nice bike Chris.

I'm kind of partial to big twins myself.

davidji

Social climber
CA
Jul 2, 2011 - 10:14pm PT
Norton

Social climber
the Wastelands
Jul 2, 2011 - 10:20pm PT
Locker, I suppose I should say I am sorry about you selling your bike.

But I am not.

Because it is what you wanted to do.

So, congratulations instead!
davidji

Social climber
CA
Jul 2, 2011 - 10:22pm PT
Sorry to hear that locker! Would a different bike work better for you?
Norton

Social climber
the Wastelands
Jul 2, 2011 - 10:46pm PT
And so shall it be.

Koombaya
Norton

Social climber
the Wastelands
Jul 2, 2011 - 10:48pm PT
Perhaps Locker would be more interested in a scooter?

zip

Trad climber
pacific beach, ca
Jul 2, 2011 - 11:12pm PT

CBR1100XX Blackbird for short distance sport touring
C14 for longer distance sport touring
RC51 for when ya just gotta pull a wheelie on the freeway at 75 mph
KLR650 for putting around town and a little off roading
Reilly

Mountain climber
The Other Monrovia- CA
Jul 11, 2011 - 04:13pm PT
I thought Evel Knievel died?

Disaster Master

Social climber
Born in So-Cal, left my soul in far Nor-Cal.
Topic Author's Reply - Jul 11, 2011 - 05:03pm PT
I am so sad.
My body hurts
so bad i can't.
And it is so nice out!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
dee ee

Mountain climber
citizen of planet Earth
Jul 14, 2011 - 12:08am PT
On March 17th I rode 1080 miles on my KTM 450 EXC in 21hours and 10 minutes. I converted it to a street bike for the occasion.
Tustin, up 395, through Panamint Valley, Lone Pine, Bishop, Benton, Tonopah, down into Death Val. via Scotty's Castle, Baker, Amboy, 29 Palms, Cottonwood, Indio, Ortega Highway and home.


davidji

Social climber
CA
Jul 29, 2011 - 05:03am PT
dee ee wrote: "On March 17th I rode 1080 miles on my KTM 450 EXC in 21hours and 10 minutes. I converted it to a street bike for the occasion.
Tustin, up 395, through Panamint Valley, Lone Pine, Bishop, Benton, Tonopah, down into Death Val. via Scotty's Castle, Baker, Amboy, 29 Palms, Cottonwood, Indio, Ortega Highway and home."

Cool! Isn't that like 4 oil change intervals on that bike?
davidji

Social climber
CA
Jul 29, 2011 - 05:04am PT
Last Tuesday in northern California
gimmeslack

Trad climber
VA
Jul 29, 2011 - 08:09am PT
Started here...


A few bikes later, arrived here...


SofCookay

climber
Jul 29, 2011 - 10:41am PT
We ride.

dee ee

Mountain climber
citizen of planet Earth
Jul 29, 2011 - 02:00pm PT
Davidji, yes I probably should have changed the oil mid ride. The engine had a hard knock after and has been at the mechanics since for a top and bottom end rebuild!
FRUMY

Trad climber
SHERMAN OAKS,CA
Jul 29, 2011 - 02:13pm PT
Wow that is a pretty bad statement. 1080 miles and it has a knock & needs a complete rebuild.
Sell it and get a 2 stroke. I can't believe I'm going to say this, or if you have to have a 4 stroke get a honda - kawasaki- yamaha.
dee ee

Mountain climber
citizen of planet Earth
Jul 29, 2011 - 06:20pm PT
It was just the straw that broke the camels back. It had ~240 hours and over 9000 miles on it. That is a roughly average lifespan for one of these. It is the best singletrack and off road bike that can be easily plated in CA.
ericdehaven

Sport climber
los angeles
Jul 29, 2011 - 07:07pm PT
Cool thread.
Funny that I know a few of the posters here from Racing and not climbing..
Anyway,
We are a family of racers and bike nuts.
Here are a few pics to check out. These are of my 17yr old Son Austin who if you follow road racing was the 2010 AMA Pro Supersport National Champion and now races full time in Europe in World Superstock 600, and just did a one off at Laguna Seca Last weekend in AMA for a Daytona Sportbike team.
If we are not climbing, we are racing!

This is from 2010 AMA
A little something from Europe, Assen 2011
and for the bimmer fans
pud

climber
Sportbikeville & Yucca brevifolia
Jul 29, 2011 - 07:45pm PT
I think that #57 BMW holds a couple of track records at Willow Springs and Streets of Willow.
1:20 and 1:13 repectively, with Jeremy Toye piloting.

Eric,
Your son has a lot of talent and dedication. I hope he has a long and successful racing carreer. He sure is on the right track!

Here's a spin around Laguna Seca on my R1 w/MIA on board ;)

http://www.youtube.com/user/steepfriends?feature=mhee#p/a/u/0/SJU58ahg1EE
ericdehaven

Sport climber
los angeles
Aug 1, 2011 - 03:11pm PT
Hey Pud..
Like I said before, funny how a few of us know each other not through climbing.
Do you know the Lauritzen's? (AFM, WERA, AMA peeps) they are big climbers as well.

Anyway, you are correct on Jeremys bike.
That pic was Austin testing the "B" bike which became the bike Steve Rapp is racing in AMA this year. Jeremy has the overall and 1000cc record with a 13'7 at Streets, Jimmy Wood beat Austin's previous 600cc record with a 14:2 (Austin had a 14:7) and we still hold the 125cc record and it was set before the repaving at a 19:4. But all the other records above were after the repave and straightening of the kink before T10.

If you are still climbing you should come join us one weekend. Austin is back in LA now for the rest of the year and we try to climb most every weekend
E
Reilly

Mountain climber
The Other Monrovia- CA
Aug 1, 2011 - 10:24pm PT
My wife saw a patient the other day who is 80. She is still working. Her 84 year
old hubby takes her to work and picks her up on their motorcycle!

I said - "I hope he doesn't go on the freeway!"
Wife - "Freeway? Pffft! They went up and back via the Alcan on the cycle last year!"

Of course the wife didn't ask what kind of bike it is. :-( Gotta be a Beemer.

wstmrnclmr

Trad climber
Bolinas, CA
Aug 2, 2011 - 09:41pm PT
In the early 70's, Bolinas school in West Marin had a motorcycle shop. In grade school! Probably the first and last of it's kind. In 71' the legendary Dick Mann of Richmond and the AMA champion at the time, brought out a BSA and flat tracked the school field. Dick is in the middle with the bike. I'm kneeling with the helmet.
ericdehaven

Sport climber
los angeles
Aug 3, 2011 - 01:26pm PT
Man I miss the days before over-lawyered insurance requirements..
Can you imaging what it would take to get a flattracker on a school field these days.

Speaking of dirttrack, for you Socal'ers. Gene (Romero) is putting on the AMA Pro flattrack finals Oct 15th at the Pomona County Fairgrounds and if your a motorcycle fan and have never seen a race in person.. Its a blast and a really classic and great venue.. The other cool thing is this event usually brings out many Pro racers and famous riders from the past so its a great time to meet and mingle.

climber bob

Social climber
maine
Sep 15, 2011 - 08:40am PT
Damn this looks high

Trad climber
Temecula, CA
Jan 28, 2012 - 06:02pm PT

Yes.
pud

climber
Sportbikeville & Yucca brevifolia
Jan 28, 2012 - 07:12pm PT
DTLH,
Mind if I take that thing out for a few laps ?
:)
the Fet

climber
Tu-Tok-A-Nu-La
Jan 28, 2012 - 07:14pm PT
I haven't had a street bike since 1992 or so. I like my danger in my control. I had too many close calls from idiots while on a bike. And a few car accidents caused by other people where I'd hate to think what woulda happened on a bike. I may get a street bike some day but try to ride it in out of the way places.

My current dirt bike is a 2004 YZ250 2 smoke. Love it. From the moment I first got on it it felt like part of me. Nice and light with LOTS of power. Riding in the dunes is a blast. I've got a short track on my property and want to build some FMX style ramps. FUN.
yosemite 5.9

climber
santa cruz
Jan 28, 2012 - 10:58pm PT
Popped a wheelie once giving too much throttle when the bike was still leaned over coming out of a turn. The smaller diameter of the rear tire on its side lifted the front end a lot faster than I expected. This was on a Suzuki Bandit 1200 with 100 hp. It was a steal at $7,500 new in 2001.
I put a jet kit in it with a better air filter, advanced the timing, and removed the smog junk. I love the Michelin Sport Pilot tires. They stick well for me like my climbing shoes, though I suppose there are stickier tires out there.

I should have known better coming out of the turn. Luckily I had given my myself an extra lane to work with and landed it and turned it before going off the road. I have read many books and articles about motorcycling, but I don't remember reading about this particular effect of the smaller diameter of the rear tire giving so much more lift. It was a dramatic difference.

I don't agree with the idea of moving towards the center line when approaching a blind turn to see what is coming around the corner. I prefer to stay in the right tire track early when entering a blind corner.

This habit has saved me a few times in the Santa Cruz mountains when the oncoming driver took his share of the road out of the middle. I haven't yet had an oncoming driver take all of my lane, so why should I make things worse by getting near the center line to begin with?

Yesterday I ordered one those new Leatt-Brace STX neck braces for sport riders who wear leathers with a hump on the back. The review in Motorcycle Consumer News was very favorable. There is internet site that shows how well it restricts neck bending at

http://www.webbikeworld.com/r4/leatt-stx-brace/review.htm

The Leatt-Brace internet site has problems. You have to call to get guidance on the correct size if you are interested.

Acceleration is fun, but I love going through turns in the mountains. The sides of my tires wear out before the middle does. It's kinda funny that way. I only start my ride when the sun is coming up and I am off the road by 8 AM. Call it risk management. Cars scare me. I would rather rise before dawn to avoid them.

TGT

Social climber
So Cal
Jan 28, 2012 - 11:11pm PT
Posted this back in 10

I have a 68, R69S pregnant cow tank, with two sets of full Wixom fiberglass, upper and lower, and two sets of Harley fiberglass bags, VW tail lights in the shed that needs a good home if someone is interested in a restoration project.

I've been told the most lucrative option would be to part it out, but I can't quite bring myself to do that.

It found a good home and I made out quite well on the sale. I'll post photos when the new owner progresses with the restoration.

BTW Peter H. the last photo in your post is an R60, not an R69S. The tell is the shape of the valve cover.
Nohea

Trad climber
Living Outside the Statist Quo
Jan 29, 2012 - 07:54pm PT
My 3rd and final bike...out of the USN I saved up $2500 and bought a honda 250, then the classic passion was satisfied with 69 Electroglide, lost that one to the gods of small biz and finally here's my current and final HD...the 2011 Dyna Superglide Custom




we just spent some QT together, its great to hear it just puttin as I slide it into 6th doing 60mph. Stock pipes will soon go.

Aloha, its a great day for riding!
will
dee ee

Mountain climber
citizen of planet Earth
Jan 29, 2012 - 08:57pm PT
Near El Gran Trono Blanco.


Cole

Trad climber
los angeles
Dec 4, 2013 - 02:35am PT
climber bob

Social climber
maine
Dec 4, 2013 - 06:53am PT
climber bob

Social climber
maine
Dec 4, 2013 - 07:02am PT
climber bob

Social climber
maine
Dec 4, 2013 - 07:05am PT
speelyei

Trad climber
Mohave County Arizona
Dec 4, 2013 - 08:25am PT



First bike, only bike, 86 xr 250. Got it to prowl around the desert, found out the MVD will let you put a plate on pretty much anything.
davidji

Social climber
CA
Jan 17, 2014 - 03:25pm PT
Nice Versys climber bob. I like the Kawi green color.

Here's mine:
Cragar

climber
MSLA - MT
Feb 10, 2014 - 04:50pm PT
A couple motos and and I taking a brake on some ridgeline in W-MT. I never thought I'd like the moto as much as I do... Getting a top-end done as I type, looking forward to a moto near a climbing zone outside of Butte America, the middle of next month!


the Fet

climber
Tu-Tok-A-Nu-La
Feb 10, 2014 - 05:20pm PT
Anyone do any trials riding? Seems like a natural crossover for climbers. I saw a comp a Donner Ski Ranch (probably posted about it earlier in this thread). Impressive!

Cragar

climber
MSLA - MT
Feb 10, 2014 - 05:40pm PT
Not yet. We have a fair amount of miles of trials-worthy terrain and if I can get hook buddy to go in on one I'd like to give'r.
Reilly

Mountain climber
The Other Monrovia- CA
Feb 10, 2014 - 06:36pm PT
ClimberBob, thanks a lot, now I've drooled all over my keyboard.

Heard a teaser on NPR today about the 'Motorcycle Girl Gangs of Morocco."*
Sheesh, even NPR is going salacious?

*Didn't get to hear it.
Cole

Trad climber
los angeles
Mar 1, 2014 - 02:36pm PT
Video I made of my first race last weekend out in Johnson Valley. Was a lot of fun!

[Click to View YouTube Video]
John M

climber
Mar 1, 2014 - 03:03pm PT
Classic noob video Cole.

"I Got this"

DENIED!

Classic. LOL

Young bones required. Or old tough leathery ones.
Nohea

Trad climber
Living Outside the Statist Quo
Mar 1, 2014 - 05:15pm PT
That is a pretty enjoyable vid, I went wide screen. Way to enjoy life on too wheels!
Reminded me of my youth, throttling back and that dam almost ate it feeling.

Aloha,
Will


Demand the recount!
sangoma

Trad climber
south africa
Mar 1, 2014 - 06:10pm PT
packed and ready for a five day solo climbing trip
ms55401

Trad climber
minneapolis, mn
Jul 18, 2014 - 06:54pm PT
super-noob here, just got my motorcycle permit

so, I really want to get a 1200 touring bike, because that's what attracted to me to cycling in the first place: going on long rides in the Dakotas, with a little bit of camping here and there

I've only ridden my friend's 500 cc bike, and I feel confident on it. But I'm worried that 1200 is "too big" and, y'know, ahm ghana die, or at the very least, drop the bike at some point

so my question is this: should I get a "starter" bike of around 500 cc, ride it for a few seasons, put a couple 1,000 miles under my belt, and then upgrade to the 1200? Or should I just get the 1200?
HighTraverse

Trad climber
Bay Area
Jul 18, 2014 - 07:05pm PT
But I'm worried that 1200 is "too big" and, y'know, ahm ghana die,
Very likely.
I've ridden a LONG time and about 150K miles on 5 bikes from 250cc to 1000cc. Have been very lucky to not have a serious crash.
I've done long distance riding/camping on a 305cc with a girlfriend on the back.

Start small. There are great machines of all types in the 450 - 600 cc range. When you've outgrown it then move up.

These days 800cc is all you need for nearly any single rider purpose. I've got 1000cc and never tapped it's full potential. 130 mph has been fast enough for me and it'll do 35 more.

Things can go wrong in a big hurry. Take a good motorcycle safety course, if you haven't.
Norton

Social climber
the Wastelands
Jul 18, 2014 - 07:10pm PT
I started out on a 250 for one year

made every mistake possible, including dropping it multiple times

by then it was so beat up and light I could easily pick it back up

then I got a 500, things were much faster, heavier, got in trouble more

after a year I got a 750 and rode it for three more years

now, after 40 years and 19 motorcycles I think I went about it the right way

no doubt some others will disagree but yes I think 1200 is too big, heavy, and powerful for a brand new rider

start out with a much smaller, lighter bike, then after a year start moving on up

really the biggest bike for a beginner might be like a nice, light, couple year old used Triumph Bonneville 865, like this 2010 with bags and windscreen


nothing wrong with a mid sized Japanese 400 either

rottingjohnny

Sport climber
mammoth lakes ca
Jul 18, 2014 - 07:15pm PT
I swear i saw the The Chief rocketing north 2 days ago , on hiway 6...Then the CHP heading south..? rj
Dapper Dan

Trad climber
Menlo Park
Jul 28, 2014 - 11:31pm PT
My girlfriend and I did a 5,500 mile ride this summer from our house near San Francisco out to Chicago. We rode on my little Honda Magna V4 . Overall it was a really great 17 days on the road, and no speeding tickets ! Here's a few pics ....










Cole

Trad climber
los angeles
Sep 17, 2014 - 04:49pm PT
Rained here in Joshua Tree big time. So of course I had to go for a ride...

[Click to View YouTube Video]
kev

climber
A pile of dirt.
Sep 17, 2014 - 05:25pm PT
no doubt some others will disagree but yes I think 1200 is too big, heavy, and powerful for a brand new ridere

I pity da fool who disagrees with that Norton.

nothing wrong with a mid sized Japanese 400 either

Like an old FZR400 maybe?

OR how about an RGV500 gamma?

OR even better - a TZ250 that someone has flim-flamed the registration and thus has it tagged. Wait that might be bad like the 1200 though ;)
Spider Savage

Mountain climber
The shaggy fringe of Los Angeles
Sep 17, 2014 - 06:38pm PT
This is it:

http://deuscustoms.com/about


The good stuff beyond good. They can turn a $3000 used bike into a $30,000 masterpiece.

Good t-shirts too.
PAUL SOUZA

Trad climber
Central Valley, CA
Sep 17, 2014 - 06:54pm PT
Back in 2007 I bought my first motorcycle, a 2003 Yamaha R6, and my life was forever changed. I did 7 trackdays on it....Buttonwillow, Willow Spings (Big Willow track), Cali Speedway, Fontana, and Reno-Fernley. I sold the bike to buy a house, but later got laid off, and never bought that house.



After consolidating some hobbies, I picked up my new girlfriend....a 2004 Ducati 749s. After a bunch of trips, I realized I should have gone for a sport touring bikes...specifically the Ducati Multistrada 1200s. But, those are well out of my price range.

I've combined my passion for climbing and hiking with riding and now I do "ride and hikes" and "ride and climbs." What could be better?





In the next week, I'll be picking up a 2000 BMW R1100R from a buddy for cheap considering it needs a new clutch, battery, and fork seals all of which I can replace myself. I pretty stoked! My big dream with it is to do a 49-state motorcycle trip when I'm done with grad school.


I've been trying to find people who share some similar ambitions as I do. If you're that person, please hit me up and let's ride and climb! Cheers!
Nkane

Trad climber
San Francisco, USA
Sep 17, 2014 - 07:43pm PT
My yolobike (with a passenger)
Cole

Trad climber
los angeles
Sep 17, 2014 - 07:57pm PT
Sweet rides dudes! I'm just too scared to even think about a street bike...
Dapper Dan

Trad climber
Menlo Park
Sep 17, 2014 - 08:29pm PT
nice work stich , pics?
pud

climber
Sportbikeville & Yucca brevifolia
Sep 17, 2014 - 08:57pm PT
WBraun

climber
Sep 17, 2014 - 10:26pm PT
Good job improvising and putting the thing together stich.

HighTraverse

Trad climber
Bay Area
Sep 18, 2014 - 10:25am PT
This why I always say and actually do, dress like you are going down, each and every time you get on your rigs and head out onto the road
What Chief said.
EVERY time. I dress up even riding a mile to the neighborhood barbeque.

and DON'T DRINK/smoke and ride.
You need all your senses, judgement and reflexes at full capacity.

Not a good idea to ride angry either. Pissed off at your wife/boss?
CHILL a while before you saddle up. Go for a walk. Lie down in the grass and look up at the sky.

nice work stitch.
PAUL SOUZA

Trad climber
Central Valley, CA
Sep 18, 2014 - 10:54am PT
I recently bought a pair of the Dainese Air Drake textile pants. Very nice! I love the Dainese stuff.

I was looking at the touring gear from Dainese and that stuff is more than their leathers! $1,200 for a touring jacket?!? Holy shet!

Hey Chief, I do most of the maintenance myself, other than valves and ECU stuff. When I decide to get the infamous stalling issue fixed, I'm going to take it to Desmoto in SF.

I won't be selling the Duc anytime soon. "The Duc gets em wet." ;)
PAUL SOUZA

Trad climber
Central Valley, CA
Sep 18, 2014 - 03:35pm PT
Jeremy,

Yeah, I know Ishu. I would always stop in at the Chevron in Prather where he worked. Does he still work there? I haven't seen him in quite some time.

I want to go to Rich Oliver's Mystery School, which is in Auberry. I have friends who do a lot of trackdays and race and they all rave about his school. I'd love to back the Duc into a corner.... ;)

Those 500cc 2-stroke GP bikes are nuts! Fierce!

I just found "Faster" and "Fastest" on Netflix!
PAUL SOUZA

Trad climber
Central Valley, CA
Sep 18, 2014 - 05:04pm PT
Jeremy, do you live in the Fresno area? I've been trying to find like-minded people to ride with.
Dapper Dan

Trad climber
Menlo Park
Sep 21, 2014 - 02:55pm PT
A great ride over the Sierra and back yesterday ...






edit: Hey Paul I PM'd you about possibly riding ... I'm not in the Central Valley but I can get over there pretty quick :)
HighTraverse

Trad climber
Bay Area
Sep 21, 2014 - 03:08pm PT
Hey there Dapper Dan
I rode from the Placerville area up the paved logging roads to 88, over Carson Pass, through Markeeville and back over Ebbets pass to the Bay area 2 weekends ago.
Dapper Dan

Trad climber
Menlo Park
Sep 21, 2014 - 04:20pm PT
Let's plan a ride High Traverse ! I'm looking to get one more Sierra ride in before winter...
throwpie

Trad climber
Berkeley
Sep 21, 2014 - 04:53pm PT
The '78 Kawi
throwpie

Trad climber
Berkeley
Sep 21, 2014 - 04:55pm PT
The '77 RD400
throwpie

Trad climber
Berkeley
Sep 21, 2014 - 04:56pm PT
The 2000 ZR7 Kawi
throwpie

Trad climber
Berkeley
Sep 21, 2014 - 04:57pm PT
The '70 Bultaco Matador
tradmanclimbs

Ice climber
Pomfert VT
Sep 21, 2014 - 07:03pm PT
thropi. i had a 79 RD400
HighTraverse

Trad climber
Bay Area
Sep 21, 2014 - 07:09pm PT
Yamaha RD series: 350 and 400
Sweet machines.
A good friend rode his RD350 from Salt Lake to Maine and back one summer. Never skipped a beat.
Norton

Social climber
quitcherbellyachin
Sep 21, 2014 - 07:15pm PT


My 1973 Norton 850 Commando Roadster
throwpie

Trad climber
Berkeley
Sep 21, 2014 - 08:06pm PT
My neighbor's 160
throwpie

Trad climber
Berkeley
Sep 21, 2014 - 08:11pm PT
RD's are a trip for sure. They are fast, but I don't have the nerve to air it out...6th gear up in the powerband is terrifying. I prefer the quick aspect. Running up a slight uphill curvy grade on the pipe is where these bikes are at their best.
throwpie

Trad climber
Berkeley
Sep 21, 2014 - 08:15pm PT
My buddy C.O. and his Honda Six
Srbphoto

climber
Kennewick wa
Sep 21, 2014 - 08:19pm PT
That Bultaco is sweet.
PAUL SOUZA

Trad climber
Central Valley, CA
Sep 23, 2014 - 10:27am PT
It's always an awesome moment when a dream begins to become reality. I'm planning a cross-country motorcycle trip for when I'm done with school and to bag as many of the 50-state high peaks along the way.

I scored a helluv a deal from a good buddy. A 2000 BMW R1100R. She just needs a new clutch, fork seals, a battery, and a good detailing. It came with the BMW hard case panniers too. And yes, I know what a clutch replacement involves. Ugh! Not looking forward to ripping the bike in half. :/

pud

climber
Sportbikeville & Yucca brevifolia
Mar 14, 2015 - 09:30am PT
stonefly

Social climber
Alameda, California
Mar 14, 2015 - 09:57am PT
My ride:
davidji

Social climber
CA
Jun 28, 2017 - 10:57pm PT
I'll give this a bump. How did that R1100R work for you Paul Souza?

The R1200R might be my single favorite bike I've owned. Though when the pace picks up, I'm still not used to the front end feel.

I've ridden Monitor Pass a few times and never seen that Monitor Pass sign in your photo. I even looked for it at what seemed like the top last weekend. Oh well.

Last weekend the Sonora Pass sign on the south side of the road (which I have in old photos) wasn't there either, though it may have just been buried under snow. That's never been the issue when I've gone over Monitor Pass...


Nick Danger

Ice climber
Arvada, CO
Jun 29, 2017 - 06:02am PT
Motorcycle threads are going to attract me like red sugar water attracts hummingbirds.
My lovely bride and one of her rides:

my sportbike du jour:
I can't help but notice how little that bike looks next to me. I saw a photo of me riding it at a track day once and it looks like I was riding a mini bike. A few years ago during peak autumn foliage around here I just could not go to work and spent the whole day doing laps on the Peak-to-Peak highway between Estes Park and Golden - mid-week, no traffic, what a day!

Our local "Old guys with old bikes" club
ydpl8s

Trad climber
Santa Monica, California
Jun 29, 2017 - 07:32am PT
Bob, the guy on the far left, looks like an old programmer friend of mine named Paul Raab. Although, I don't think he looks that young anymore.
Nick Danger

Ice climber
Arvada, CO
Jun 29, 2017 - 07:36am PT
Scott, that is Tim Inks, younger brother of my high school riding buddy Tom Inks. Tim and his wife have done well in the oil patch and Tim rewarded himself with a barn containing about 25 old British motorcycles. His barn is like the pot of gold at the end of the rainbow.
newport

Sport climber
UK
Jun 29, 2017 - 08:23am PT
Been a while since I owned a bike- sold after writing the car off- so it was good to hire one in Ladakh last year. "No licence? No problem!"
micronut

Trad climber
Fresno/Clovis, ca
Jun 29, 2017 - 10:55am PT
Great photo newport. Looks like a grand adventure.




I call this sweet little baby the "Ocho Ocho."
KTM 525 EXC with a desert tank


She has been good to me over the past couple years and I can't wait to take her to Baja again soon.
newport

Sport climber
UK
Jun 29, 2017 - 11:09am PT
Thanks Micronut- I saw these guys earlier in the day and just hadto hire one myself!
Cragar

climber
MSLA - MT
Jun 29, 2017 - 11:12am PT
Nice rig ya got there nut!

Since you Baja, have you ever checked out the Tour of Idaho?

http://www.klim.com/news/index.ssp?postID=450

http://www.motorcyclejazz.com/TID_Route_Description.htm

I haven't done the route per se but I have done a few segments when doing other ID moto loops and all I can say is it is remote, beautiful, historical and desolate. I have a buddy with a 500 XCW kitted with GiantLoop and said the tour is his favorite N. American ride.

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