Humble Introduction

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May 3, 2009 | 07:07 PM

talotam

Thread Starter

6th Gear

Joined: Mar 2009

Posts: 14

Likes: 0

From: Newnan, Georgia

Humble Introduction

I actually joined the forum in mid-March, but wasn't sure what to say. I'd come to this forum to learn about touring, camping, and other leisure therapy for myself and my scooter. At first, I wanted to ask how to easily wire in a Zumo 550 GPS I'd purchased. I considered the fact that I was not the first to purchase and mount one of these, and, instead of posting a most-likely already asked question, did some researching through the forum's many corridors. And, I found the answer without having to ask.

I'm not exactly an FNG (F**king New Guy) to motorcycling. I had my first powered 2-wheeler in 1965 at the age of 15. It was an Allstate 50cc, which I was darned proud of. Of course, I wrecked it and Dad forbade another. Then, in Thailand in 1969, I purchased a Kawasaki 650 4-stroke. That bike was great around the country until my C.O. made an offer I couldn't refuse and stay a free man. So, that bike was donated to the U.S. Army.

In 1976, I wrapped a Suzuki around a guard rail in Easton, PA on Route 611. For all that have traveled that road, you know that 611, a bike, and local bars don't mix. Anyway, that was it for me for scooters.

Until 2005, that is. I bought a basket case V-twin. The frame was a 1957 wishbone, the engine a bored/stroked 1969, and the transmission from 1970. All other components came from wherever. Sort of like Johnny Cash's Cadillac automobile. I got the bike together and running. But, the compression was so great that I couldn't get a starter strong enough. The cylinders were equipped with dual plugs, so proper operation forbade the multiple compression releases as room didn't permit. The only way I could start the bike was kick-starting. With my old knees, I had to wear a brace to do so. Then, the brace made riding difficult. On top of that, the rigid frame was just too tough on my back.

Finally, last April, I talked with Harley Davidson representatives manning the Harley display at the Atlanta NHRA Drag Racing event. I liked the numbers and looks of the new UltraClassic. I called my wife and told her I would do something good for the evironment and get a "green" vehicle. I explained I could expect close to 55 mpg. She asked "What kind?", and I replied "2-wheeled." No amusement was returned over the phone. She only said we "have to talk."

In June, I brought up the subject with wifey again, and she stated that it was her turn to get a new car. I had purchased three trucks and one old chevy since she had gotten her last new car. So, I told her that she could get a new car before I got a new bike. But, I explained that she had to get the car before the end of June, since I had already ordered my motorcycle. Talk about daggers....

Well, today, I have my ride. And, wife has her new car. But, she won't let me drive the car and she won't ride on my bike. I guess I can live with that.

Sorry about the long story. But, maybe some of you can relate to different parts of my journey.

I will enjoy talking with all of you, and meeting you as chance permits.

Take care, and God bless...

((( btw, TALOTAM is the name of my farm. It means "Takes A Lot Of Time And Money".)))