Introduction / Sad News Simultaneously

[shanepgriffin]

Hi all. Just wanted to introduce myself as I've been patiently waiting the site issues that had prevented new members. My name is Shane and I live in Des Moines, IA.

I bought my first XS1100 this winter and have been a silent observer on the site for quite some time now. Such an awesome amount of information. My 79SF runs pretty well, but does need a carb sync to be top notch. A PO upgraded to SS brake lines, removed the octy, put inline fuel filters in, rebuilt the carbs, and upgraded to the K&N air filter. I just rebuilt the petcocks the other week. Always something to improve, but in any event, she's in average condition for a bike that is 35 years old.

Now for the sad news, Just as I was getting into this cool machine, I found out that I got a promotion that is taking me to Chicago, where it is more difficult to store a bike, and frankly, I don't ride to sit at stoplights. I'll get some pictures up here soon, but I look to keep it for about a month and get every mile I can out of it, but then will be looking to sell. I would love to have it go to someone from here who really appreciates the machine that she is.

[alaskey2]

I live in Chicago, bring your XS!!! There is nothing better than riding around the city on a Sunday morning when nobody is out. And you can't miss the epic Distinguished Gentleman's Ride in October. If you try a little, you might even be able to find someone with a garage to let you store the bike over the winter for a 6-pack of old style.

[jetmechmarty]

I spent many years living in an Atlanta bedroom community. As it grew riding a motorcycle felt like it was becoming more and more treacherous. Drivers are very aggressive and careless. I never considered actually taking a motorcycle into Atlanta. When I finally did just that a was quite surprised. I actually came across some courteous drivers. Drivers are at least aware of the continuous onslaught of pedestrians and perhaps this extends over to motorcycles. It certainly never lived up to my preconceived notions. Atlanta has places to gather with like minded people almost every night. I'm sure Chicago is the same in that regard.

Welcome aboard and congratulations on your promotion. Good luck with the motorcycle, no matter what you choose to do with it.

[shanepgriffin]

Thanks

Thanks for the insight into city riding. My preconceived notions are as yours were, and I'm probably incorrect. SWMBO has kind of made her expectations clear at this point, and since my job is uprooting us from family, I may need to make this concession initially. We'll see though. If I find a place with space, I may be able to sell the idea that "the bike isn't eating anything" and set some rules for myself about when/how I ride.

Thanks again for the welcome and tips!
SG

[shanepgriffin]

The bike made the journey!

After a few heart to heart conversations with SWMBO about my love of riding, the type of riding I like to do, and how I approach safety, the bike made it to Chicago with me. Had my first tour of Lake Shore Drive this morning and couldn't be happier that we brought her. I will miss smooth two lane highways with no cars for miles, but I'll adapt with time.

[IanDMacDonald]

Awesome! I will say, those Hi-Viz helmets DO WORK!!! Can't promise the stupid drivers will see you, but I see you.

[shanepgriffin]

High-vis

My theory with High-vis is that attentive and well meaning drivers still have an uphill battle to see us, and I want to make it simple. Those buried in their phones have no chance and I need to be prepared for that every time. Since wearing that helmet and jacket this summer, I haven't had a single left turn in front of me, and even people who probably have time to pull out wait for me to pass, almost as if saying, "yes, I see you."

[Bergman16]

My theory with High-vis is that attentive and well meaning drivers still have an uphill battle to see us, and I want to make it simple. Those buried in their phones have no chance and I need to be prepared for that every time. Since wearing that helmet and jacket this summer, I haven't had a single left turn in front of me, and even people who probably have time to pull out wait for me to pass, almost as if saying, "yes, I see you."

I am going to go that route too. I mean, it's not like I have to look at it!

[trbig]

Now, on August 14th, head north 400 miles to Houghton, Michigan, and come meet a few owners!

http://www.xs11.com/forum/showthread.php?t=43739

[madmax-im]

My theory with High-vis is that attentive and well meaning drivers still have an uphill battle to see us, and I want to make it simple. Those buried in their phones have no chance and I need to be prepared for that every time. Since wearing that helmet and jacket this summer, I haven't had a single left turn in front of me, and even people who probably have time to pull out wait for me to pass, almost as if saying, "yes, I see you."

never ceases to amaze me that the people who ride these 30+ year old machines dress like all the gear they have is also of the same vintage....I have always been a hi viz guy... LOUD COLORS SAVE LIVES !!!

[jetmechmarty]

vintage bike = vintage gear (don't forget the mad face)



High viz is a fine idea, but you can't count on being seen for wearing it. They're still going to try to get you.

[madmax-im]

Marty thats cool...I have been seen many times because of my hi-viz gear...is it infallable? hell no...nothing is...all it takes is some bad timing and even hi-viz wont save yur azz....but it does help minimize those occaisions as is always the case...when you are on a rally with others you run the gamut of gear styles....some are laid back 1980s ish and others sre more up to date ATGATT like me(most of the time)

[madmax-im]

crap...the site or my computer are acting so slow I doubled posted...you only get 10 mins to edit a post and no ability to nuke it outright...

[trbig]

I like to wear low-vis, bland stuff. Makes it easier on the getaways when you accidentally outrun the cops (Long story) to not be wearing such memorable, bright stuff. Or at least easier to throw your buddy under the bus and say it was him when you get pulled over for speeding. (Another long story)

I think under different circumstances, Ben would definitely be of the "Loud pipes save lives!" crowd, but right now, it'd just be a guess. lol.

[tomcos67]

made it.yeah.!!

Glad your bike made it.Its like a love story...