Short ride on a Cold Tuesday (December 29,2009)

The year is winding down, the weather may turn a bit wet soon, and its certainly cold; but on a 40 degree Tuesday under a lot of sun, took a short ride today out on Union Street in Concord, NC. While there, went by the "old" city Christmas Tree and took a photo of the bike parked there. Was nice to get out for a while, and enjoyed the ride even with the coolness of the day. There is joy to be found under a bright cloudless blue sky, and besides...even a short ride is better than no ride at all. This is my third ride on the bike since I have been home (due to the upcoming weather...possibly the last this year) but was nice. In the course of the ride went by Onemor (also on Union Street) where hooked up with my old riding buddy (sold his bike last year) Keith and Jerry Jones who like me is working in Richmond, VA. Had a nice time with them, and had a nice lunch there before heading back to the house. Doubt I will get more in than starting the bike on Sunday before I go back to Richmond, but have sure enjoyed the rides. In distance over the three times I have been on it, went close to 100 miles, which is not bad considering it is late December, and a cold one at that!

Winter Ride in the Piedmont (December 27, 2009)

Have been out twice this visit so far, first time was a surprise ride. Found the motorcycle battery started fine (after being charged and even after sitting a month) and got a good ride on Thursday around the area for around an hour. Chilly and overcast but fun to be out for the first time since the Thanksgiving weekend. I continued that today, after a nice morning, headed out around noon for a ride around Concord. I headed out to Dale Earnhardt, Inc which was founded by the man himself, and enjoyed the ride cool as it was. Think it got pretty close to 50 while I was out, and did have nice looking skies.

Ride took me out to Davidson College in the town of Davidson on NC-115. I like that road, passed through Huntersville, Cornelius and Davidson. Many of the buildings in the town and at the school are old. Hell, Woodrow Wilson went to school there. It is a nice school; the church at left, and the building below are just a couple of the buildings on campus. Davidson itself is very neat; a small college town with a lot of interesting places to eat, as well as some friendly people. That area makes for a good ride, though good idea to always follow the posted speed limits. No tickets there (knock on wood) but the Davidson Police I am told do not fool around. I did get off the bike and walk around the campus a bit, like to do that from time to time. There was a family with a lot of dogs, and they were taking photos of the family and dogs. That is notable cause I did not see a lot of people; usually light early on Sunday rides, and this one was no exception. Sunday is often the best time of the week to ride, if you like a little peace and calm.

I rode back to Concord on NC-73 and as I got close traffic picked up (but never really bad) as I got back on NC-29. Rode out past the former Philip Morris factory in Concord, and finally saw a few bikers here and there in town. Good to see there were a few hardy souls (some of which were women riders) out as well as myself. I rode back to my house a little before 3pm following my noon start, and had covered some 85 miles in that three hours on the bike (though one hour was spent visiting with Ray, a former co-worker at the old factory). It was, as always, a good ride on two wheels on a Sunday.
Oh one other thing comes to mind...almost forgot. Did some maintenance checks, added a little oil (though not below the low line) but due to the cold temperatures did also check the air in the tires before the Thursday ride. Found the front tire was at 22 pounds (usually at 28) and the rear at 32 (usually at 38). With the cold temperatures, be sure to check your tires often. Proper inflation helps fuel mileage, handling, and also improves the ride. Ride safe always!

Merry Christmas/Happy New Year

A few days early, but heading back to Concord, NC and will be spending the holidays there. Its been relatively nice there; temperatures in the 50's, and sunny for the past few days. Family, friend, and of course the motorcycle (still needing a battery) await there. I plan to spend a lot of time with the family and friends; and yeah...will get that battery and get out on the bike. As for the Richmond area, while doing the last of my Christmas shopping at the nearby Diamond (Home of the Richmond Flying Squirrels) I stopped by Velocity Motorcycles. They carry some different motorcycles, but have to say its my favorite motorcycle shop in the RVA. I like unique bikes like this Ural Motorcycle with sidecar in the snow (one would think a Russian made motorcycle would be perfect in the snow). Richmond got hammered by the white stuff over the weekend, and it has been quite a few days since I have seen any motorcycles on the road.
So anyhow, its back to Carolina in the morning. I did want to wish you all a very Merry Christmas and Happy New Year (and if there is something else you celebrate also/instead...well hope its great for you too!) Certainly been a wild year for me living my very own "Tale of Two Cities" but it has been interesting and have enjoyed what I have been able to experience (though unfortunately as a non-rider here in Richmond) of the Richmond motorcycle scene. I hope to do even more in 2010. As for the Carolina rides; ditto on that. Due to work and weather, some of my favorite events did not work out for me; but hopefully will have some better luck this year. On the bright side the ride with Steve to the Blue Ridge Parkway (Blowing Rock and Boone, NC) was a perfect day. Looked like the skies would unload, but it was fine.
That is what I hope your rides are in 2010. Be safe, and enjoy the wind in your face, and power at your wrist.

December in Richmond VA

December 5, 2009 to be exact. Went to Ultimate Cycle to see if their motorcycle batteries were cheaper than the one I priced at RideNow in Concord (and that would be a....nope!). Will be ordering that this week probably. Might get back and see if it starts when I get home to Carolina. Of course, be nice if it would quit raining. Another wet day in Richmond (and in Carolina too, though since I am not there, no big deal) but nice to visit the bike shop. When I am not riding, I am thinking about riding; so great to have Ultimate Cycle nearby.
Been also doing a lot of looking at new bikes (though not in the market, very happy with the Vulcan Classic) but some interesting bikes coming out in the next few weeks and months from the manufacturers. Though the economy blows, there will be some interesting bikes in 2010. A bit of manufacturer news; HD is NOT going to put a factory in Kentucky after working out contract problems with the Union at the York facility. Also speaking of Harley (sort of) have been enjoying greatly episodes of "Sons of Anarchy" which I watch on Hulu. Hulu is great, but being part of the upcoming Comcast purchase, will probably get ruined under their ownership.
Saw that Buell is still going to be making some bikes; based on the 1125R and its Rotax engine (no more Harley engined Buell's). That motor (unlike the HD engines) is a real modern beast with a lot of power. Think that Erik Buell is one of the most innovative designers out there, wish him the best of luck.
As for me, enjoying a rainy day in Richmond, waiting till the next ride.

Thanksgiving in Concord, NC (Nov 26-30)

Had a previous photo of the Honda Fury at RideNow in Concord, NC; they apparently sold that one, and have this new color in. Still think its a neat looking motorcycle, and the new Honda Sabre, and Interstate which comes out in February will be along much the same lines. Took this photo while at RideNow checking on a battery for the Kawasaki Vulcan (which of course will have to be ordered). The five year old battery on the bike is giving up the ghost apparently. On a Friday ride it did not start. A borrowed battery charger from a friend got me back on the road, but a new battery is upcoming. Need to be able to depend on the battery.
Santa though in front of my house does not have that problem. Had a great visit at home this holiday. Put some lights in the bushes, items in the windows (different light displays which stick on with suction cups) and got the tree up. It was an all day project (and part of the night) but at least in the house in Concord it looks a lot like Christmas! Love this time of year though not the best riding time of the year; but I do manage to get a few in. In fact while Friday was a bit cool, it got into the 60's on Sunday. Of course, being a "resident" of two cities as I am now, don't get quite as much riding in as I usually do; but I do the best I can.
Despite the battery problem once it was charged did get in a Friday ride. Rode out to Extreme Motorcycles in Salisbury, NC, and as I thought, it is out of business. Was a neat dealership which carried a lot of different bikes (Suzuki, Kawasaki, and Big Dog Motorcycles). Bike did start on Sunday and I went out around Concord. Went to Cannon Village in Kannapolis, NC to see if the lights were in the trees. They were...and Patty and I drove out later Sunday night to see the trees all lit up...a nice Christmas time display! All in all got in close to 100 miles of motorcycle riding over the two days I rode; not too bad for late November. Good thing about North Carolina riding though is that with the proper gear for the weather, its possible to ride all year. That was a whole lot harder to pull off in the Ohio Valley during my Louisville days. Best wishes to all of you for a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!

November Rides in Concord, NC (November 8+9, 2009)

After the big mountain ride on my last trip (see previous posts) to Blowing Rock, NC this trip home rode a bit less distance (to say the least) sticking close to Concord, NC. Wanted to see how the bike rode after almost falling over at the end of the last ride, but its fine.....just a bit of a cosmetic thing, but no real damage. Took a November 8 ride to Concord Regional Airport which was fun; like to check out the airplanes, and a ride down some local backroads in a 90 minute ride. It was a fantastic day, with sunny cloudless skies, and temperature close to 70 degrees. Not a long ride, but sure felt great to be "back in the saddle again" after a long two week pause.
On Monday November 9, I went to Speedway Harley-Davidson which is where I took these two photos to the left. Those are a couple of new 2010 Harley-Davidson motorcycles. I wanted to go by RideNow to see some of the new Japanese/Victory bikes they sell but they are on "fall hours" (closed on Sunday and Monday) so that will have to wait for one of my future rides. Monday was also a very good day, but did cloud up quite a bit due to an approaching tropical storm (which I am told really hammered Concord rain wise on Tuesday morning). I just missed that on my drive back to Richmond today in the car. It was great to see my family, and got in a longer ride on Monday; so some good motorcycling on this visit. I always say it is better to get a short ride in than none at all; in my case, had two good ones. Looking forward to the next visit and the next rides in the Carolinas.

Motorcycle News of Note

Killing some time a few days before I get some riding in (weather permitting) back home in a few days. In the meantime, have been looking at some motorcycle news; and found a few things of note this week. Photo at right is of my friend Steve's Harley-Davidson Ultra Classic, which he rode on during our ride (I ride a Kawasaki Vulcan) to the mountains of North Carolina on Monday October 26 (featured on my previous post below). That ride was a great ride, and probably the best and longest of the rest of the year; covering right around 246 miles that day.
Harley is having (as are most if not all) of the motorcycle manufacturers, though a good selection of new bikes coming out this year (and I hope to be showing some more of them soon over the winter months coming up). Harley reported its sales for the 3rd quarter of 09 down 21.3% from the same period of 08. They also announced that they would be ending production of Buell Motorcycles (built since 1983) and would be selling the Italian firm of MV Agusta (purchased by HD in 2008). Harley is not alone as noted in their troubles; believe sales are down all over in this economy.
Wanted to note that the 7th Annual Arzie Rogers Toy Run (sponsored by Speedway Harley-Davidson of Concord, NC) will be held on Sunday November 22, 2009. Information on the ride can be found in the Customer Corner of the Speedway Harley-Davidson web site, ride cost is one unwrapped toy, lunch will be provided, and the ride starts forming up around 10am at Fieldcrest Cannon Stadium in Kannapolis, NC. Due to the "Richmond thing" I will not be able to go this year, but did make the ride last year, and had a great time. Its a huge ride in the numbers of bikers, and also covers some of the best roads in Cabarrus and Rowan Counties. The ride ends at Speedway HD; make it if you can (and tell them I sent ya!).
I enjoy motorcycle racing (watching it, not doing it) and noted that Valentino Rossi won his 9th MotoGP championship this year; "The Doctor" as he is known is one of the legends of motorcycle racing, and still going strong. Ben Spies won the World Superbike Championship....both Spies and Rossi both won racing Yamaha motorcycles. Yamaha has a long history of success in motorcycle road racing, and continues to add to their long list of wins and titles.
As for me, looking forward to getting in at least a short bit of riding soon with an upcoming trip back home for a few days. Love this time of year and the Charlotte area should be full of color from the trees, and its a great time to ride with cool temperatures as well. There will be a lot of fall rides and toy runs in the Carolinas over the next few weeks; get out and enjoy some of them if you can!

Mountain Man Ride (October 26, 2009)

Got up Monday October 26, 2009 to a cold and overcast day. What was going to be a five person ride, turned into a two person ride; Steve and I headed out on the bikes to Blowing Rock, NC. Due to the road construction on NC-321 (our favorite route) we got on NC-115 and then took NC-421 to Blowing Rock. Photo at left (indeed all of these) were taken at "Grandview Overlook" on the amazing Blue Ridge Parkway. We went with a forecast of WSOC Channel 9 that rain chances were zero, was ugly looking all day long, but they were dead on with the forecast, it was perfect. As for the cold (temps in the 50's all day) being from the great midwest I was dressed for it; thats the key to a successful fall/winter ride.
We stopped at the Daniel Boone Inn for lunch, but was packed, so went back to Blowing Rock to The Canyons and ate (its right at the top of NC-321. It has great views and the prices were really great. Most mountain places to eat like to charge an arm and a leg, but they don't. I went by there on a previous visit, but did not eat, glad I got to this time...I will be back! Time was a factor this trip, so did not get to make a ride into downtown Blowing Rock itself, but did get out on the parkway. Colors were probably a bit past peak; not a lot of yellows, mostly some brown and red remaining, and a few bare trees too. One thing I like about weekday rides...light traffic.
We did see a few motorcycles (and some cars) but not the bumper to bumper weekend traffic. We also rode through Boone; another beautiful area. I was also very impressed (though a quick view) of ASU, looks like a fine school (and they normally have a kickass football team). Nice ride back to Concord, and got home near 5pm (we met up at 10am at the Texaco on Popular Tent Road). One bad deal, bike kickstand in the garage came up, and the bike went over. I caught it, but did a bit of damage to the floorboard bracket on the bike (luckily nothing else hit). Looks like Kawasaki saw that coming; looks easy to replace (though sure the price will give me pause). Still things happen, and could have been worse. Still rideable, but like to get that fixed. All else well, hope you all have safe rides; and bundle up guys!

October Rides in Concord (October 3-12)

Got back to North Carolina for a week off, arriving on a Saturday morning (October 3) and did get in a short ride around the area. Was a nice sunny day, and cool...for the first time in a long time wore a jacket and gloves. Nice to get out after a longer than usual period. I got in another ride a few days later but ended up dodging rain showers, and that was less than an hour. That is where I took this photo though of the bike and the store I came across at left. Short rides, but good ones (better short rides than no rides at all). A busy week, with a five day visit to Louisville, Ky to see family and friends, purchased a new car (2009 Nissan Versa), and went to the Panthers/Washington football game.
Was wild being back in Louisville. Kentucky and Indiana have no helmet laws, and saw a mix of people; some with helmets on, some without. South Carolina (except for Myrtle Beach, which has passed a helmet law to stop the bike rallies, currently being fought in the courts)does not either. I don't have a problem with people not wearing them, though I don't ride without one. Have a few friends who have taken serious injuries without a helmet on.
Watched Sons of Anarchy while on vacation, really like that show. It has taken some interesting twists and turns of late, also one of the most popular shows on cable. Speaking of motorcycle gangs, the Pagan Motorcycle Club has been in the news in Richmond, one of its members got killed in a police raid in the Richmond area, they had a big funeral in town (all that while I was gone).
Two new bikes have caught my eye, and will be looking at them when they hit the dealers. The first is the long awaited Honda 1200 Interceptor with the V-4 engine. It has a lot of interesting features. I also like the new Kawasaki Z-1000 which has had a major redesign. Interesting that the bike manufacturers even during this recession (or perhaps better put in spite of the recession) are putting out some very interesting motorcycles.
I am hoping in my next visit home to get a good mountain ride in, from being in the mountains (between Charlotte and Louisville is Tennessee) saw the leaves even at the highest elevations are just starting to turn. That though will soon change. Makes for some great rides in the fall of the year on the remarkable Blue Ridge Parkway, and I hope to be there soon!

Commonweath Powersports (September 26, 2009)

What is now yesterday as noted in the previous post went to both Colonial Harley-Davidson and Commonwealth Powersports which is nearby. I saw Commonwealth off in the distance. I thought it was called Burcham Cycles (thats the name on the building) but found it had changed owners when I talked to a friend from Richmond. Photo at left though was a helmet that I got a photo of at Colonial Harley-Davidson. I am a big fan of aviation (always liked aircraft and worked in the Navy in a P-3 Orion squadron) and like that helmet! Anyhow, if you go to Colonial Harley-Davidson, you can see Commonwealth Powersports from the parking lot.

It is a big dealership with some open bay doors. Like Colonial it has a lot of space, and a very good looking service department. Store was very clean, and also noted that it had a number of customers in there. That is a good sign in times like these, have noted it has been slow at most of the motorcycle dealerships during the on-going recession. Commonwealth seemed to have a lot of items for sale such as shirts, hats, jackets, boots, etc..and as my buddy (who rides a Yamaha noted) a lot of Yamaha related items. Most Japanese motorcycle stores do not sell a lot of clothing related items.
They have a lot of motorcycles, and carry Yamaha, Suzuki and Kawasaki motorcycles. As a sort of different touch, they also have a really nice looking Corvette in there as well on display, with the original purchase window sticker! I enjoyed the visit to this store, which was a great place to spend some time when your motorcycle is some 300 miles away and its a very ugly looking day outside!

Colonial Harley-Davidson (September 26, 2009)

On a rainy, gray dreary day in Virginia, what could be better than visiting a bike shop? That was my thinking this Saturday morning when I got into the Neon (which unlike my Kawasaki Vulcan is a real POS) and drove to Colonial Harley-Davidson at 1701 Temple Parkway in Prince George, VA. The shop was easy to find (being rather huge) and having a bright orange roof as you can see in the photo at left. There were quite a few cars in the lot (but no bikes owing to the weather) which shows that great minds think alike (or at least bikers know where to go when it looks like the skies will unload any minute.
They had a really good selection of motorcycles and surprisingly even some new Buell Motorcycles. I like the Buell line (and if you have not seen the new "2010 Buell Blast" video, check it out at the Buell web site). While very innovative motorcycles (with features such as fuel in the frame, and oil in the swingarm) they have been hampered by the use of Harley-Davidson engines. Great for cruising motorcycles, but a bit lame for sportbikes. The 1125R uses a Helicon 1125 V-twin engine; fuel injected, water cooled (two radiators) designed by Rotax (who has also made motorcycle engines for BMW, Aprilia as well as small aircraft engines. That should help level the field. The bike has (according to reviews) put the Buell more into competition with other sportbikes out there.
In addition to the Buell's they also had a big line of Harley-Davidson motorcycles. I checked out some of the 2010 models, plus the shop area (very nice and well equipped), as well as the very nice customer lounge. Been to a few Harley-Davidson shops (many of my friends ride Harley and like to be near the shops on rides...I joke it is to get parts that fall off, though they are much better made than a few years ago) and really liked this one. I was greeted but not hassled and was free to wander around without being bothered which is nice. They also have a large selection of clothing and motorcycle items (I found a great helmet that I may go back for with an aviation theme. I liked this motorcycle shop.
Nearby was another shop, this one was Burcham Cycles which sells Kawasaki, Suzuki and Yamaha motorcycles. I also visited that shop, and will comment on that visit in my very next post.

Random Monday Motorcycling Thoughts (Sept 21, 2009)

Took this photo during my last visit home, and am a few days from riding again with a trip to Concord coming up in a few days. Wandered around RideNow in Concord, NC...always interested in the new bikes coming to the market.
So far, few have come out from the Japanese, but a few are of real interest. Sounding more and more like the V-4 is the real deal, and we will be seeing that this year. From the sound of it, as is the case with previous Interceptors it will be loaded with much of Honda's new technology. Should be a most interesting motorcycle.
I have been reading some really negative comments about "electric motorcycles" at the Motorcyclist.com web site. For sure many issues remain with those bikes, but early models have been interesting. As far as performance, Mission One's electric bike (same one, or same type raced at Isle of Man in the first electric bike race) set an electric bike record with a average speed of 150.059 with a top speed of 161. That is more than respectable. I also have been following the speed records being set by the electric "KillaCycle" which is a drag bike. It has run as fast as an ET of 7.82 @174 mph. Considering the time of development, this is very impressive. More research is being done into hydrogen powered motorcycles. To me, it is less about being green (though that is a plus) but a big positive is the oil supply in the world. While gasoline prices have been moderate this year, I doubt that will be the case when (and hopefully soon) the economy takes back off. Battery technology is coming along. I have featured Zero Motorcycles model in a previous post, I think that in the upcoming future those kind of bikes will take on a greater role.
Fall starts tomorrow, which is my favorite time of year (though getting cooler, fall weather is not quite here yet) but looking forward to great rides under the multi-colored tree canopy soon to be seen around most of the US.

WS AIr Show/Hendrick Motorsports (September 12-14)

Interesting weekend which started with a stop on the way to Concord at the Winston-Salem Air Show. I had a great time there, and also saw this motorcycle there, a police bike on display. The traffic was really heavy (took the car there to the show, it was just a slight detour on the way home) but a great air show! I am a huge aviation fan (spent some time in a VP squadron in the Navy) and enjoyed seeing the planes on display and flying. Many pilots are also avid motorcyclists, you tend to see a lot of motorcycles at air shows. If you ever get the chance, check this air show out.

On Sunday, I got the motorcycle all cleaned up (removed the summer dust) and took it out for a ride. Took this photo of the freshly cleaned Vulcan Classic at Frank Liske Park in Concord, NC. I like that park and especially like those Sunday morning rides. It is a great time to get out with very light traffic as most people are either in church or reading the Sunday paper (or in the case of this Sunday, getting ready for football). Did not go far, but did enjoy a nice ride on a very comfortable Sunday morning. I am totally ready for fall to get here; great to have less heat and humidity.


On Monday, I took a more substantial ride, along with visiting some friends from work still in Concord, I got a good ride in. Along the places I visited was Hendrick Motorsports. Photo here is a mechanic working on one of Dale Earnhardt, Jr's cars (he has many to race). Always enjoy those shops, and many are located in the Concord area. Got a good distance on this ride, went even into parts of Charlotte in the course of the day.
Once again, not a great deal of distance due to the Richmond situation I am in, but some good quality and very smile inducing rides.

Looking forward to my next visit home, hoping to get a ride to the mountains soon in early October. Not only with weather conditions, but also looking for some leaves to be falling soon, have been seeing the first signs.

Back to Morrow Mountain (September 6, 2009)

Always nice to be back in Carolina, and got a really fantastic riding day on Sunday September 6, 2009. Steve (leaning against the pole, rides the red Harley Ultra Classic), Bill (in the shadow, rides the Honda Gold Wing) and though I am not in this photo, thats my Kawasaki Vulcan Classic in the middle...all rode on a beautiful Carolina Sunday. This was our lunch stop at Harmanco's in Albemarle, NC. Good place to eat, and also to watch a little motorcycle racing and a lot of football on the televisions in there. It is a favorite stop of ours during rides in that area, and we go by often. Harmanco's is known for its Cajon food which is very good.
Took this photo at the top of Morrow Mountain. Lately I have been there a great deal; I think this is my third visit in recent weeks. Always a great ride though and amazingly it was Bill's first visit to a place which draws bikers to itself like bees to honey. It is a great country ride out there, and a fantastic view. Steve took us back to Concord via some of his favorite backroads, which was a great deal of fun. I have been on some great rides with these guys and this was another in the series. Starting up there to see the first early hints of fall, with a few leaves coming down from the trees. Fall is my favorite time of year to ride and just a few more weeks away until its that time of year. Course, its still warmer than fall weather, but the humidity was down a great deal, and it was fantastic for this time of year on the mountain. Morrow Mountain is a North Carolina State Park by the way, with all sorts of things to do in addition to the great motorcycling to be found there..and best of all, its (largely) free; at least no admission charge.
I did get out for a short ride on Monday, took the motorcycle to visit a former working buddy (as are Steve and Bill by the way) and rode around Concord for a bit. Again a perfect day for a cruise out in the wind, and another fun ride, this time in town. Looking forward to the next visit home, hopefully in a few days!

Interesting Weekend/Bikes in Virignia (August 28-31)

Had a very fine weekend in Richmond; great part was that my wife Patty was here for the four day period. She drove in Friday night and left Monday afternoon. In between we got to explore a lot of the city; I showed her some favorite sights I have come across and we also discovered some new ones. One thing we did was eat at The Boathouse at Swift Creek. Not a food critic, but it was outstanding seafood and it is always great to be dining with such a great background as a lake. Coming out to the car, found these two Harley-Davidson's parked next to me. They seem to be mid 90's models; liked them with the lake in the background of the photo.

Sunday the 30th, while out at Shockoe Bottom after a dinner (sounds like all we did was eat, but got a lot of exploring in) saw this Suzuki Hayabusa parked not far from the open air market. I spoke to the owner, and complemented him on a very fine bike. I really like the extended swing arms on many of the sport bikes, and the one on this busa has some nice details added.
Patty and I explored much of the city. On Saturday it was Buz and Ned's BBQ (yeah, more food) which is right across from Velocity Motorcycles. We also checked out Monument Avenue, and the Virginia Historical Museum. We made a tour of Hollywood Cemetery, and a bit of downtown as well before ending with dinner at The Boathouse.
On Sunday, a shorter tour. Took an early walk around the Capital area, down to Canal Walk and Belle Isle (first time to see that, remarkable place that I will be returning to soon) and then out to Shockoe Bottom for lunch at Bottom's Up. Got to the apartment to relax and watched the Red Bull Indianapolis Grand Prix. Great race (much better than last year when a huge storm shortened the race) with a large crowd by the look of it on hand. Jorge Lorenzo won on a Yamaha (his teammate Rossi crashed out), with a Honda driven by Alex DeAngelis coming in second and "The Kentucky Kid" Nicky Hayden coming in third on his Ducati. A good race at one of the world's best race tracks. MotoGP is pretty exciting, and nice to see those races on regular tv and live!
As for me, coming up is a four day trip to Concord, NC.....back with my family and friends and of course some riding on my Kawasaki Vulcan 1500 Classic. Looking forward to some great riding stories in my next post on this blog.

Riding under Carolina Skies (August 23, 2009)

It was a good weekend in Concord, enjoyed the Sunday morning ride. Took this photo while out, had some periods of rain during the weekend, but a beautiful Sunday morning. I like riding when the traffic is light with all the people in churches or reading the Sunday paper (did that last earlier).
Rode to the Concord Mills area, finally got to see the outside of the Great Wolf Lodge. Quite a place and told it has quite a water park in it (though for quite a price to stay there!). Liked the big wolves carved outside the entrance to the park. I then rode past the old factory I used to work at. I am told it is for sale, but did not see a sign out front. Sad to see it empty and not running. Left a lot of friends there, but many of them are also here now in Richmond, VA. I also rode to Cannon Village and stopped by the big Dale Earnhardt statue. I am putting those photos (of Dale and Great Wolf) on the Richmond/Concord blog I also publish. It was a short weekend at home being just two days, and with time and weather the riding was very light.
That should change on my next visit over the Labor Day weekend; will be a four day break. The Vulcan Riding Club is planning a ride, also hope to get some more riding in during the break. It has been getting a little cooler and less humid, hope that is the first early signs of fall coming. I am a big fan of Fall, think it is the best season for riding a motorcycle. Great colors in the trees and good comfortable temperatures. The fall is also when the new Japanese and European motorcycles come out. I will be covering all that in future posts,

HD of South Richmond

Would like to have been at VIR for the motorcycle races this weekend, but that was not in the cards unfortunately (this year anyhow). I did however make it out to HD of South Richmond which is located at 10011 Hull Street Road in Richmond, VA. Found it to be a nice friendly shop, apparently one of two if one goes by the very good web site. This one is not one of the "upgraded" stores, being in a shopping mall, but had a good collection of motorcycles, clothes, and a nice look to it. An Aerosmith (get well soon Steve Tyler...who fell off a stage at the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally) video was playing on a big screen tv in the store.
They had a good selection of motorcycles in the store. Something I have not seen very often is one of the salesmen fired up one of the bikes on the sales floor, I thought that was pretty cool (and it was a new one not a used bike. I did get a real good look at the red XR-1200 at the bottom right; I have been to a few flat track races (in both Louisville, Kentucky and in Concord, NC) and really like that styling. Said to be the most powerful of Harley-Davidson air cooled bikes, and an interesting motorcycle to check out. Started out being an overseas model, but has been made to sell in America "by popular demand".
A very enjoyable visit, was neat to check out the bikes; being far from mine nice to be around the shop and checking out a few of the new 2010 models. Will be checking out many more motorcycle shops and events during my time here in Virginia.

Hot Riding in NC (August 8-10)

Actually, did not go riding with Ray in the first photo, he I ran into riding with a friend (can sort of see the other bike at far right) on Sunday at Three Monkey's in Harrisburg (stopped in with my wife for a quick order of Fried Pickles and a cold beverage). Ray rides a Kawasaki Vulcan Drifter. Due to the style had it done up as an Indian Motorcycle (sort of a tribute bike) and has had it a number of years. Used to work with Ray at the factory. I did get a ride in Sunday morning; had ridden to Harrisburg, NC. I really enjoy the Sunday morning rides in North Carolina; the traffic is light and the air is cool. That was a big deal this weekend...

Monday, I did go riding with Steve, who rides a 2005 Harley-Davidson Ultra Classic. Like Ray, Steve was a former co-worker of mine, and also like Ray he took early retirement. This is his third bike; started with a Honda Sabre (1100), had a HD Wide Glide, and then went to this bike. Steve likes to ride a great deal, and especially likes long distance rides. We have been on many epic rides in the mountains of North Carolina, and have seen a lot of the state when we have done that (with a few rides in South Carolina thrown in). If you want to get some miles on the bikes, Steve is for sure the person to ride with.


Steve took this photo of me on the 2005 Kawasaki Vulcan Classic 1500 which is my ride. Monday was one of the hottest days of the year so far; with a heat index north of 100 degrees. While we usually make long rides, due to the heat we did not get out so long. We rode around Downtown Concord, and out on Old Concord/Salisbury Road; which has a number of twists and turns, plus is one of the most scenic roads in the local area. The heat though made it feel like we were riding face on into a blast furnace. Still though, when so much of my time is spent working in Richmond, Va...riding when you can is critical. I did enjoy the fact that rain did not come by for its visit this weekend. This has been a big year for storms in the Charlotte, NC area....good for the area which had been under a drought for the last few years, but not the best weather for motorcycling. I have been lucky though during my visits home; have missed few days due to rain in the day time (nighttime would be a different story).
No big rides, but riding is always a joy, especially when the motorcycle is not normally "close at hand." Enjoyed some good riding, and saw some interesting sights during the weekend. Even in the heat; always a joy to ride!

Motorcycling....Riding the Internet

With my bike in North Carolina (will be riding that in a few days) have been in Richmond doing some internet surfing. I am always looking for interesting events both in North Carolina, South Carolina (Charlotte is on the border of that state) and also in my part time home of Virginia. Have found a few good events here (such as the Saturday morning Childsavers Ride a few months ago....a massive gathering of bikers riding for a good cause), and always on the lookout for more.
Been looking at a lot of the new bikes coming out; as usual leading the pack is Harley-Davidson, and now Victory both of which have some new models (or in some cases new versions of older ones). One thing I got a kick out of is the Buell site.....the sport bike line of Harley-Davidson which is the brainchild of Erik Buell. Punch up Buell Motorcycles; and check out the video at his site on "The New 2010 Buell Blast". It is one of the funniest ads I have seen in a long, long time.
Also of interest is a trailer for the new movie "Tron". I remember the old one (a groundbreaking movie back in the day using computer animation). It was also a pretty good video game back in the early days of (good) video games. Trailer features the "light cycles" and is pretty cool.
Though there is not a lot of information on it (of yet) Honda has a site for the new 1200cc V-4 (apparently) sport bike coming out later this year. Its more of a teaser site, though a concept bike did show up at one of the bike shows last year. Always thought a lot of the V-4 Honda motorcycle engine. Some great bikes used that such as the Interceptor (which still uses an 800cc version), and it was even used in a very fine cruiser called the Magna (which was discontinued some years ago). Looking forward to seeing that bike; whatever it turns out to be.

Short Rides During a Three-Day Visit (July 25-27)

I really enjoy Sunday morning motorcycle rides. The streets are quiet and the traffic is light; both wonderful conditions on a ride. Along with that was some wonderful weather, the early morning cool, and the amazing blue skies. It was a really nice ride. Rode for an hour to Kannapolis, NC. That used to be a great mill town; with the giant Pillowtex complex. Now, its a town which is hoping for a new future with the NC Research Center. Those great buildings continue to go up on the site of the former textile mill buildings. Its a remarkable transformation.
Monday, I visited a friend from work; as fate would have it rode by the old factory which is ending production in Concord, NC today as I write this. A-shift (which I used to be on, now in Richmond working B-shift) was letting out for one of the last times. That will soon be a giant empty complex. Its for sale, think the asking price of the around 2500 acres is something like $500 million (give or take a few million). The loss will add a few thousand to the growing unemployment rolls in Concord, and will make for difficult times for many friends I worked with over the years.
Still, as I have found, life is full of changes, challenges and difficulties. Sometimes the best thing you can do is to take a ride. It does make for a fantastic escape. It was good to be out on the bike, and back home again!

Norton is back, and new bikes from Victory

While exploring the internet the other day, came across a bit of news I had to check out. Seems that in England, the Norton brand has been revived. Right now its one bike (aka Indian) but a second is in the works. Has a very classic look, a bit over a 900cc engine and you can see it at http://www.nortonmotorcycles.com. Right now its a limited (around 200 bikes) production run, and not yet available in the US, but interested in that. Saw a real nice Norton Commando at Velocity Motorcycles in Richmond, VA (previous post talks about that) and that is how I came to check on Norton. Back in the day, they were fast motorcycles.
Victory has put out its new 2010 motorcycles. Surprisingly during this recession they have a number of new models. Brought out two new touring models, also a new addition to the (lower cost) "8 Ball" lineup; a Hammer and the Vision have been added (others are versions of the Vegas, and a Kingpin version added earlier to the original 8-Ball) .
Its been a tough year for the motorcycle shops (at least for new bike sales). When I go into RideNow, its like getting swooped on by vultures (probably the same if not worse at new car dealierships, though have not been into any of those).
I did note that Louisville (mty former home town and the first stop in the "factory job world tour" I am currently on) is going after a DUI driver who killed a motorcyclist in a crash. The charge is MURDER, which is a positive in my book. Too often drivers get off with that "I did not see the motorcycle". However, as riders its important that we take charge of our own safety, and watch out for the other guy, and expect the unexpeced. Watch out for drivers on Cell Phones (they are in another world often, and are probably more dangerous than drunk drivers according to studies), and especially watch for cars turning left into your lane. Statistically, that is the most danger to riders on motorcycles...and it happens often.
Hope your rides are great, always ride safe!

Zero Motorcycles and the Future of Motorcycling

I have read about this bike in magazines such as Motorcyclist and on-line as well. This 2009 Zero X Electric Dirtbike is quite remarkable in many ways. I photographed it at Velocity Motorcycles in Richmond, Virginia yesterday. The designer of the bike (Neal Saiki) worked for NASA for many years, got into designing mountain bikes, and then took on this project. The bike has a weight of 151 pounds, the electric motor puts out 23bhp, and an impressive 50 lb-ft pounds of torque. Many of the components are from mountain bike suppliers, and the frame (fitting his aviation history) is aircraft grade aluminum. The bike provides almost instant full power and full torque. The battery pack is the heart of the design; weighing 45 pounds, the lithium-ion battery puts out 300 amps, which can get the bike up to 55 mph. Range is one to two hours depending on how it is ridden. No oil changes, no tune ups, no clutch....just twist the grip and go (and refueling is a recharge). Price is about $7450 or $9450 for the "extreme" model. In checking out the web site for Zero Motorcycles I have read that there is a street bike in the works as well.
Of course, I have also read that Vetrix (who makes an electric scooter) is on its last legs. Zero Motorcycles seems to be doing well, though the current fall in gasoline prices (and the recession) has to be taking a toll on sales (Harley-Davidson announced more layoffs this week due to the drop off in big bike motorcycle sales). Still, the Zero is a great and on-going advance in motorcycle technology.
Electric motorcycles are quickly becoming more than toys. An electric drag bike called Killacycle is running on two 1850 amp, 500 bhp total hp (800 lb.-ft of torque) at a speed of 174.05 mph at 7.89 seconds. This is 1.02 seconds less than the NHRA Pro-stock motorcycle ET record! Plus it does it on 7 cents worth of electricity, getting a recharge after each run which takes 4 minutes!
The bikes will continue to improve, battery technology will as well. Fuel prices, while down now will eventually be heading back up. I believe that electric motorcycles will eventually give remarkable performance, and lower the cost both of fuel and maintenance (got to remember no oil changes or valve adjustments on electric bikes) and still be something remarkable to ride.
This technology will be worth following!

Velocity Motorcycles

Among my adventures in Richmond today was a very good visit to Velocity Motorcycles which is located on The Boulevard in Richmond, Virginia (just up the road from The Diamond, and directly across from Buz and Ned's...both of which I also took a look at). Velocity really looked like a good shop to visit. For one thing they have a good number of classic bikes, and also they have some interesting brands that they sell. I found the people there very friendly, and were very nice about my photo taking. I took quite a few motorcycle photos. They had some old Honda, BSA, Norton, Ducati, and some newer used bikes (such as a very nice BMW as well).
I have seen a lot of Russian made Ural motorcycles, but all the others had the sidecar attached. This one was neat in that it did not. I have heard two stories about the Ural. I do know it was based on a WWII era model BMW. Some have said that the Russians copied it from captured German Army models, others that BMW gave Russia the old design having a newer one in the works. At any case a great blend of old and new. Much of the bike has been updated over the years with better electronics and brakes. I am told that they need to be kept up with maintenance wise, but are easy to work on, and pretty solid rides.
As for the Royal Enfield, that was an old British make, which somehow ended up remaining in production in India for the past few years. Like the Ural, the bikes have been updated over the years, getting more modern components. This is a more modern version (and that is another Royal Enfield in the window) of the bike. Like the Ural not the kind of bike for high power rides, but a very inexpensive way to get into motorcycling. As a bonus both brands are very unique, I have seen them but not a great many of them. One drawback would be that dealers could be hard to come across if you break down far from home.

Velocity also sells Hysung motorcycles (nice and up and coming manufacturer from South Korea), and also sells the new US made Zero Motorcycle. Zero is really cool in that its all-electric, but its no toy playbike ; has some really good performance.
It was a great visit, and really enjoyed the time spent there. I will be making additional trips from time to time. Another bonus, they rent motorcycles there (as mine is in North Carolina, not out of the question that I will do some riding in Virginia while here which would be great).
As a bonus, got the motorcycle magazine "Motorcycle Times" and that was fun to read too (always like the free ones). Next post will be on the Zero Motorcycle, be fun to give some of the details on that bike! Until then, ride safe!

Four Deaths....and the thoughts of Morons

While home in North Carolina over the past eleven days, noted that four motorcyclists died in traffic accidents. Many were due to bad judgment (speeding, stunting) some were bike/car crashes; all tragic. When riding one has to be very careful, especially in North and South Carolina where speeding, tailgating, drivers glued to cell phones, running red lights....all that and more. Many are from other states and countries; so when you ride keep your eyes moving and watch out for the other guy (this is also good advice in cars or whatever you drive).
What griped my ass though was the comments made by some in the Charlotte Observer. Everything from "hope he was an organ donor" to "he deserved it". It also is fair to note that there were also a number of automobile crashes which also resulted in deaths (including some in the so called super safe SUV's....how is that possible). Course it seems that those newspaper post article posting sites really bring out the jerks. I liked one of the comments after one post; "none of you would be friends of mine in real life, certainly none here") talking about the tones of the comments. To be fair not just the motorcycle posts, most of the posts made seem to be of a "Rush Limbaugh" tone. You know the type, basically sarcastic hate filled posts with a tinge of racism.
To my friends and co riders, be careful. Watch out for the cages and keep your attention on the road. Save the stunting for the parking lots, and speeding for the track. Ride safe, and ride long (and I have been riding now for 37 years without an accident, so I speak from experience.

Back to Virginia

Later today will load up the car, and get rolling back to Virginia. Have been back to Concord since July 2, was a great long vacation. Really enjoyed not only some great rides but just riding in general. During the period I only drove the car twice; once to take the dog to the vet, and once yesterday to get some gasoline for the lawn mower. In addition to the three rides I mentioned in previous posts; made a few shorter and local rides around Concord. One of those was last night, for as the temperature cooled off from the blazing heat (mid 90s) of the afternoon went for a dusk ride around the area. It was nice, was able to just cruise down Union Street as the sun was going down. Have learned to avoid the country rides at night, sure you get a few bugs in town, but its swarms out in the backroads when the sun goes down. Town seems a bit better, and saw a few bikers enjoying the same thing as I was. Anyhow rode by the big houses on Union Street, turned up toward NC29 past the two old (and converted; one to apartments, one to offices) textile mills, and then on NC29 toward the Speedway. Turned short of the track though, and rolled back past Frank Liske Park and to NC 49 toward home. During the ride the headlight got brighter on the road as the area got darker; came in though with a nice restful feeling after a really fine though short ride. After the big morning motorcycle ride, an afternoon of tasks, the ride was really great.
Last night thunderstorms in the area; during the days here had only one day of rain prior to that. All in all, a very great week, with a lot of new memories and discoveries to carry me to the next trip back home.
Should be noted that I also enjoyed visiting with my family and friends, and just the joy of being home again. It has been said there is no place like it, and I certainly agree with that statement!

SC Breakfast Club Ride (July 12, 2009)

Patty Wagstaff made some good comments in her blog not long ago about the Rowan County Airport which is near Salisbury, NC. Today, I rode the Vulcan there to meet the planes and pilots who flew in with the South Carolina Breakfast Club. I had a great time, this was actually an early photo (in the next couple of days will show many of the most interesting planes on Flickr...and I have a link to that on my page) as later dozens of aircraft, many historic flew in for breakfast with EAA 1083 and me! I am a big fan of aviation and aircraft, and enjoyed the visit there today. I left the house at 8am, found the streets really quiet and traffic light. I love riding on Sunday mornings. The fact that it was cool early (something which has changed as afternoon has rolled on) was also nice. So enjoyed the ride without the usual speeding masses texting on their cell phones, and had a good cruise in to the airport.
After around a two hour visit, rolled into Salisbury, NC. Very interesting town and always has something new to offer. Being also something of a Civil War buff (and Richmond has a lot of that to explore also) discovered today a house (was told it was the quarters for the Confederate guards) of the Salisbury Confederate Prison. The prison was burned when Federal troops took the town. I was also told of another house, found that; was the residence of the chief confederate doctor at the prison. One of the cannon used at that prison was also in the yard. Little (other than the trenches which hold an estimated 11-18,000 Union dead nearby) remains of the prison that was in Salisbury.
After that, rode back to Concord via Old Concord/Salisbury Road. I enjoyed that ride also, again traffic early was light, and enjoyed a pleasant ride back to the house. During my days here on vacation, got in some 350 miles of very fine riding, and some great memories to get me by until I get back home again. Have enjoyed some fine rides in the region, and am looking forward to some more on my next visit.

Vulcan Riders Association Ride (July 11,2009)

Couple of cell phone photos I took today, got an invite last night to ride with the Vulcan Riders Association (Charlotte Chapter) to Morrow Mountain. We all met at Troutman's Barbeque on NC-29 in Concord, NC. During the business meeting we had lunch. I went with the bbq on a bun topped with red slaw and vinegar sauce; took a while to get used to that when I got here but really enjoy it now. For the ride we had 10 bikes (11 counting mine) and headed out around 12:30. Riders rode all sorts of Vulcan motorcycles; Mean Streak, 1500's, 1600's, 900's, and even a couple of the old 750 Vulcans. Came from all over the area.
I was just at Morrow Mountain last Saturday in fact, but fun to ride with a group, and they were an interesting bunch. The second photo is all of our bikes at the overlook. I love the ride there, go through some really nice roads, and the ride to the top is a curvy bunch of fun. Due to the Richmond/Concord living thing going on now with me, not sure how often I will be able to ride with them, but sure would not mind at all doing that again. Hot today and somewhat humid, but had a fantastic time and a great ride. It is always fun to ride with a group, especially a group with the same kind of motorcycle that I ride.

Tomorrow, before going back to Richmond Sunday night or Monday, I have one last ride left, and am really looking forward to that one too. Will post on that tomorrow or Monday!

Holiday Riding in Carolina (Part 1)

Friend of mine (who went with me) took this photo at Bike Night at Quaker Steak and Lube on July 8. Quaker Steak on a normal Wednesday night gets close to 900 bikes, weather was iffy but I took a chance (as did my buddy Phil) and we rode out to see what was going on there. I used to be a regular, but with the Richmond transfer (and back to working 3pm-11pm) don't get to go anymore. Besides, Richmond does not seem to have as many bike nights as Carolina does; really popular here. Phil took this photo of me next to the new Kawasaki Voyager 1700. Talked to the owner of this bike and he loved it. This one comes with ABS, a nice feature (especially in the rain) on any motorcycle.
My motorcycle does NOT have ABS, but this week what it does have is a rear gear oil change, new brake fluid in the front and rear brakes, cables lubed, an oil change, and new brake fluid in the clutch. Did all that on Monday; good maintenance is important. I do plan to check and/or clean the air filter this weekend. I put a K+N air filter in it a few years ago, nice to not have to get new filters for the air cleaner, and the K+N does give the Kawasaki Vulcan 1500 a lot more power.
Most of my rides so far have been around town, though last Saturday I did take a good ride to Morrow Mountain which is located in Albemarle, NC (town is also famous as the hometown of Kellie Pickler). Morrow Mountain is a beautiful place with a very fine lookout and draws bikes like flies to honey. Had a nice crowd up there and beautiful views. The fact that the heat was not bad nor the humidity were two more plusses. It was a really great ride!
Having a great week so far being home with my family, and also have enjoyed some really good time on the bike. Getting some badly needed rain today, though it did spoil a ride planned with Steve still many days left before I have to go back to Richmond. I plan to take full advantage of the time left to get some riding in here in one of the best places to ride in the US: North Carolina!

The Bikes of IndyCar

Pretty cool day at Richmond International Raceway on June 27, 2009. Was the day of the SunTrust IndyCar Challenge at Richmond International Raceway. Had a great time (and have a lot of photos on Flickr of the race, and a link to that on my page if you would like to see them). Woman on the moped at left is none other than Danica Patrick who drove the #7 Andretti Green Race car to a fifth place finish at the race. It was a really good event, enjoyed seeing some of the drivers up close and personal, and enjoyed the racetrack. Richmond really has a first rate facility, and it was a ton of fun. I am making plans to go there again next year!


Team Penske drivers and crews bopped around on these small mopeds. Thought they were very cool, and looked like a lot of fun. Always thought that two wheels are one of the best ways to get around, and apparently IndyCar teams are in agreement.
For the record, Scott Dixon won the race which was very fast (pole speed was 167.315) and to be honest really enjoyed how the cars kicked up a nice breeze while running. In fact, it was a perfect Richmond night, and was a really fun time at the racetrack!

Racing Museum Tour Ride (June 22,2009)

As mentioned in my previous post, got in a good ride on Monday June 22, 2009 in Concord, NC. I had also taken a short ride the previous day to visit a friend (we went to Quaker Steak and Lube in Concord). On Monday took care of some state business (got the inspection sticker for the bike, and saw the Fury...also on previous post) and went riding to some of the motorcycle museums. Many of those photos can be seen on my Flickr photo link.
At any case, saw this motorcycle at Hendrick Motorsports. Its a customized Yamaha Star motorcycle, with uprated engine and paint. As I remember the bike had a alligator/shark skin seat. The bike was purchased by Rick Hendrick to support the Jimmie Johnson Foundation. Great displays at the Hendrick Motorsports Museum; it is one of my favorite in the area. I also went to the Roush Racing Museum and also to Earnhardt-Ganassi. All three are near the Concord Regional Airport.
It was a beautiful day for a ride, sunny and hot but the humidity was down, and I had a great time on the bike. Always good to get out. Starting July 3 will be home for some 13 days. I plan to do some bike maintenance, but also should get in some really good rides. I plan to take full advantage of the visit.
On a different note, would like if possible to check out the Joe Gibbs Motocross Racing team. Its a project of his son, and is also located in Mooresville (as is the Toyota team his Dad runs). The team is sponsored by Toyota and Yamaha. I will hopefully do that during my visit home, and will be doing some research on the team (and you can too) via the web.
As always...ride safe!

2010 Honda Fury

I was riding in North Carolina over the weekend of June 20-22, one of the things that had to be done during this trip home was the annual state motorcycle inspection. While getting that done, saw the new Honda Fury. Honda got a late start in the "chopper craze" which may have well faded at this point (as can be seen by the decline in popularity of shows such as "American Chopper" and the other bike building shows of the past few years), though Honda has (as Honda does) made a remarkable version. The bike is based on the VTX1300 engine with fuel injection and water cooling. You can see the radiator just behind the front wheel in this photo.
The bike has a long lean look, in fact it has the longest wheelbase of any Honda motorcycle with a 71.2 inch wheelbase. The thin tank has a 3.4 gallon capacity. I liked the led rear brake lights , and the small "instrument panel" is also very sleek looking. The bike has shaft drive, but like the radiator it is very understated. As is typical of the type, the bike has a large rear tire; a Dunlap 200/50R-18 on the rim. The bike has a five speed transmission. ABS is also available on the bike which has an MSRP of $12,999-$13,499. The ABS is higher at $13,999. The bike comes in silver as seen, also black and there is also a red one. The seat is low, and it was unique to sit on a Honda like this, though it did somewhat remind me of the low seating position on my previous Honda Shadow; though a much longer and leaner bike for sure. The bike weighs in at around 663 pounds but in typical Honda fashion was very balanced. I would have liked to have ridden it, but did not get the opportunity at Ride Now Powersports in Concord, NC where I saw the bike.

Honda certainly is creating some interesting motorcycles even in these difficult times. Along with the Fury, they also have the automatic transmission DN-01 for sale (previously seen on this blog as well), and I have been reading reports that a new V-4 may be coming out soon from Big Red. Honda has been getting a sort of "boring" reputation of late, and has been letting other companies steal their thunder. It is good to see the company responding of late with a number of interesting bikes (including some very highly regarded sport bikes). I have owned a number of Honda motorcycles over the year, and am always interested in what the company has to offer.