Tell us about yourself and your bike!

[BradfordBenn]

Very nice...

[dzimbric]

I've been taking the RT offroad more and more since I have been visititng AZ. For those of you that don't know me I am a member of the rounders and try hard to ride year round. Anyway I kept taking the '04 Rt off road and it kept getting dirty.
Well I started cleaning it last week and taking off all that tupperware and the more I removed and the more I cleaned, the more it seemed to change. Here is what I found under all the tupperware and mud.

http://dzimbric.smugmug.com/photos/21163168-M.jpg
Photo taken on Route 66 in CA after leaving the RawHyde Adventure Rally in CA.

[BradfordBenn]

Congrats.

[SpartySam]

Hi, this is really my first full year for riding. I have two bikes - 2001 R1100S and a F650GS (my commuter). Currently, I am a professor of Operations and Supply Chain Management at Michigan State University. Hope to hook up with some riders from the Lansing area for some full rides.

Except for the lack of a local BMW motorcycle dealer, enjoying the bikes.

Steven A. Melnyk

[bmwmotowoman]

Hello, my name is Donna and I LOVE to ride a motorcycle-'05 F650GSAL. Before last year, I was riding on the backseat of a K1200LT. I hope more women choose to ride their own bike because it is much more fun.
I am an elementary music teacher and I have a husband and a 2 year old. Many of my friends say that I am crazy for learning how to ride a bike after I had my first child-I completely disagree. I hope to meet more women riders that have the same view I do-I wouldn't ride a bike 10 years ago, now all I want to do is ride. :bikes

[BMWBeauty]

Hello, my name is Donna and I LOVE to ride a motorcycle-'05 F650GSAL. Before last year, I was riding on the backseat of a K1200LT. I hope more women choose to ride their own bike because it is much more fun.
I am an elementary music teacher and I have a husband and a 2 year old. Many of my friends say that I am crazy for learning how to ride a bike after I had my first child-I completely disagree. I hope to meet more women riders that have the same view I do-I wouldn't ride a bike 10 years ago, now all I want to do is ride. :bikes

Hi Donna.....I Share Your Passion For Riding As Well..... :D....Like You I Started Riding On The Back Of A Bike...... I Thought I Looked Good On The Back Of A Bike.....BUT I Look Better On The Front Of My OWN Bike...... :p
I Have A K75RT And I LOVE That Bike......I Took The MSF Course, And I Am Definitely Glad I Did.....I Don't Have Husband....And I Am Definitely NOT Looking For One......Nursing Is My Chosen Career..... Not Being Dependent Waiting On A Man To Ride With......Priceless.....My Bike Was A Challenge For Me At First...I Am 5'1" And Weigh 115....But I Was Determined....
Best Of Luck To You....... :clap

[SheRidesABeemer]

Hello, my name is Donna and I LOVE to ride a motorcycle-'05 F650GSAL. Before last year, I was riding on the backseat of a K1200LT. I hope more women choose to ride their own bike because it is much more fun.
I am an elementary music teacher and I have a husband and a 2 year old. Many of my friends say that I am crazy for learning how to ride a bike after I had my first child-I completely disagree. I hope to meet more women riders that have the same view I do-I wouldn't ride a bike 10 years ago, now all I want to do is ride. :bikes

Welcome Donna, I got my license when my daughter was 4. My now ex husband said "no wife of his was going to ride". LOL, he was right, I rode off 4 months later. My daughter is now 10 and we do more rides together.
You absolutley can have it all! :wave

Gail

[bluestune]

Found my 1976 R90/6 in a clients garage. The engine was in several boxes, the gas tank sitting on the floor in the corner and the Vetter faring was behind the garage. I was in love! $500 later the pile of parts was mine.

My original thought was to hone my motorcycle wrenching skills on this bike, but I'm no wrench, so off to the BMW shop it went. A few months later I'm ridding a BMW.

Motorcycling started for me sometime in the mid to late 60's with a Honda Trail 90, then a Honda 175, followed by a Triumph 250 and a Kawasaki 350 enduro. Fast forward through a couple decades and ex-wives to a Kawasaki KLR 650 and now the R90. I really regret not ridding during most of the 80's and 90's.

I'm now married to a very wonderful woman who still likes me. I've been a photographer my entire professional life, shooting corporate, industrial and advertising gigs. Right now I'm employed by one of my former clients working at a realy great job. I'll post a shot of me "down the road somewhere." Here's a shot of the R90/6.

[ian408]

...
Here's a shot of the R90/6.

Nice bokeh (nice bike too!).

Welcome!

Ian

[ian408]

Hi Donna.....I Share Your Passion For Riding As Well..... :D....Like You I Started Riding On The Back Of A Bike...... I Thought I Looked Good On The Back Of A Bike.....BUT I Look Better On The Front Of My OWN Bike...... :p
I Have A K75RT And I LOVE That Bike......I Took The MSF Course, And I Am Definitely Glad I Did.....I Don't Have Husband....And I Am Definitely NOT Looking For One......Nursing Is My Chosen Career..... Not Being Dependent Waiting On A Man To Ride With......Priceless.....My Bike Was A Challenge For Me At First...I Am 5'1" And Weigh 115....But I Was Determined....
Best Of Luck To You....... :clap

Welcome! Nice to have you!

ian

[Cliffy777]

bluestune - nice looking pile of parts you got there. congratulations.

[snorfer]

Hello new to the board. I started riding in the 1960's on British bikes. The fist one an Ariel red hunter 500cc single enduro bike. I now ride an old R65 around town beauty black of course and a 2001 1150 GS silver streak. In a couple of years hope to retire and do some long distance traveling on the GS. I work in the construction field and build custom houses. Hope to see some of you on the roads won't be able to make the rally this year but next year? Alan

[bluestune]

Welcome aboard Snorfer!

[fastdogs2]

I traded in my R1200C on a new R1200RT a week before the BMWMOA Rally in Lima. I rode the RT from NC to Lima. This was my break-in and getting acquainted ride with the new bike.

I enjoyed the Rally tremendously! I went on one of the mapped rides to see the covered bridges and eat the the Der Dutchman restaurant.

On my trip back to NC, I stopped at the Air Force Museum in Dayton. I was like a kid, running from one hangar to the next to see the vintage planes.

I look forward to reading this forum and especially learning more about the RT from the more experienced riders here.

[Cliffy777]

welcome aboard. how about sharing with us some of the differences you experienced (good and bad) between the two bikes???

[SheRidesABeemer]

I now have 3 decades of K bikes in my garage. :thumb
Pay no attention to the chrome in the corner, it's not mine. (but goes a long way to explain the title under my avitar :heart )

Life is good.
Gail

[IAMBOB]

I thought I had already posted in here, but after reading HOW MANY posts? I noticed I haven't. Anyways, I'm Bob, 42 (look 27 so I think) and am the daddy to four kids.. They start at 21 and decrease by three until you reach my youngest daughter 12... I live in Southern MD where the Potomac Empties into the Bay. Having moved here two years ago, after graduating from college, I learned to sail and race occasionally. I retired from the Army after 20 years in November 2000, and actually got paid to drive Bradleys and M1's around, well for the first ten years, then they made me a recruiter, and tried to convince all these kids that being cold wet and miserable was FUN.. which leads me to my BMW!!

Well, there I was surfing the internet.. it was a warm day in June. My brother sent me a link to a local BMW Dealership in Columbia MD, he's been on a Beemer for a few years now, FINALLY trading up from his 850 Suzuki I believe..
SO, I haven't been on a bike since the early 80's at Ft Knox, (you want thrilling.. dodge M1 tanks on a motorcylce on a tank trail!!) and I go to this link.. and there it is.. a sign from GOD.. well the motorcyle God anyways.. a 2002 Silver R1150RS gleaming in the sun, with the message from god behind it in 6 foot tall letters.. Bob's BMW.. well being one not to ignore messages from supreme beings I hightailed it to Bobs in my truck with the Vanity plate that reads "itsbob".. Damn I love myself!! I get there, and they ALMOST had me talked into a red 2004 1150R.. but everytime i looked at the Silver RS I swear I could hear Angels singing... So after much debate, I travelled back to Bob's, it was 50 degrees and raining .. so not only did they get to sell me a bike, they also got to sell me $500 worth of riding gear, and then after the warm up ride down the street and back another $35 for gloves.. But I tell you what, the 100 mile trip back home in the cold rain, I was IMPRESSED.. not a sniffle from the bike, I was toasty warm.. and kept looking for steam to be rising up from the heated hand grips. Well, it's been 2.5 almost 3 months, 6000 miles.. and we're inseperable. OF course I do have to give credit where credit is due, my truck gets 13 MPG when it moves, gets a LOT better when it's parked in the driveway, that does have something to do with it.. But I've joined BMWBMW, BMWMOA.. and am always shopping for stuff (I think I see this referred to as "Farkle"), and will be on my way.

I'm a little off of the beaten path.. end of the world you could say.. only one way to get here, and only one way out of here, but am looking forward to meeting some if not most of you, on a ride, at a rally.. at lunch?


Her's my Baby all decked out for the ill fated trip to Lima Ohio!!
http://www.imagestation.com/picture/sraid178/p891a2ef77efe4671f16c0a5e2f3d96f9/f31d90e7.jpg

http://www.imagestation.com/picture/sraid178/pdfab455200db746a7e571dce192c3a07/f31d9074.jpg

See the unearthy glow around the bike?? Can you hear the angels too??

Just wondering how long I'm going to last before I trade up(?) to the RT.. damn that is one pretty bike!!

[Visian]

... (you want thrilling.. dodge M1 tanks on a motorcylce on a tank trail!!)

Ha! I actually did this once, out at Ft. Hunter-Liggett in CA. Somehow I managed to come in a back way on the G/SPD and found myself in the middle of about eight tanks that looked like they were on their way to somewhere in a big hurry.

Thank GOD they weren't actually shooting because the area had many trees that were all wrenched and gnarly... looking like they'd had the ever-loving crap blown out of them.

Ian

[lorazepam]

Hi Donna.....I Share Your Passion For Riding As Well..... :D....Like You I Started Riding On The Back Of A Bike...... I Thought I Looked Good On The Back Of A Bike.....BUT I Look Better On The Front Of My OWN Bike...... :p
I Have A K75RT And I LOVE That Bike......I Took The MSF Course, And I Am Definitely Glad I Did.....I Don't Have Husband....And I Am Definitely NOT Looking For One......Nursing Is My Chosen Career..... Not Being Dependent Waiting On A Man To Ride With......Priceless.....My Bike Was A Challenge For Me At First...I Am 5'1" And Weigh 115....But I Was Determined....
Best Of Luck To You....... :clap

So how many miles do you have on that bike this summer?

[nipper]

John Williams_ I got my first BMW 17 days ago. R1200RT. This bike is even better than I expected. I'm getting old. I wanted a light, agile bike that would be suitable for touring. The first service was done last Thursday. After some good weekend riding my only question is: Will I ever want to ride my Harley again?

[Honu]

I still don't have a digital camera, but I have been getting disks. I finally got a picture of me with my bike. This is before I took off to Chico, Ca. via Lassen park, last week. (Pre-helmet head).

[BradfordBenn]

Nice shot :thumb

[IAMBOB]

Ha! I actually did this once, out at Ft. Hunter-Liggett in CA. Somehow I managed to come in a back way on the G/SPD and found myself in the middle of about eight tanks that looked like they were on their way to somewhere in a big hurry.



Ian
When we had the Old M60 tanks and M113 APC's they only could go 35MPH, and were fairly uncontrollable at those speeds (the 113 would actually start to "float") the road march speed was limited to 15 - 20.. The M1 and the M2/3 are comfortable at 50 MPH (M1 has been clocked at 108 MPH), and are controllabe at any speed, so they basically get up and go.. They are ALWAYS in a hurry to get wherever it is they are going.

[spinner]

My name is Mark and I drive a 04 1150 RT, it's my 1st Bmer. I live near the Missippi river near Red Wing, MN. I am a potter by trade. I'm 49,have 3 grown children, and have been divorced for a few years. I got into cycles again about 5 years ago after riding them as a kid. Now I'm a big kid and want to stay that way as long as possible. Most of my friends are married and don't ride so I'd love to hear from ya if you need a riding buddy, especially if you be female. :wave

[Bensonhurst]

http://allegretti.us/mcy/married.jpg

click on link for the whole story = a motorcycle history of a Brooklyn boy (http://allegretti.us/history.html)

[Belg]

My Story:

Born and raised California boy, currently living in exile in Virginia. I left California in March '99 with Cinedra (K75), Katrina (KZ750... broken) and all my belongings for a new job at the top of my industry, UUNET, working as a shift unix systems adminsitrator. Long move, but worth it financially. I spent 3.5 years there, then learned about the hard parts of a "trickle-down" economy when Bernie Ebbers' "trickle-down" layoffs for his loans cost me my job. I went to Raytheon and have been there doing much the same thing ever since, for different people.

I got into computers in '95, starting off as "Belg" with internic whois to boot; taken from "Belgarath" who was a character created by David Eddings who shifted form man to wolf; in an online chat room called "#wolfspirit" on undernet IRC. I was a founding member. I've lived with wolves for years at that point. For the past 7 years, I've also been known as "Hawk" and "Lyra-Hawk" due to volunteer GameMasterring and Systems Administration for Lyra Studios and their online roleplaying game Underlight (http://www.underlight.com) for whom I am senior staff.

Hawks and Wolves have both played a major part in my life, ("Did you know that hawks and wolves mate for life?" - Rutger Hauer, Ladyhawke) I've always been around Hawks. They've kept me out of trouble. I can't explain it, so don't bother asking. Wolves... I've always had a very special bond with. Never met one who didn't like me, wouldn't answer to me, or didn't bond with me. Within a week, I can countermand commands from owners. The wolves just treat me as Alpha.

Needless to say, I've spent years answerring to Wolf, Hawk, and Belg, and even occasionally, my given name... Mark.

http://www.fourwindsbar.com/picture_library/BMW/Belg-Profile.jpg

I'm single, have a beautiful house out in the hills on a nice, quiet acre 200 feet or so from the appalachian trail, 4 miles from the top end of Skyline Drive in the Shenandoah National Park, and have a great orange cat named officially "Tangerine" but answers to Cat, Kitty, and dumb*ss

My story with Motorcycles:

http://fourwindsbar.com/gallery/albums/bmw/IMG_0380.jpg

All stories have a beginning, and mine started in a back field in a small "town" called Latrobe, (http://www.pashnit.com/roads/cal/LatrobeRd.htm) CA on the back of a two-wheeled lawn-mower powerred scooter. Much fun was had, but at the ripe age of 12, you don't get to go very far on two wheels.

Parallel to yon road you see was railroad tracks, and my best friend (who still lives there) was at the other end of those tracks, past a couple of one lane bridges. At the manly age of 14, I discoverred that my uncle had an old one-banger bike called a Jawa rusting away behind his shed. I immediately enrolled in a "shop primer" course in my freshman year contingent on the teacher letting me rebuild the bike for a project. After many gasps from my family (We're all computer people) I ended up coming out with a running, stripped to the bone dirt bike,

I spent the next year or so tearing up the fire breaks along the tracks, in any weather, muddier the better. 75 foot long mud powerslides. Hitting puddles at 50. Found myself 15 feet in the air a couple times on the back dirt roads, and in general, tried everything in my power to injure myself or break the bike, and couldn't. So I bought another one.. a Kawasaki KD-175 from my neighbor, who'd bored it to 190 and had it decked for motocross. Rode that one out too, and eventually sold it to a neighbor kid who wanted to learn to ride. As far as I know, it's still riding...

I managed to surivive to graduate high school, mucked about for a bit in college, and moved to Santa Cruz shortly after Loma Prieta. My best friend was loving down there at the time, and after I went down to help clean up two days after... I stayed. He picked up a Kawa KZ-650, but didn't know how to clutch (He'd had a 3-wheel honda) so I rode it home.

Boy, what a door THAT cracked open. That ride was from a shop on River St in Santa Cruz (blue building, I south side, forgot name) up to our place in Ben Lomond, up Hwy 9. If you've ever ridden it, you know why I fell in love with riding. Once I figured out that a 650 can pass cars like noone's business, I never went back.

I saw a BMW driving down the road and thought man, what a pretty bike. So, around March of '90, I went by Plam BMW in Aptos to look at bikes. I saw this pretty, Cobalt Blue K75S and tried and denied financing. I sighed and went home.

Not 3 months later, my other housemate, Peter, found a Kawa 750 LTD in a field. We rebuilt it from the ground up, and when he left for summer tour (Grateful Dead, man) he sold me the bike. I raced that thing all over the SC mountains in all weather, all levels of sobriety.

Eventually ('94) I soberred up (mostly), moved back to Sacramento, and started looking at real jobs. One problem I had was that I was throwing 600$ every 6 months keeping the Kawa on the road, so I got it in my head to go get a Harley. I drove down to the Harley dealer in Orangevale, California.. where I was told that there was a waiting list, yadda, yadda, found the salesman not rude but curt... and had passed a A&S BMW on the way there... so I drove up a block and figured I'd have a look.

Salesman there was very nice, was showing me around the bikes, and we find something in my price range, a BEAUTIFUL red K75, C fairing. Used, 14k on it. I look at the speedo, notice it was at about 14 miles. It had been in an accident he said, and they mic'd the whole bike out for the repair, the original owner wanted it gone (wife maybe?). It used to be a K75S, but they decided that it was cheaper to put a C fairing on it, paint it red, and sell it for $1k less. Seemed like good logic in my book. So I looked at the back of this '90 BMW... and sure as the morning sunrise, was the plate frame that sits on there still.. PLAM BMW. I asked him "What color was it orginally?"

"Cobalt Blue."

Needless to say, the bike I'd tried and denied, was to become my ride. I put what was left of my college savings down on the bike and rode it off. The way she handled was so smooth, I had to give her a name. She was christenned Cinedra that very day.

That bike and I have been through a lot, I did lay it down once (fog, left turn lane, 20 on oil, slid into curb) and had to have it repainted. My buddy with the 650 (GPZ 750 now, after I crashed his 650) did the paint job, he's one of the best antique restorations specialists in the world. He did the false marbleization on my luggage rack.

http://fourwindsbar.com/gallery/albums/bmw/IMG_0377.jpg

Alas, UPS scratched the tank and some other parts on delivery, and I had to have the tank repainted.. but never quite made it. I ended up replacing the tank this spring with some fancy computer color matching.

I've gotten 3 offers to sell it since I mentioned I was looking at a 1200GS, but there's a snowball's chance in the lowest pit of hades I'm going to ever part with this bike (http://www.fourwindsbar.com/gallery/bmw)

[Sturgeon46]

Steve Whittles, Minnesota. '01 R1200C Phoenix, current. '82 R100RT, previous. '06 R1200GS, next.

[Mika]

Welcome to the forum! Where in Minnesota are you from? Tell us more about yourself and what kind of riding you are in to. :clap

[SKS46LT05]

I'm 46 years old and have lived with the finest woman on the planet-Dorothy-for about the past seven years now. We recently relocated from Virginia City/Reno NV to Nashville, TN for employment demands.

We currently rent out our home in the mountains and live in still another home we purchased in the heart of suburbia here on Percy Priest lake about 5 miles or so east of Nashville (but when it's time to return to our beloved mountains, we know this house will sell quick).

I, having recently finished my Masters Degree in Public Administration, took a job in a completely unrelated field and now provide loans for mortgages, refis,etc (Realty Mortgage Corporation (RMC) (http://www.realtymortgage.com/) ).

We have three grown children who are all on various paths to healthy, successful and productive lives and lucky for us, we are still reasonably young enough to enjoy some of the finer things in our life besides flavored gruel at the nursing home.

I've been a lifelong motorcycle enthusiast and have owned a plethora of bikes over the past 30 years, the most notable-prior to my brand spanking new 2005 K1200LT-was the 550 Honda Nighthawk i purchased new in 1984 and subsequently drove to every state in the nation exept Alaska and Hawaii over the next 3 years. That bike died a painful death with 78,000 miles on the odometer--with me on it-when some kid in a camaro made a left turn in front of me and took me out at 50 miles an hour. One of the most memorably ugly sites i'll ever remember was seeing that bike, it's front end ripped from the frame, doing cartwheels towards me as i sailed through the air backwards.

Being of modest income for most of my life, most of the machines i owned have been used and i had, up until about 5 days ago, been dreaming of the day when i could actually afford to purchase the bike of my dreams, the K1200LT. I have been drooling over that machine since its introduction in 1998 and i am proud to say that i have finally achieved that goal.

We'll be enjoying touring on our new LT as we have friends and family in Michigan, Florida, Texas, Louisiana, Nevada and California, as well as here in Nashville, and now that we're members of the BMW owners group, we hope to expand our circle of friends and adventures by participating in events, rallies and get togethers with all of YOU, too!

May you all ride free and far, living life to the fullest and treating everyone you come across the way you would like to be treated yourselves!

Peace, love and Bobby Sherman to all!


http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/5720/928/320/Nez2.jpg

http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/5720/928/1600/djc1.0.jpg :wave

[rgvilla]

Well, I guess I'll join in this little exercise in ego. When I was 11 I wanted a m/c so bad I could taste it. I had a paper route in SF NM where I grew up and one of my customers had an ariel square 4. I would hang out with him and talk about motorcycles. My dad said if you want one save so I did and bought a used cushman eagle scooter. I delivered papers on it for two years and even rode it in the snow and ice in Santa Fe. I moved up to a harley davidson hummer, 125cc two stroke and when I was 16 got a BSA 441. After a tour of duty with uncle sugar I came home and sold the BSA and got a new 1970 Honda 750 4. I rode that all thru college, once going from Albuquerque to Boston and back on it. Rode all over mexico as well. I was a motorcyle cop for a couple of years on a harley police bike and my personal ride was by this time a 76 Honda Gold Wing. I also had a 1984 Harley sportster XLX. worst bike I ever owned! In 1992 I purchased a 1976 R90/6 to go along with my Kawasaki ZX-11. That was one great bike. I rode it to the 1994 GP races at Monterrey and to the BMWMOA rally in Durango. My brother wanted me to take the /6 as he had a /5 but I just couldn't resist having that rice burner around all those BMW's. I wasn't a member then and thought BMW riders were a little stuck up. Changed my mind after that rally though, what a great bunch of people. Currently I live in Rural Valley Pa. on a 72 acre farm and ride my 99 R1100R as much as possible. I try to comute to Pittsburgh on it as much as possible where I work as an investigator for the Federal Public Defender. My wife is a horse person so we have 4 horses, 3 dogs, six cats and a bunch of chickens. She teaches at Indiana University of Pa. and doesn't ride. I cant tell you how many (hundreds) of thousands of miles I've ridden but I've never been without a bike since I was 12 and I'm now 55. Right now it's snowing and the beemer is in the barn. I'll post pics later. I enjoyed the rally in Lima and plan to ride up to vermont next summer. It's nice to be a part of such a great group of people. Ride safe.

[Gravity]

I've owned BMW autos since 1987 and always fantasized about motorcycles. I wasn't actually sure I was going to get a BMW bike but as luck would have it, I had one fall into my lap. I took a MSF at a local Harley dealership because unlike many of you, I have ZERO skillz. Sitting on a Buell the morning of the MSF workshop was my first ride.

I found this '98 R1100R in the paper and went to see it. With just a hair over 2k on the odometer I was sure I found a pearl of a bike. It's clean like it's never been ridden and the mechanic tells me he's jealous.

I rode nearly 200 miles this weekend and plan to put my but on it every chance I get. I'm enjoying riding and the club very much so far.

[jeneralist]

My turn, I guess...

My first ride was on the back of a UJM for all of about 10 miles around Gnadenhutten, OH with my Uncle Greg when I was 13. Didn't think about motorcycles until one day in my late 20s: I was just sitting at home trying to study on a Sunday but kept getting distracted by the sound of motorcycles. Seems someone had routed a group ride -- for about 200 bikes! -- past my front door. I realized that the riders were having more fun than I was. Signed up for the MSF class, got a 400cc Yamaha Seca, and never looked back.

Rode the Seca from NJ back to Ohio and realized that going 55mph, top speed up a hill, on Rt 80 was not a Good Thing. Got a 1981 Suzuki GS850 in the early 90s. That bike, <i>Tookish</i>, and I made a pretty good team for over a decade. But now I'm planning the Big Trip. Summer 2006 I want to spend just riding -- maybe Hyder? Maybe Coldfoot? Maybe just Banff? -- and I wanted a smooth bike with ABS. Got the 1992 K75RT on Ebay around Thanksgiving.

As for the rest of my life: my wonderful husband rides an R65, but he never gets time for long trips. He's the commuter, I'm the tourer. I used to be a computer consultant / information systems engineer, until my life looked too much like "Dilbert." Went back to school (that's why I was studying that summer day all those years ago); these days I'm a Family Medicine physician -- so I can b*tch about the AMA <i>and</i> the AMA.

Right now, the K75 is partially disassembled in the garage, so I don't have pictures of it yet. This'll have to do for now.

[BuffaloBob]

Howdy,
I started out with a Lil' Indian minibike back in 1969. Graduated to a CT70 in 1970. Picked up another Honda, an MT125 in 1977. Rode my roommate's BMW R90/6 around that time as well, but, being a poor college student, had to make do with the 125. Moved up to an RD350 in 1980 - that thing was a rocket. Bought a Kaw EX500 in 1987, a Yamaha RZ500 in 1998, an RZ350 in 1999 (later totaled by a car), another dirtbike (Kaw KLR250) in 2003, another RZ500 in 2004, and finally, a BMW R100S a couple of week ago.

I was finally able to take it for a ride today as it was in the upper 40's here by Detroit. What a cool bike! I hope to have several rides around MI this summer. I'm hoping to find an "S" fairing, as I like that look better than the one currently on the bike (but I did stay nice and toasty today behind that barn door!), and I might even put the battery side covers on.

[kbasa]

Hey Jen, my doctor rides too! :thumb

[heidelberg]

Hello-
I am a 14-year member of MOA who moved to Roanoke, VA specifically for the riding. I've been here since July 'o5, and I live one mile from the entrance at milepost 121. I just cannot believe the roadside TRASH I see on nearly every joyride, north or south! How can any human being feel good about tossing WENDY'S dinner for four out the window of the SUV on the Blue Ridge Parkway?!?! I see more trash in the ten miles that skirt Roanoke than the next 100+ to the Skyline Drive. It is downright disgusting and makes me hate 4-wheelers even more than normal.

[RedHotRT]

I'm also a new member of MOA and live in Québec, Canada A.K.A. 'The Great White North'. A wonderful place to visit in the summer (especially on a bike).
Right now, I've got about 6' of snow on my front lawn.
I guess Global Warming forgot about my town.....

My current bike is a 2003 1150GS which I bought for a great price in 2004 as the dealer was making room for the new and improved 1200GS model coming in.
Anyways, I've had the bike for two years and may be trading up for a new 2006 1200RT. It would be a bit more comfortable (better wind protection) as well.

Any comments on the new 1200RT would be appreciated.

Look forward to hearing from you all.

Regards,

Patrick

[bikelawyer]

:bikes
I am a two wheeled lawyer/musician whose law practice has included 100+ "bike" cases involving injured riders. I've been bicycling for years and just started riding motorcycles last fall after taking the MSF class. I researched a good "first bike" for a 48 yr old guy who hadn't ridden anything with two wheels and a motor since "Ruppsters" in elementary school. The F650 kept coming up as a good, nimble, quick, reliable machine that one wouldn't tire of after riding it for a while. I think the thing that sold me was The Chain Gang website, and the passion the 650's owners seem to have for thie rmachines ... this took me back a few years to my Jeep Wrangler days - call it brand loyalty, whatever, Wrangler owners flip each other the "J" and love their Tinkertoy Vehicles with the removeable doors, windshield and such! I picked up a 2001 650 GS at a fair price from a lovely young long-legged blonde-haired engineer who worked for Honda, of all places. She needed the cash to buy a house, and I liked the red bike with the aluminum bags! After a decidedly wobbly start [I almost did a wheelie my first time on the road and learned a valuable lesson from Mr. Torque...], I've been riding as often as I can. I regularly commuted the 20 miles to downtown Cincinnati, 70 mph, bumper to bumper on the 3 lanes of Columbia Parkway, and I have hooked my 11 yr old, who thinks it's damn cool to show up for 6th grade on the back of a bike. I rode all winter and just this week finally experienced the joy of riding without wishing I had gotten a bike with heated grips! My new job includes a gorgeous ride through some of Cincinnati's finest wooded neighborhoods. Now, I'm planning a trip from Cincinnati to Santa Fe, along Route 66... should be interesting.

[BradfordBenn]

Welcome to the fun!

[Stuff2C]

:bikes
I am a two wheeled lawyer/musician whose law practice has included 100+ "bike" cases involving injured riders. I've been bicycling for years and just started riding motorcycles last fall after taking the MSF class. I researched a good "first bike" for a 48 yr old guy who hadn't ridden anything with two wheels and a motor since "Ruppsters" in elementary school. The F650 kept coming up as a good, nimble, quick, reliable machine that one wouldn't tire of after riding it for a while. I think the thing that sold me was The Chain Gang website, and the passion the 650's owners seem to have for thie rmachines ... this took me back a few years to my Jeep Wrangler days - call it brand loyalty, whatever, Wrangler owners flip each other the "J" and love their Tinkertoy Vehicles with the removeable doors, windshield and such! I picked up a 2001 650 GS at a fair price from a lovely young long-legged blonde-haired engineer who worked for Honda, of all places. She needed the cash to buy a house, and I liked the red bike with the aluminum bags! After a decidedly wobbly start [I almost did a wheelie my first time on the road and learned a valuable lesson from Mr. Torque...], I've been riding as often as I can. I regularly commuted the 20 miles to downtown Cincinnati, 70 mph, bumper to bumper on the 3 lanes of Columbia Parkway, and I have hooked my 11 yr old, who thinks it's damn cool to show up for 6th grade on the back of a bike. I rode all winter and just this week finally experienced the joy of riding without wishing I had gotten a bike with heated grips! My new job includes a gorgeous ride through some of Cincinnati's finest wooded neighborhoods. Now, I'm planning a trip from Cincinnati to Santa Fe, along Route 66... should be interesting.

Got a card? :rolleyes

[jerryb]

Hey, folks. My name is not in fact Harvey Mushman, it's Tim White. I'm 29, married to the lovely and gracious Lady Pamela, and the father of 3 fur-kids. Two-legged kids are probably not too far down the road. Pam and I are both graduates of the University of Georgia. She is a teacher and I am employed as a writer (technical and otherwise) by a federal contractor in Virginia.

I started riding in Feb. '01, on a '00 Kawasaki ZR-7. It was (and is--it's for sale!) a great bike and I put nearly 30K miles on it in two years. But I wanted something more broadly capable, something to take me wherever I wanted to go with ease. So I bought a '02 R1150GS this past Feb. and I'm very happy I did. In 12K miles I've found it to be a fun and capable commuter, backroad explorer, trackday weapon, and two-up wanderer.

Assuming there is no snow or ice, I ride to work every day and spend most of my free time searching for new roads (paved and non) in the Virginia and West Virginia hills.

Hello.
http://harveymushman.smugmug.com/photos/150623-M.jpg

Be careful out there, Pam says.
http://harveymushman.smugmug.com/photos/223682-M.jpg


Harvey Mushman? I attended a Penton/Husky dealer open house a lot of yrs. ago that John Penton Sr. attended. That was a trivia question: "What name did Steve McQueen use......". Thanks for the memory.

jerryb

[jerryb]

:wave
Howdy, Fish, Harvey, Mr. & Mrs. Kbasa and others ...
Name's Dan Pennell, a native of Columbus, OH where I still reside (luckily only about 4 miles from a BMW dealer).
I began riding in the mid-70s while in college. I'm not the type to casually jump into something, so I threw myself into motorcycling, reading everything I could get my hands on, learning everything I could. I did a little traveling but didn't have much of a budget. I rode Japanese bikes for about 12 years, got married, bought my first house - you can see it coming, can't you? - and sold my trusty Kawasaki KZ750. It was now time to be "responsible" and "safe".
Of course, that turned out to be quite boring, so I jumped back into bikes in a big way (literally) in 1993 with the purchase of a new GL1500 Gold Wing. But I had always secretly yearned for a BMW since reading the late Roger Hull's Road Rider magazine in the 70s.
A few years later - you can see it coming, can't you? - I got divorced and suddenly the Wing lost its appeal to me. It was time for something more sporting, yet still capable of cross-country travel. A lightly-used '96 R1100RT was my first dive into BMW ownership and it was love at first sight, sound, and feel. The fit, finish, quality, ergonomics and aesthetics of the Boxer Twin seemed to speak to me in a way no other bike had ...
Fast forward a couple of years and - you can see it coming, can't you? - I got remarried. The RT left a little to be desired 2-up, so I opted for the then-new K1200LT. Fantastic luxury tourer! I put 22,500 miles on the bike in short order, figuring I'd have it forever.
However, my wife didn't take to riding quite the way I'd planned and I was once again getting a serious hankering for another Boxer Twin, the GS in particular. That funky styling, the do-anything, go-anywhere spirit of the bike began to work on my soul again and before long, the LT was history, replaced by a black R1150GS.
I have my complaints about BMWs, mainly the expensive and too-frequent maintenance chores, but I have a hard time picturing myself on any other machines from this point on. Beemers are a quirky mix of tradition (the boxer engine), high tech (the Telelever suspension) and deliciously bold and ballsy styling. Plus the fact, when purchasing a BMW, the owner becomes a part of a very unique group of men and women who appreciate and even revel in riding something different than anything else on the market ...

Me posing near a famous road sign recently while in Missouri:


http://bmwrider.smugmug.com/photos/279517-M.jpg

And my bike:

http://bmwrider.smugmug.com/photos/290084-M.jpg


Nice writing.

[czrider]

"Don't take life too seriously, because you never get out of it alive."
:twirl
:beer

:rofl

[czrider]

Got a card? :rolleyes
Hi LawerBiker,
Welcome to riding a Beemer :thumb

I wish you Millions of miles of safe/ exhilerating rides. :brad

[bikelawyer]

Thanks! I'm "gearing up" for my first solo ride... 1500 miles from Cincy to Santa Fe leaving Tuesday... weather prediction RAIN of course... My hope is to ride all morning - find a WiFi spot from 12-3 and do a day's work - then ride til I tire... we'll see...

Steve Magas
BikeLawyer@aol.com
513-484-BIKE

I do bicycle and motorcycle cases, primarily - I've done hundreds of personal injury cases since 1982. I'm working on getting my motorcycle law website up and running. My bicycle lawyer website is http://www.bicycleattorney.com/Ohio.htm
I've been called into bike cases in KY, IN, NJ, FL, VA and of course many in OH~

Also, I handle pretty much any type of dispute resolution in matters where people are thinking suing somebody... I normally try to dissuade normal folks from lawsuits... they're expensive, time consuming, anxiety provoking and simply no fun for anyone but the lawyers!

SM

[kbasa]

Thanks! I'm "gearing up" for my first solo ride... 1500 miles from Cincy to Santa Fe leaving Tuesday... weather prediction RAIN of course... My hope is to ride all morning - find a WiFi spot from 12-3 and do a day's work - then ride til I tire... we'll see...

Steve Magas
BikeLawyer@aol.com
513-484-BIKE

I do bicycle and motorcycle cases, primarily - I've done hundreds of personal injury cases since 1982. I'm working on getting my motorcycle law website up and running. My bicycle lawyer website is http://www.bicycleattorney.com/Ohio.htm
I've been called into bike cases in KY, IN, NJ, FL, VA and of course many in OH~

Also, I handle pretty much any type of dispute resolution in matters where people are thinking suing somebody... I normally try to dissuade normal folks from lawsuits... they're expensive, time consuming, anxiety provoking and simply no fun for anyone but the lawyers!

SM

We'd rather this wasn't used as advertising. :buds

Thanks, man.

[kbasa]

Thanks! I'm "gearing up" for my first solo ride... 1500 miles from Cincy to Santa Fe leaving Tuesday... weather prediction RAIN of course... My hope is to ride all morning - find a WiFi spot from 12-3 and do a day's work - then ride til I tire... we'll see...

Steve Magas
BikeLawyer@aol.com
513-484-BIKE

I do bicycle and motorcycle cases, primarily - I've done hundreds of personal injury cases since 1982. I'm working on getting my motorcycle law website up and running. My bicycle lawyer website is http://www.bicycleattorney.com/Ohio.htm
I've been called into bike cases in KY, IN, NJ, FL, VA and of course many in OH~

Also, I handle pretty much any type of dispute resolution in matters where people are thinking suing somebody... I normally try to dissuade normal folks from lawsuits... they're expensive, time consuming, anxiety provoking and simply no fun for anyone but the lawyers!

SM

We'd rather this place wasn't used for advertising sort of stuff. :buds

You can send Stuff2C a PM with all that. :D

Thanks! No worries!

[Stuff2C]

We'd rather this place wasn't used for advertising sort of stuff. :buds

You can send Stuff2C a PM with all that. :D

Thanks! No worries!


Thanks K:huh (does this mean you don't love me anymore?)

That's just what I need is a contingency lawyer looking for work on the BMW web-site. :help

I guess chasing bicycles is safer than chasing ambulances. :dog

[BradfordBenn]

For WiFi Access I like Panera Breads they are free for wireless. Also Starbucks, Barnes & Nobles, Borders, and the good ole public library. Plus you never know what you might find in the anonymous book ;)

[bubbagazoo]

http://www.bubbagazoo.ca/Site/Blog/94C0F0EB-7FA9-456E-AF46-6F6837E0EB6B_files/IM001981.png

OK. That's my new to me, 2000 R1100RT. I am Robert Denis and I live in Edmonton, Alberta. I am married (for the second time) to the lovely Mary Ann :love . That's her and her brand new Kawasaki Vulcan 500 LTD just below.

http://www.bubbagazoo.ca/Site/Motorcycle_files/MA1.jpg

I have two daughters from my first marriage, Amanda (19) and Stephanie (18). Amanda has given me a grandson, Darius (2).

I spent 18 years serving my country in the Canadian Forces. I served in Ottawa (11 years), Inuvik, NWT (2 years), Imperial Beach, California (2 years) and here in Edmonton (2 years). The year that isn't in that total was spent in basic training at Cornwallis, NS and trade training in Kingston, Ontario. I was involved in military communications and wore an Air Force uniform. I took early retirement in 1995 because I really did not want to leave Edmonton. In addition to those postings, I did 4 temporary duty tours at CFS Alert, Nunavut (82 degrees 30 minutes North, 62 degrees 21 minutes West) totalling 23 months. I tell ya - that place is party central north of 80.

Since retiring I have been working as a computer/network support technician. The last 5 years for St. Albert Catholic Schools. BTW, I don't do Windows :laugh .

I began riding motorcycles way back in 1982 while serving at Imperial Beach (down there by San Diego). My first bike was a 1977 Kawasaki KZ400. I rode it for about 8 months until it was stolen. With the insurance money, I bought a 1978 Honda CB500T. I shipped that bike up to Inuvik. While in Inuvik, I sold the Honda and bought a 1982 Yamaha XS650 Heritage Special. I put a Vetter QuickSilver fairing and some Vetter Bagman saddle bags on it and shipped it out to Edmonton where I picked it up. Then, for the heck of it, I rode from Edmonton to San Diego and back over a 2 week period (I had tickets to a Padres game). Then disaster of sorts struck. I put the bike in my mom's barn and did not prep it properly for the winter storage. When I went to pick it up, it had developed some rusting in the transmission. I had the money to fix it but not the time. So I sold it to a motorcycle recycle business. I still have the saddle bags. They are in great shape still.

Fast forward 20 years and two kids later, my desire to ride would not go away. Through the entire time, I kept the fire burning. Every time I saw a bike, I would look longingly at it. At some point during that 20 years, I saw a picture of a BMW RT bike and fell in love with the look and the concept.

A year ago, after 9 years of listening to my begging, Mary Ann decided that it was getting to be time for me to have another motorcycle. She reasoned that it was going to happen anyways so why not now while I am young enough to enjoy it. She told me that I had to save up for it. She suggested my pocket change which I usually just dump on my dresser. I think this was just a ploy to get me to clean up the dresser.

I started shopping and saving. I looked at all the Japanese manufacturer's web sites. Checked the listed prices and decided the bike I liked best in what I figured would be my price range was the Suzuki C50T. A bit more than $10K CDN. Then I rode one. Was not impressed by the noise or the ride quality. The it struck me. I have never been a fan of HD bikes, why would I want one that looked like an HD. So I started the search again. The Kawasaki Concours then grabbed my attention. A bike designed for touring. That was going to be my bike. Then we walked into the local BMW dealer (Argyll Motorsports). And there she was. This beautiful, neonblau, 2000 R1100RT. We talked to the salesman. I looked at the price - a bit higher than the 2006 Concours. I looked at Mary Ann and asked if it would fit in the budget. Having heard my talk lovingly about BMW RT bikes in the past (and knowing that brand new was definitely out of budget). Her response -- "It's what you want, dear." So, I bought it. That was on 7 January. The dealer agreed to store it until it was safe to ride (rain I can live with - ice not a chance). I picked it up on 8 April and have been having a blast with it ever since. I also took a Motorcycle Rider Safety Training course as a refresher because I know I forgot lots of stuff (took an MSF course while at Imperial Beach as well).

Took Mary Ann for her first ever motorcycle ride. Went to the beer store 6 blocks away via the town of Tofield. A trip of about 160 km. 2 weeks later, her second ride - for coffee at her mom and dad's (about 15 blocks) via Onoway (about 200 km round trip). In the mean time, I have been taking 2 or 3 hour rides out and about on weekends with out her.

Then she breaks the news to me. She doesn't like riding on the back of the RT. She says it's boring, she cannot talk to me, she has no control. So I suggest getting her a bike of her own. Her eyes lit up. I did some web shopping and decided on the Vulcan 500 based on displacement, layout, weight and price. She liked the look of it. We went and sat on it. Came back two days later and bought it. I picked it up on 20 May. Started giving her some very basic lessons the following Monday. So far, Spock Jr. has about 50 km on the odometer. Oh, Spock Jr. -- it's a little Vulcan (don't tell my wife I said this - she figures it's a reeeaaaalllllyyyyy bad pun). Officially, I don't name my bikes.

She will get her license next year (she has never had a license of any kind so she is on the graduated licensing program her in Alberta). She will take the same safety course I took this year. Then we will be off exploring together.

[Rich]

Nice write-up. I envy you guys who have wives that ride their own bike! Is that what they call "marrying right"?

Not that I have anything to complain about....

[RedHotRT]

Excellent post, bubba,

Nice to see husband/wife riding.

My wife is quite petite, 5' 95 lbs soaking wet and a novice bike rider.

She rides a Suzuki Marauder which she purchased new last August.

I just picked up a new 1200RT last weekend and can't wipe the grin off my face.......

Good luck to both of you.

Go Oilers Go !!!! :clap

[bikelawyer]

We'd rather this wasn't used as advertising. :buds

Thanks, man.

Sorry for the ad-type posting...somebody said, "got a card" and I ran with it! :banghead

Just got back from Santa Fe~ Grrrrrrreat ride out west, if you discount the 400 mile day of rain... Gorgeous Riding in Santa Fe though.... the "pavement ends" signs were a joy to behold!


SM

[41077]

So you sit on the bike while it's on a trailer pulled by a car?
Just courious— BMW riders do have a rep to uphold.http://www.bmwmoa.org/forum/misc.php?do=getsmilies&wysiwyg=0&forumid=20#

[41077]

So you sit on the bike while it's on a trailer pulled by a car?
Just courious— BMW riders do have a rep to uphold.

[bikelawyer]

I did ride out there.... honest! :violin
I thought that pic came out pretty cute though, so I thought I'd post it...
I'm writing a review of that trailer for BMWMOA, very cool thing - "Trailer In A Bag" - breaks down into like 5 pieces and stores in a big duffle...

[stealthrider]

Been watching the forum for a while and thought it was time to jump in and say hi..

My name is Tim, I’m 45 and been riding for a relatively short time (16 yrs).
Picked up my first BMW on May 5th after being a loyal Honda rider. I must say that I'm very happy with my choice. Another first for me will be attending the National in “it’s not flat” Vermont, And camping to boot.. At least I’m going to start out camping.. I figure that way I’m closer to the beer at night..

[k75s]

You want to be close to the beer in the daytime too :D

[cloudrider]

Hi, my name is Frank and I live in eastern N.C. near the right ocean. I am 55 years old. I love long distance touring, but am not crazy about camping. The weather in our area has never been conducive to pleasant camping. Summer is too hot and winter is too cold, so I never became a fan of the activity.
After putting about 32k miles on a Dynaglide, many with the wife on the pillion. I came to the conclusion that we needed a real touring machine. After finally selling the old Dyna, and rejecting Harley's touring machines as all chrome and no substance, I hot footed it to Morton's BMW in Va. and satisfied a deep lust for a new R1200RT. This unusally intelligent decision I owe to a transplanted friend from San Francisco. He led me to the light and I will forever be in his debt. My wife Artie (and riding buddy) is now a very happy woman.
I am new to BMWs but hope to be around for a long time. If you are ever in the area and need a tour or advice about anything relative to eastern N.C. in particular or the southeast region in general give a call. I will always take time to ride. I have added my info to the anonymous book. Hope to hear from you if you're ever in the area.

[cloudrider]

Thanks for the welcome Statdawg.
I liked my Harley as a cruiser, it's just that I got bored with cruising. I never fit into the "image". I finally realized it was because I wanted to be a motorcyclist and not a biker. I was at my first HOG meeting when the safety officer of the chapter got up in front of the meeting and told the members that there was a bill in the state legislature to do away with the helmet law. He encouraged everyone to write their representatives to support the repeal of the law. I never went back. The mentality of skid lids, doo rags, and bar hopping on a motorcycle eludes me.
I found my Harley to be trustworthy, rugged, but primitive by all other bike standards.
I didn't mean to get on my soap box, but I've been holding that in for a long time. I'm shutting up now!
If you ever get to the Crystal Coast of Carolina be sure to look me up.
:bikes

[BubbaZanetti]

welcome to the fun!

[Obdewla]

My name is Curt and I live in Plano, TX. I have been married 26 years to my wonderful wife Yvonne and we have 3 great kids. This past May I turned 50 and for my birthday present and answer to a minor mid-life crisis, I bought my first BMW... a black 2002 K1200RS. AWESOME bike! Actually, this is my first motorcycle period as I've never owned one before. The last time I rode a motorcycle was 32 years ago when I was a freshman in college on a friends Honda 550 Four.

It's great to be a part of the BMW family and I am really enjoying my K bike. I am slowly getting my miles up and have put around 4700 miles on my black beauty since I bought it. I am having a ball and I am looking forward to doing some touring this fall in the Texas Hill Country.

[Mika]

Welcome Obdewla. Mid-life-crisis? You have not had a mid life crisis until you have spent some time with this bunch. Enjoy the K, keep posting and put a picture of your bike up on the K forum. Welcome

[tessler]

Welcome aboard! Great avatar... my man, FZ! :thumb

[Obdewla]

Thanks M1ka & tessler for the welcome aboard greetings.

My K12RS is basically stock although I have added a few things mainly for looks. It is easy to see where what little money I have left over for myself at the end of each month will be going for the foreseeable future! Whether it's clothing, performance enhancements, aesthetics or touring accessories it is absolutely endless. I guess that's why someone came up with credit cards... hmmm.

As for the avatar, yes FZ. If my aunt only knew what she got started when she gave me that Hot Rats album when I was 13!

[eddie]

Beautiful RS Obdewla,I know you'll love it.

[wildwilly]

Greetings, Folks:
I am a new member as of 8/31/06 (#1273490). I currently reside near El Centro, California, where I was born and raised. I'm fifty-nine years old; married to Candy for twelve years; two grown step-children. I am retired from the Border Patrol (4 yrs.), for whom I was a patrol agent and a pilot for 24 years.
I've been riding motorcycles for 44 years. My first bike was a 1956 TR-6 Triumph Trophy. I have always been partial toward the older Brit bikes, having owned one other Triumph and two BSAs over the years.
I acquired my first beemer in 1982; a 1980 R-65 with 20 thousand miles on the odo. It's now got 120 thousand on it. It just refuses to die.
I currently own: 1970 TR-6C Triumph Trophy (my second bike ever); 1980 R-65 BMW; 1997 R1100R BMW; and my latest acquisition, a 2003 R1150GS.
My interests include wrenching on just about anything; eg: old cars, bikes, airplanes, helicopters, fishing reels.
My goals for the remainder of my riding career include riding/touring every part of the Western United States, and , especially to ride all the way to Prudhoe Bay, AK. I LOVE MOTORCYCLES.

[Prof. Robert]

introduce myself. I'm Robert and I'm a relatively new member and BMW owner. (Jeez, this is starting to sound like a confession at some kind of Addicts Anon. meeting). I started riding when I was 14 on an Allstate Crusaire (sp?) almost 46 years ago, and I haven't been able to quit; I've experienced a hiatus or two though (Vietnam and Grad School), but I've never been able to "kick the habit."

Since the little blue Allstate, I've owned several different bikes (mostly British, the last one being a '74 850 Commando). Currently, I ride a '95 R1100RSL that I bought after buying my wife a '05 Vulcan 500. Rising gas prices was her excuse for wanting a motorcycle; so I thought if she could have a bike, I could too because the rising gas prices affected me as well.

I initially started looking at the early to mid-seventies British models when I stumbled upon a '73 R75/5 "Toaster" for sale on e-bay. Although I didn't buy this bike, it switched my focus to BMWs. (I've always liked these bikes, but I really don't know why I never owned one before). Besides, I began thinking about electric start verses kick start ... hmmmmm, let me think. Oh god, how I missed those times when my Norton decided to give me a lesson in anger management and finally started after only 50 kicks or so, explaining why my right thigh was two inches larger than my left one. No contest, the electric start wins! However after considering unleaded gas and other changes in modern petroleum products, I felt buying a later model would be my best bet, so when I ran across the '95 oilhead, I bought her. I just had a good feeling about the bike from the minute I saw her.

Oh my god, this is a confession. Maybe now I can go find one of those old "Toasters" and add it to my stable without feeling guilty. I feel so much better now; thank you for listening.

Robert :wave

[JessicaF650GS]

Me! Hi, my name is Jessica and I LOVE MY F650GS! It's my first and only bike and I'm starting to take it on as may day trips as I can squeeze in between work and the gray New England weather we have had this late August. In the 4 weeks I've had it though, I've racked up about 1400 miles on it which I don't think is too bad for me, a NEWBIE (as you guys would put it) but I've been told that I ride my Beamer like a Veteran so I don't know.

Anyone know of any groups like "Ladies of BMW" in New England that I can ride with or at least get in touch with? Let me know.

I look forward to meeting more of the group via forum, rallies, & other BMW enthusiast gatherings! Safe riding everyone...

JessicaF650GS :dance

[SheRidesABeemer]

Anyone know of any groups like "Ladies of BMW" in New England that I can ride with or at least get in touch with? Let me know.

JessicaF650GS :dance
I don't know of this group...let's form it...you, me, iRene, Chase, Murial...I think we have a quorum. Welcome! BMWBC (biker chicks) :dance

[jmerlino]

Me! Hi, my name is Jessica and I LOVE MY F650GS! It's my first and only bike and I'm starting to take it on as may day trips as I can squeeze in between work and the gray New England weather we have had this late August. In the 4 weeks I've had it though, I've racked up about 1400 miles on it which I don't think is too bad for me, a NEWBIE (as you guys would put it) but I've been told that I ride my Beamer like a Veteran so I don't know.

Anyone know of any groups like "Ladies of BMW" in New England that I can ride with or at least get in touch with? Let me know.

I look forward to meeting more of the group via forum, rallies, & other BMW enthusiast gatherings! Safe riding everyone...

JessicaF650GS :dance

Hey Jessica - Come on down and meet with the Yankee Beemers. It's co-ed, but you'll meet at least a few of the great women who are members. You might even like a few of the guys, too.

[DwayneH]

Hi, Dwayne. I'm from Bradford, Ontario Canada. I would have posted earlier, but the igloo needed some attention. :laugh

In May of this year I purchased a brand spankin..still in her crate 2005 R 1150 R. It was last years model, but I guess they had a hard time selling the Dark Ferro R's. I fell in love with it, which has a lot to do with the lack of chrome. I commute on my bike everyday, rain or shine. I now have just under 11,000 Km's on her. My previous ride was a 2004 Suzuki Intruder 1500 LC, with enough chrome to scare a Harley into submission. That bike too was a daily commuter, but polishing chrome...EVERY SINGLE DAY, was starting to get old. Heated grips is the other reason I fell in love with the R.
I'll include (try) of the bike when she was still a new born in her crate. Very neat that the dealer went through the trouble to photgraph this, and even gave me the crate which I am turning into a picture frame once I get some really nice shots of the bike.

[camilojpool]

I am Camilo, I just did this great trip in my R1150 GS ADV, tons of pictures, challenging and rewarding. Stopped at the Bee Cee Beemers Rally at the Nakusp Hotsprings BC, Canada. Then a tree house resort in Takilma, Oregon. Then the Redwood NP, Sequioa NP, Mojave, Las Vegas, Zion NP, Bryce Canyon, Grand Staircase - Escalante, Capitol Reef, then Colorado and back to Iowa.

[BradfordBenn]

Welcome to the fun

[crazydrummerdude]

Nathan
20 years old
Saint Charles (near St Louis), MO
Member of MOA for a year now.
Own a R75/6, and 4 dirtbikes/2 four-wheelers.
Attending the community college, but will transfer to UMR for Aerospace Engineering.
Owner of a commercial lawncare business for the past 3 years.
That's it.

[bubbagazoo]

Nathan
20 years old
Saint Charles (near St Louis), MO
Member of MOA for a year now.
Own a R75/6, and 4 dirtbikes/2 four-wheelers.
Attending the community college, but will transfer to UMR for Aerospace Engineering.
Owner of a commercial lawncare business for the past 3 years.
That's it.
Welcome aboard, Nathan. As you have already seen, this is a fun place and a great bunch of folks.

[audioelliot]

Well, I guess it's my turn. My name is Elliot Carroll and I'm 22. I'm originally from Southern Pennsylvania, but now I never stay in one place longer than a week. I work for a touring production company and I'm on the road 11 months a year, which is great, because I get to ride my bike alot. I started with a 2002 F650GS and loved the bike, but wanted some bigger, faster, and a bit more comfortable. So I went with a 2002 K1200RSA and I love it so much that I'll never get rid of it, ever. I'll just have to buy a 1200GS in a couple years for more off-road adventures. I've been a member since Dec 2005, and haven't been to a single rally of any kind. I work weekends, it's tough to get out of work. But hopefully, I'll be able to catch one soon. I have 37,318 miles under my belt, in 19 months and look forward to keep riding hard. Look, it'sa me!

[userw5]

Jeff
47 YO
I reside just outside Richmond VA.
I purchased my '04 Rockster back in April of this year.
Prior to this I had a '77 Yamaha XS650 and a '96 Honda Shadow 650.
I started riding on the street about 11 years ago, I had ridden dirt bikes as a youngster. I love to ride, but don't get to much seat time right now. Mostly a weekender and occasionally (3 or 4 times a month) commute to work and back.
I've been a member of the MOA since shortly after I purchased my Rockster. I love the Ride Reports and Tech tips.

[pedrocasper]

Greetings All: My name is Pete, friends call me Petey or Pedro. I am currently 38 years old. I don’t know what my enemies, if any, call me and I really don’t care. I have loved motorcycles since my first ride on an AMF 90cc “mini-bike”. The only Harley I really enjoyed riding *smile*. I was 5 or 6 at the time. I am currently a government attorney and work for NYS Thruway Authority (I do most of their environmental legal work). Before going to law school I spent many years over seas. I was a Peace Corps volunteer in Paraguay and after that I taught sixth grade in Puerto Rico (hence the name “Pedro”). I have owned many bikes in my time. My current bikes include a 1984 R100 and two CB350s (one road racer and one street/parts bike). My wife also rides and outside of our various trips on bikes together I truly enjoyed my stay in Paraguay, which allowed me to scoot around many parts of South America on a Yamaha 125. More then enough bike to “scoot around” on. I look forward to meeting you all on the road and if you ever drive by the Thruway Authority building off of I-87 Exit 23 (NY), give the building a wave....It is likely I will see you.

[co_g30]

Hello

My name is Dom Chang and I bought a 2004 BMW R1150RT last week at the Sturgis Beemer dealer. I had ridden up in a 2006 Honda Shadow Aero 750 and ended up riding back on the R1150RT! (long story, see blog if curious).

This is my second bike and I bought my first at the end of May of 2006, so pretty much a noobie. I had put over 5000 miles though on my bike since the first of June of this year and love riding.

I work for my own company as a computer networks consultant, married, father to two boys, living in Centennial, Colorado.

[Rich]

Hello

My name is Dom Chang and I bought a 2004 BMW R1150RT last week at the Sturgis Beemer dealer. I had ridden up in a 2006 Honda Shadow Aero 750 and ended up riding back on the R1150RT! (long story, see blog if curious).

This is my second bike and I bought my first at the end of May of 2006, so pretty much a noobie. I had put over 5000 miles though on my bike since the first of June of this year and love riding.

I work for my own company as a computer networks consultant, married, father to two boys, living in Centennial, Colorado.

Congratulations on the purchase, Dom. I read this post and smiled, you now own the bike I traded in for my new GS. I just went through your blog, interesting reading. Sorry to hear you have had a couple of drops, it does happen. As I'm sure you could see when you bought it, I never did drop it. But I can sure see how it can happen. Hang in there, it'll get easier to handle, it felt pretty big and bulky to me too when I first bought it. Don't be afraid to email me with any questions. Again, congratualtions on your purchase, you bought a well cared for bike that will treat you well for a long long time. (I see you also posted on the 1150 seat jack thread, those are the pieces of wood I put in there, and the pictures were taken with that bike. Small world, huh?) Your bike is still in my avatar, I will change it one of these days. Take care, and enjoy your machine.

[mark2wheeler]

My name is mark and bought a k75rt this past spring.I have ridden since I was 18 or so.I'm 51 yrs old and folks my age were likely to have started riding on a 350 honda.I owned a used one for a year or two and then moved up to a 550 honda 4 cylinder.When I was about 22 I bought a brand new '77 R100/7.I put a Luftmeister fairing with lowers and Krauser saddle bags on it.I live in suburban Chicago.I rode that bike to the Blue ridge Parkway four years in a row.When I would be back home I was spoiled from those trips.It's not much fun riding in the Midwest after experiencing the beautiful Appalachians.I got married and had a few kids and sold the bike,in about '92, as it was not getting any use.The kids grew up and so now I've got some time to ride.I really like the K75.It is a big step up from the r100.

[Piumarider]

Hello Everyone:

My name is Pedrum, in Santa Monica, California (Los Angeles). I am a new rider. It took me a long time to realize my goal of riding, but I finally did it this year. I own a 2006 F650 GS, which I enjoy immensely. This weekend I had the opportunity to take a ride to the famous "The Rock Store" on Mulholland Hwy. For those of you who are not familiar check out their website: http://www.rock-store.com/. The drive there is absolutely fantastic. Drive back is equally phenomenal. Unfortunately no Jay, Arnold or Matt; however, I'll be going there regularly so I'll eventually run into them. If anyone in my neck of the woods is interested and would like to hook and take the ride with me, feel free to email me.

Cheers,
P.

:bar

[BradfordBenn]

Welcome to the fun

[k75s]

Mark, sounds like a familiar story. I am 51 also. k75s rule. Hope BMW continues to make parts available for them. Several times I thought I would sell my k75 and get a newer BMW model, paralever and all that. No, that would have been stupid. :banghead Instead I plan on keeping this bike whether I buy a new one or not. I feel I can take this bike anywhere, except where a GS may wander off the road, but actually what I mean is that I can take this bike on a short trip to the store, just putt around my city, or go on an extended multi thousand mile tour in all sorts of weather. Even though the bike may never be thought of in the same light as a classic airhead, my thoughts are evolving into thinking that this is a bike worth preserving.

[OfficerImpersonator]

Mark, sounds like a familiar story. I am 51 also. k75s rule. Hope BMW continues to make parts available for them. Several times I thought I would sell my k75 and get a newer BMW model, paralever and all that. No, that would have been stupid. :banghead Instead I plan on keeping this bike whether I buy a new one or not. I feel I can take this bike anywhere, except where a GS may wander off the road, but actually what I mean is that I can take this bike on a short trip to the store, just putt around my city, or go on an extended multi thousand mile tour in all sorts of weather. Even though the bike may never be thought of in the same light as a classic airhead, my thoughts are evolving into thinking that this is a bike worth preserving.

At first I thought of my K75S as a starter bike, to be traded in for the next one. But considering all I've done to her in the two months I've had the privilege of owning her, and considering the market research I've done subsequent to buying her, she's appreciating in value (both sentimental and economic) on a daily basis. How could I give her up now - even if it were for a new bike?

When it comes time to get a new bike, I think I'll just clear out a little more space in the garage so I can keep the old along with the new.

[turnkey630]

Hello, my name is Rick Barry, I live in Central FL, originally from NH and work as a deputy sheriff spend most of my off time riding 1 of my 2 Beemers. I have an LT and an R12C. Been ridin for the better part of 20 yrs, Harleys up until 4 yrs ago when I got my first Beemmer (the cruiser). I've ridden in every state east of the Mississippi, now its time to venture west.

[henzilla]

Hello everyone, I am Steve from Austin,TX. Headed into my 50th year and CAN retire from my 30 years ( 23 in Austin) in the electric utility bidness as a power lineman and now a manager over the training section . Only been in the BMW "club" for 9 months, but have ridden two wheels(some not with motors) for the past 35. I sold a HD when I was 25 and w/ 3 kids...it was decided I needed to "be responsible"...looking back it was " I can't ride with you so get rid of it!" I stayed off of motorized bikes ,well ,not owning one, for the next 22 years. I was given a set of keys to a brand new bike to use for rally in TX by a gracious/thankful neighbor for favors done and haven't stopped since...I bought a HD, then an 05'RT( after my girlfriend who rides a 95 R 1100R as well as HD's introduced me to BeemerWorld ) I also currently have two '02 R1150R's and have looked at a / airhead or two so I know i will prob have one also... Brought the latest R back from MOA owner in Indiana Christmas week in between storms .Have been to Sipapu Rally as well as a few Big Bend runs...Central Texas has plenty of back roads and twisties to keep rides interesting.... Headed to the Carolinas in June and the Wisconsin rally in July...ride with the SanAntonio BMW club almost every weekend....seem to end up in Luckenbach on Sundays at 1PM no matter what route we take!!Right,Chuck?

[henzilla]

gotta give equal time....

[henzilla]

stop on Dec 28 on Natchez Trace coming home to TX on newest of R bikes in my garage

[mkrouse]

My name is Marc Krouse from Cary, NC and I started riding again in 1995 when my 17 year old daughter wanted to learn to ride a motorcycle. We attended an MSF class together and riding helped her develop self confidence along with a special identity rare in most high school girls: Motorcylist.

My first BMW was a 1975 R90S recovered from a garage near the Duke campus in Durham, NC. It spend 6 months in my living room then emerged for a paint job. Gone now. Sad. Never sell a paid for bike.

My second BMW was a 1996 R1100RSL that I bought for my 19 year old son. Purchased used and sight unseen from Phoeniz, AZ. He flew out to AZ and rode it back on his first long distance solo ride. A great adventure. It currently resides in Yuma, AZ where he is working at his first job after college and a BMWMOA member.

My third BMW is a 2002 K1200RS purchased used locally and it is my favorite bike so far. I think it is a cross between my former 1999 Honda CBR1100XX and the R1100RSL. Comfort and power. My oh my what a fine thing is electronic cruise control.

I'll be 62 next month and I still remember my first ride on a Honda S90 in 1965. Actually more vividly than this past Monday's New Year's Ride. Short term memory thing. 1966 had me aboard the biggest bike Honda made at the time, 1965 Honda Superhawk 305. No helmet. No boots. No gloves. No jacket. Sunglasses and loafers. My grades suffered.

Now to get aboard the K12RS and head out west again, check out the same wonderful roads ridden in 2005 for 8K miles aboard a 2005 Ducati ST3. Surely the K bike will be an improvement on Nevada's route 50. And CA 36. And UT 12. And ID 12. And WA 129. And CO 92. Oh my.

[ultracyclist]

What is on the pillion of your 1150R? Bag, Back rest, higher seat for passenger?
Thanks.

[henzilla]

that is a large GIVI box that already has a new home on the RT! Since my girlfriend rides a R, I will NOT be needing the backrest...hahahaha. My brother said it was a radar dome!

[henzilla]

and I forgot the HELEN2WHEELS rolltop bag that I carried all my riding gear in on plane ride to pick bike up...made a nice backrest too!

[DaveRTS]

Hi everyone. My name is David Zuck from Taylorstown, VA. After a twenty one year hiatus, I decided to purchase a bike. I came across a 05 R1150RA this past summer and couldn't pass it up. I can't begin to tell you how happy I've been with the bike. I have actually enjoyed the bike more than I expected. I wasn't quite sure if this was the bike for me but after a few months, I know it is. I rode a 78 Yamaha XS750 when I was in HS and upgraded to a 83 Honda CB1100F in college. The Honda became a sofa and loveseat when my wife and I got married. After twenty one years, I'm still married to my wonderful wife. We have a fantastic 13 year old daughter, a 7 year old cat, and a 2 year old Newfoundland. I just joined BMW MOA and hope to meet some of you in the near future.

[salcar]

I sold everything that I owned, maxed out a few credit cards, and took a loan out to research Latin America’s healthcare systems on my 2005 F650GS Dakar. My name is Salvador Carlucci, 1’m 26 years old, half Italian and half from Nicaragua. The last 8 years I’ve been living in the US where I was working for the pharmaceutical industry.

So far I’ve visited 16 countries in 5 months, riden over 17,000 miles and currently planning my route back north from Buenos Aires. I’m planning to add at least 4 more countries to the list of places I visited on this last part of the trip. My travel blog can be found at www.salcar.net

As far as I can remember BMW motorcycles have always been a dream of mine. I remember that when I was little my dad would stop at service stations in Italy to get gas. Once in a while I would see these huge fully loaded bikes with Germans motorcyclist on it – those bikes where BMW. I thought those guys where so cool and after doing some research I became a believer that the 650GSD was the best bike to do the type of traveling I always dreamed of.

I look forward to become an active member in this forum and to meet all of you either online or in person!

http://salcar.smugmug.com/photos/115362273-M.jpg

[k75s]

Where in God's earth are you in that photo? :huh

[salcar]

Where in God's earth are you in that photo? :huh

Uyuni Salar in Bolivia. An amazing place to visit :heart

[mmayer]

BMW anyone?

What can I say that you haven’t already heard? I’ll let the pictures do the talking as they say much more. My first BMW was a red K75. I bought it in California ten years ago and since then have enjoyed the following fine machines.

When moving to Romania the first order of business was to buy a bike. Seven days after my arrival I purchased this lovingly cared for naked R100. It was an RT, striped down to resemble an S. This bike was fast and raw in so many ways. Perhaps it’s most characteristic feature was the way the rear end will lift under power.
http://img111.imageshack.us/img111/2826/motor1yk2.png

Next purchase that summer was my R1100 RS, the bike featured in the video I posted earlier. I flew to Munich and bought her at the BMW dealership, then rode the ride of a lifetime through the Alps for the very first time. I still can’t believe how well balanced this bike is.

http://img126.imageshack.us/img126/9199/jaufen1ia0.jpg
I decided to start getting creative a couple of summers later. I purchased this concourse condition ’74 Honda CB 360. It had just turned 30 years old, had been stored for 20 of those years and still has the original rubber. I am the fourth owner of this California bike.

http://img441.imageshack.us/img441/619/1131389wp5.jpg

Shortly after that I decided to go a little further back in history when a great opportunity came to me. That's when I picked up this Ural sidecar at an auction. Her nickname, “Sidecar Sally.” Need I say more?

http://img441.imageshack.us/img441/9993/img2090cg2.jpg

http://img111.imageshack.us/img111/1502/img2087zh3.jpg

Now that I’m back in Canada, and I was forced to sell my R1100RS due to Transport Canada laws, I have replaced it with this R1100RT, the “Green Machine.” I'll be riding her to the BMW MOA rally in Wisconsin this summer.

http://img474.imageshack.us/img474/6588/mark1999r1100rt06060011ka8.jpg

[mmflytie]

8038


Here is my new 07 K1200Gt which I have redsigned paint scheme and painted.

I'm 49 and have just recently gotten back into cycling after a 25 year break. I'd forgotten how much I miss it. I have several friends who ride and we have awesome roads here. I live in the Foothills of the BlueRidge Mts in NW South Carolina. Just got back from a ride this past weekend on the Cherohala Skyway and wow. is it beautiful. I invite everyone to come on down to our neck of the woods for some unforgettable weather and asphalt.
Have fun but ride safe

Marc Morgan

PS ..and yes I painted my bike to match my restored 79 corvette

[mmflytie]

I had a CB 360 too!! It was chpped slightly and was my only means of transportation for 2 years....talk about getting tired of motorcycling!!! Glad my next bike was a little more exciting......( K1200GT) Actually for a short period I was a HOG rider...had a Fatboy, but I'm not really the bar-hopping type...just liked all that chrome! Then I realized how much time I spent keeping it shiny and the sparks display I gave when cornering thru these Carolina mtns!

[mmayer]

Love the paint job, love the vette. Looks like you're in the right place for some awesome riding. I haven't been out there yet but if I have time I plan to ride your way this summer.

Cheers,

Mark

[tuckerdt]

I recently purchased an R1200 GS ADV and took it out on the Pony Express Road in western Utah to see how it would handle on the gravel, sand, mud, etc. Just north of this route is a live fire air force range. When I passed Fish Springs National Wildlife Refuge and headed north I saw a very large number (100) of brilliant white flashes which looked like a 4th of July gone bad. Later, an F16 pilot at Hill AFB told me it was probably a B-52 out of North Dakota dropping cluster bombs from 30k feet. The bike handled much better than I thought, and my first ride was much more exciting than I expected.

Tucker Thomson
Bountiful, Utah

[whamrick]

Hey guys, I'm new here and just wanted say hello. I ride a GS1200 and have been on beemers for about 12 years. I live in Shell Beach, CA. This morning I got up and rode to the nearest BMW dealer to have my headlight attended to. I changed the bulb yesterday but it still didn't work. After riding 2.5 hours to Santa Cruz BMW, Brian there said, "when you checked it, was the engine running?" Turns out the engine has to be on to make the low beam turn on.
Oh well, it was a beautiful day and a good ride up the coast thru Big Sur. Can't think of a better way to spend a Saturday.
Keep those wheels spinnin'.

[enginerod]

Hi

My name is Rodney and this is my first airhead. I got it from a retired Dr. who had the bike in storage for the last 20 or so years, he got it to take on a 10,000 mi. trip from Michigan to Calif. and back. The bike is in very good shape. I get my winters off and have been home working on it for the last two months. I put on new tires and changed the points, plugs, filters, and oils. The steering damper leaked and I changed it also. I am a engineer on a ship and will be home until the middle of April. Hopefully I will get a chance to ride before I go back to work. Most of the work is done, except I am thinking about taking the carbs apart just to look inside. This forum is great and I don't feel all alone when I am working on the bike.

[hmariep]

I'm in....new here and new to riding; although not entirely new to going fast on two wheels. The name's Heather and I've raced road bicycles and triathlons in the past. I live in beautiful Central Oregon where I work hard (teacher and part time professor) and play even harder (hike/trail run with my two dogs, mtn. bike, kayak, etc.).

Just last fall, I rode with a friend a handful of times and decided I'd take the plunge and buy my own bike. Ended up with the newest (and last) Dakar and can't wait to get it out more. I've taken it on the trails already and look forward to exploring the Pacific NW this summer on my time off.

Don't know much about bikes, but am learning quickly by reading all you hooligans have to say. :)

Anyone in the general area wanna get together and ride? When, of course, the white stuff disappears!
~Heather

[03K12RS]

New to BMWMOA. First bike 1984 BMW K100RS. (Broken by a Buick) :violin
Current bike 2003 BMW K1200RS with approx. 34,000mi. Lots of miles put on in Wisconsin, traveling from Milwaukee, WI http://www.bmwmoa.org/forum/attachment.php?attachmentid=8240&stc=1&d=1172712987
up along Lake Michigan and Northwest to Eagle River, WI and the UP MI. I enjoy how you can travel for miles through WI without too much traffic and still make some decent time.
I'm looking forward to attending the BMWMOA International Rally. Looking forward to seeing folks I've corresponded through various websites http://www.k-bikes.com http://www.i-bmw.com http://www.sport-touring.net http://www.bmwmoa.org
Lots of very nice folk, good sense of humor and sound advice when needed.:type

[03K12RS]

Another shot of WI roadways this time in Northern WI. :thumb
Yes, you can find roads where you can stop, get off your bike, take a picture.
Even though you are stopped on the wrong side of the road.
And yes, you will have time to then get back on your bike.
All this can happen without someone in a car going nuts!:nyah

[03K12RS]

But if you do stop on the side of the road in Wisconsin, and just wait a while.
For sure someone will stop and make sure that everything is all right.
Happened to me along this road in Northern WI. I was just enjoying the day! :brad

[03K12RS]

When I can't ride my bike I try to get a few upgrades put on for comfort, safety, performance and style.:brow

[03K12RS]

Ok, get your minds out of the gutter! Geez!
Beautiful day for a ride, went to visit a friend North of Milwaukee.
Just about an hour drive out of town (Milwaukee, WI), had time to kill after taking my car into the shop for a new radiator.
http://www.i-bmw.com/gallery/data/500/medium/buffalbike.JPG
Striking similarities between the beast and the bike. No?

[Rapid_Roy]

Roy Schindler
I have been going to Beemer rallys since 1978? in my brother's sidehack and a few years later on my own 1955 R50. Since then, a 1977 R100/7 and then a 1984 R100 RT (the infamous "Last Edition" *snicker*). I still have and love them all, I have only crashed on 2 of them. Did I mention the R50 sat for many years after I dropped a valve? It is finally up and running after many hilarious problems which I am sure I will laugh about later when I have money again. :lol Now I know why they call them cash 2's.:cry All 3 bikes are up and running this year and I hope to make my mumbleteenth Nat'l this year. I joined the MOA around 20 years ago, it lapsed for 1 or 2 years. I still went to Rallys and I got tired of asking others when they were so I signed back up again. Now, I finally signed up for this forum on the Internet thingy.
Here they are, for your amusement,
Ol' Reliable (her good side, the bad side is from the worst weekend of my life)
http://i86.photobucket.com/albums/k113/mrbeemerman/P5190001.jpg

The Deerpuncher (the instrument cluster is still bent to remind me to look for deer)
http://i86.photobucket.com/albums/k113/mrbeemerman/P2020018.jpg

Ol' paint (it really is old paint now)
http://i86.photobucket.com/albums/k113/mrbeemerman/r50rest.jpg

[spinalcracker]

Hi folks

I'm Mike Glaiel in Easthampton Ma and I'm new to the world of motorcycles. I have been doing a lot of riding locally in Western Mas and VT. Went to the rally last year saw and learned lots. I'm planing my first big trip in September to Nova Scotia for two weeks, solo. My kids call me the Red Power ranger in this suit.

[ddorwart]

No, No, No, I don't live in California. I only took a short trip there while on a business trip in Vegas. Had 3 days between meeting and took off. I live in the Philadelphia Region (Kennett Square) and Dallas, Texas. Most of the riding is Long Distance because it seems it is the only free quiet time I get. No phones, faxes, emails or Fedex. It's wonderful and though provoking.

[31997]

My Rides: 95 R100RT , 82 R65LS, 07 Ural Gearup
Long distance Sports Touring is my thing. Tents are not bad places to sleep.
Key West during Bike Week and Fantasy Fest are OK places. NO Daytona, Laconia, Sturgis, Americade or other poser fests! Trailers are for broken bikes only, if there's no ice on the road, let's ride there!

[PKoerner]

I ride an R65 1981. Great bike. The longer I live, I'm 47, the more I realize keeping my mouth shut is really a good idea.

[OU812]

I currently own a 04 R1150R with a bad case of Farkle disease.
Been riding on the road since 76'. I am set with this BMW as my bike for a long time, as I need not go any quicker than it.:D
http://i155.photobucket.com/albums/s295/ou812_o6/Nice003.jpg
Had a great time at my first Rally, The Rally.
Steve

[toivok]

This bike has been in the family forever. I bought my Slash 5 R60 in April of 1971 and my brother bought his in June (I think). This bike is now a combination of the two, the parts have gone to Vermont to keep some other Boxers on the road. I was tempted, this year, to sell it and finally ride behind a windscreen and fairing but, after much consideration, I can't part with it!!

The photo is from my last ride to Thunder Bay Ontario, 2500 miles over 1 week!!

[Texfire]

A little about myself. I'm a firefighter from Texas, and I've been interested in riding motorcycles ever since my dad bought his first one when I was growing up, but it never seemed the right time. I'm a bit of an overachiever, so as my 36th birthday was fast approaching I decided that if I was going to have an early mid-life crisis that I needed to be a rider before my 36th birthday. I signed up for the BRC from the MSF, and was irrevocably hooked by the end of the first day on that little 250cc bike. I told myself that there was no rush getting a bike, and had one within three days, a used Honda VLX 600.

Fast forward a little over a month and about 600 miles. I was still having a blast riding, but was becoming increasingly dissatisfied with that little Honda I had initially purchased. It wasn't that it was a bad bike, it's actually a great little bike, but it wasn't right for what I wanted to do, which was day trips around the area. Of course it took a month of riding experience to realize that, so I think of it not so much of a false start but part of the learning experience.

http://www.totalmotorcycle.com/photos/2006models/2006-Honda-Shadow-VLX-DeluxeB-small.jpg

Cruisers look great and sound great, but I found myself with a growing list of desired changes. A more standard footpeg arrangement for surmounting obstacles, higher gearing more suitable for highway use, a windscreen, lockable on-bike storage, and a more comfortable seat. In short, a touring bike. Before taking a perfectly good street cruiser and opening the wallet to start changing it, I decided to look at what kind of naked or tourer was available first, with an eye for another beginner friendly bike that had touring chops. If I could do so without losing a bunch of money on the Honda, then all the better. I thought about selling the Honda private party, but if I traded it in then the value of it would subtract from the taxable value of the new bike, a savings that I would not be able to duplicate selling to a person.

First thing I did was take my Honda back to the dealer I purchased it from, to see what kind of trade in value he would give me. He would offer me 2/3rds of the purchase price to buy it back, or slightly higher if I traded it in on another bike he had. He had a Yamaha FZ6 that I took for a test ride and how different from a cruiser can you get? The Yamaha FZ6 also has a 600cc engine like the VLX, but the Inline-4 it sports is a totally different beast from the V-twin I was currently riding. Frankly, it was too much bike for me right now, and the leaning forward sportbike ergos had me feeling like I was constantly about to fall into the tank. I imagine it would have been more comfortable at highway speeds with air pressure pushing you back up, but a twist of the throttle got me up to 40 in 2nd gear without even thinking about it. It would not be a forgiving bike if I made an error, not a good learning bike. That said, it was quite peppy and fun, I imagine that it's going to be in consideration for a subsequent bike. Add in the fact that it was going to cost me about $2500 over trade-in, and it wasn't the right bike.

http://www.totalmotorcycle.com/photos/2006models/2006-Yamaha-FZ6b-small.jpg

I then went to a local Suzuki dealer to sit on a V-strom 650. I liked the ergos, it was a taller bike which I liked, and had touring accessories like hard bags available for it. I wasn't sure how much off-roading capability I would need though since I have no experience with it, and I suspected that a heavy 650 would not be ideal to learn how to off-road with. Also the reports of buffeting and uncomfortable seat led me to suspect that I would have to put some money into the bike after purchase to make it suit me better. On top of all that was the price. I was going to have to shell out a couple of thousand in addition to my trade-in to get one from a dealer. So I decided to pass on the V-Strom. Once again, I liked the bike so it may be in future consideration for a future bike.

http://www.totalmotorcycle.com/photos/2007models/2007-Suzuki-V-StromDL650ABSa.jpg

My next trip was to the local BWM dealer to look at some used bikes they had listed. Or particular interest was a used K75RT. It had all the tourer features I was looking for, and I don't think I have to tell any of you how much fans of the "flying bricks" love theirs. :) All it took was one test ride and I was lost. Talk about a smooth running bike. I did a little horse trading, the dealership called around and was able to offer me enough on my trade-in that I purchased the K75 for $250 out of pocket. That sealed the deal for me.

http://clans.gameclubcentral.com/texfire/K75RT-Lonestar.jpg

I picked up the K75 on a Saturday, and took it for a 160 mile meander through the hill country west of Austin. The ride included some pretty nice twisties and some segments of slab. The K75 took it all like a champ. I had one moment where I dragged my left boot on a twisty and backed off a little bit, but it was quite capable in the turns. The aftermarket saddle went a long way towards eliminating numb butt syndrome, and the fairing and windshield and higher gearing made running at highway speeds much more enjoyable, where as before it was simply something to endure. The hard bags give me some much needed on-bike storage. I'm going to see if there are some other options, the locks are pretty cheesy and will only keep honest people honest, but since it has to stay outside my apartment they are appreciated and a starting place.

The Inline-3 cylinder has plenty of torque for me, I can beat most cars off the light, and can cruise all day at 75-80. I got it up to 95 yesterday in a straight segment, I imagine it will do more if I open the throttle all the way, but why would I need to? Will this be my last bike? No. But it's a good and forgiving learner that I can take on day trips, which is what I want in a bike right now. I was actually surprised at how well it handled the small backroads. I had a couple of low water crossings, some gravel segments, and a couple of cattleguards to cross. The K75 handled them all with grace and made it look easy.

The only "problem" I have with it, is it gets pretty warm around the upper legs when running at highway speeds. The previous owner installed a Corbin seat, and found that they couldn't put the side panels back on. I suspect that part of the heat problem is from these missing panels. I'm going to look for some used ones and see if I can adapt them to work with the seat.

Tex

[jstanco]

Hi Everyone
I am Jesse, from Oklahoma and I am new to riding a BMW.
I just purchased a 93 BMW K75S from a very dear friend who can no longer ride. He literally gave it to me with 6500 miles on it. Pristine Condition.
It is my dream bike that I have wanted for a very long time.

I hope to learn alot from all of you, who seem to have much more knowledge than me. Can't wait to learn.

Jesse:D

[MABSTER]

I'm Marc from just outside Washington, DC and I'm new to riding and BMWs. Took MSF BRC and got licensed about a month ago. Ride a new F800ST and just passed the 1,300 mile mark.

http://i222.photobucket.com/albums/dd279/mblanc_01/F800ST/Calsci03.jpg

[Visian]

... and nice bike!

Ian

[MENRIQUE135997]

Hi:

first at all..forgive me by my bad english.

I' from Spain and i think that is nice to speak with another forums about our BMW.
I have a GS1200R from this july and i had before little sister GS650 from five years ago.

I'm very glad with my GS and i hope to send yours soon some pictures about the tours here in Spain.

This link is about BMW riders 2007 in Granada two weeks ago.

http://www.bmwriders.bmw.es/2007/encuentroriders/galeria.htm

I hope that your like.

best regards and vsssssssss

enrique

[oldowan]

Hello Dave,
I just joined MOA today and this is my first attempt at online comms. I am planning a trip to Mexico this winter and was wondering about your experiences South of the border.
Thanks,
Mark
Hello,

My name is David 42 single.I have been riding since 95'.I rode 3 different Harleys before finding BMW.I took a few nice 2 wk solo tours on the Harleys..New Orleans,Sturgis,Western Canada.Just enough to whet my appetite.In Nov 2000,after a few "life event changes" and finding on the web that true"globetrotters" rode a R1150 GS I sold the HD left MInneapolis and headed south on my new ride,"The Silver Beast".
The GS is"The Bike".
22,000+ miles and 10 months.I hit most of Mexico in 4 months.Circled the SW US and headed up the west coast.Western Canada via the inside passage and Stewart Ak.I think I hit almost every Natl Park.After 9/11 my heart wasn't in it and I cut the trip short after circlng the great plains.Man,I never felt so alive as during that trip.I am in SE Iowa now and new to the area.
I am always looking for riding buddies!!!
I kept a journal and took 1,000 pictures.I have some on my web page but I need to edit and upload the rest.
See you at the Iowa Rally June 12-15 in Kalona
goab(guy on a beemer)

[ngaron]

Last October (2006) spent a month touring New Zealands North Island on a rental 650GS. Being a lad of little faith I next shipped my 650GS from Hawaii to New Zealand and toured both the South and North Island of New Zealand for another 3 months (Feb-April 2007).
Back to Hawaii leaving the beamer in Auckland. Back down in June and shipped the bike to Sydney. From June to the end of September (2007) going counter-clockwise I managed to put on over 30k or 19,000 US miles. The bike sits in a small town just north of Melbourne. I return to Australia January for another 2 months touring Tasmania, Victoria mountains and finally back to Sydney. Shipping the bike back to the west coast for a try at the artic circle in 2008.
If anyone has done the artic circle and has an itinerary of your trip I will gladly give you a CD copy of my travels through OZ.:dance

[pffog]

Me, I like to ride all day and go nowhere. Or wander the small twisty bits or blacktop, with an occasional dirt road thrown in. Hate main roads and avoid the slab like the plague.

http://www.easy-clan.com/ski/richard/Pictures/calabogie.jpg

[terham]

Beautiful bike pffog. I've always liked the BCRs.

[wilcox]

Hi All,
My name is Chris and I live in central Ohio. Here is my first BMW a 2004 R1150RT. I bought it intending to do more motorcycling and it has been working wonders.

Years ago I took some trips on my '80 Suzuki and '78 Honda, from Texas to the Outer Banks, some solo and some with my girl. When we got married and kids entered our lives the riding declined and the trips all but disappeared. But through the years I still kept the Suzuki GS1000 and picked up an old HD shovelhead and Yamaha 125 4 stroke dirt bike for some riding fun.

Back to the RT, I decided to get some current two wheeled technology and shopped BMWs for six months before finding this one over in Coshocton Ohio. Cathy loves the bike, she has always enjoyed riding with me. In mid October we headed south thru NC, SC Georgia and WV for a getaway week. The adventure was one we have not had in over 20 years. We are already planning for our next trip to Nashville in the spring.

I have never attended a rally but hopefully will make one soon. Yeah, thats it, a 2008 new years resolution! With BMW Anon on board and with the MOA resource it seems like help is always a click or phone call away.

Well that is it for now. Hope to see you sometime on the road.

Chris

[bimmerfreak]

Hi all! My name is Jim and I am from Western Tennessee. About a year and a half ago i purchased the R1200RT with the idea of retiring and hitting the road. A trip to the Dragon(US 129) with my FZ-1 prior to that kinda changed my mind. Feeling rather sporty and riding rather quickly, a low-side on an inside curve where the bike bounced up in the air and proceeded to "soft-land" on top of me, put me out of the riding business for about 8 months. Welll I have mostly healed, and this May I WILL retire and try hitting the road again(please no puns)! My first trip will be to the scene of my almost demise, though now on a bike more suited to my advancing years. From there, who knows,, probably will make the rally this year and see just how far I can go! Hope to see everyone there..Jim

[StLouRider]

Have not posted here much in the past.. Bought this LT back in June. Put 8,000 on it since. Making plans to ride out west again. Still want to ride AR, TX, NM, and AZ. Then there is the Northeast. Maybe the Great Lakes too.. So many trips and so little time. With 2 in college (next yr) there is no hope of retirement.
Here is a pic or two from last summer's trip out west.
Jeff

http://image2.frappr.com/pix2/i/20070917/8/e/d/8eda76f6de282aa8e82699b0ca49896b0_medium.jpg

http://image2.frappr.com/pix2/i/20070904/a/0/7/a07d08e85873b4b931922a4cf3e0c5380_large.jpg

http://image1.frappr.com/pix1/i/20070904/b/4/3/b433bd3da42b88ee624f26af822457900_large.jpg

[barryg]

U must be a fairly large guy. U make that LT look kinda small.

[ziphyr]

Hello everyone! I'm a 39 y.o Army veteran of nine years who's originally from Texas. I know reside in Georgia. I've been a BMW MOA for about four days. I am proud to be aboard. I am a new rider and proud owner of a 1999 R1100RT bike. Ms. Claus surprised me on Christmas Eve. Can you imagine that? I am totally knew to the motorcycle world but have more than 7,500 mile on legs from cycling for great causes. And I intend to do with my beemer. I have a mother with Multiple Sclerosis and she's why I bicycle 150miles once a year in September.
I completed a MSF course here in Georgia July 23, 2007. I was hooked from the moment I mounted the bike. I love my beemer and more importantly, I respect it. I've ridden a total of 47 miles. I absolutely love it. I usually run 6-10 miles per week but since my beemer, I haven't ran for 2 weeks! I'll get back on track. Oh, before I go, is there a cure for looking at my bike every minute I get? God bless all of you and be careful out there on the road. I pray that angels encamp round about each and everyone of you as you ride. Remember to SEE!!! Ziphyr:laugh:bikes

[royal1]

Well, in my haste, as a newby, I posted on the wrong board. That got moved to Campsite which is where my intro is.
Please read as I'm hoping to meet up with some of you this year and don't want to be a stranger.

[royal1]

Sorry, Campfire.
I'll get used to it!!

[monkeywork]

Hi, I'm Monk (http://www.monkeywork.com). (Mark to mother) riding an 86 K75 and building an R75 rennsport... ok it's going to pay tribute to a Rennsport.

I'm married to the incredible Cathy for 16 years and we're renovating our new house in Upstate New York to make room for her aging folks. I sail, ride, make BioDiesel, build stuff, break stuff, make wine, drink wine, (and scotch) wear kilts, love dogs and long rides to a beach.

I'm the full time audio engineer at Workshoplive (http://www.workshoplive.com), an online music education company, and part time special effects artist for Powderkeg (http://www.powderkeg.com).

I've been rideing since my Rupp minibike, Harley, Suzuki, Honda... all the while reading about BMW. I figure someday, someday I'll be mature enough to get a real bike. That day came and I'll never look back. I'm 42 and plan on living past 84... my life begins. :dance

http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1371/1331115280_b0ca33d5c5.jpg

[alien_hitchhiker]

I'm 42 and plan on living past 84... my life begins

:beer


Dig it!!!

[critchlin]

OK, I'll go too.

I'm 38 and live in Denver, Co. I am also developing a serious BMW problem. I have a 1200GS and a F650 Dakar and I am looking at trading in my '94 Honda 1000 for either the new 450 or a F800GS. Amazing machines.

Love to ride. Currently on a quest to travel all 50 states before I an through being 40. I guess I want to get over my midlife crisis a little early! I've managed to knock out about 20 states this year on a trip to the Arctic Circle in Alaska and on a ride out to the BMW riding school in South Carolina. http://72.3.249.89/forum/images/smilies/thumb.gif

11460

[Makzimia]

Hi, I am Tony, the 2007 K1200 LT comes after bending my wifes arm 360 degrees :D. I started riding bikes in Australia around the south coast of NSW in 1976. My wife and I are getting out to meetings locally at the moment for the San Diego BMW OC. Hopefully I will get to meet some of you on my travels. More than likely I will be on my own with some of the bigger trips, I am retired, wife still works.

[tonymarshall]

58 years old, 38 married to the same wonderful person, 5 kids all off the payroll, 8 grandkids, a real estate broker with my wife in one of the most beautiful places on earth...the Flathead Lake, Mission Valley areas between Missoula and Kalispell, MT. Had an earlier career in international oil and gas...lived abroad for about 12 years. Still a kid at heart.

Have loved motorcycles all of my life but just got back in a few years ago with an R1150GS....and then last year with a new R1200GSA. Great trips through Montana, Wyoming....then to Alaska last summer. The ride of a lifetime in my view. Have three trips planned for summer 08....Montana, Wyoming, Yellowstone, Glacier, Montana Highline. In July to my first rally....in Gillette, WY just a few miles from my childhood home, Sheridan, WY. Mid August, back up north to Canada, NWT, Inuvik. Cant wait.

All the best to my fellow riders.

Tony Marshall
Polson, MT
tony@lambros.com

[jnrugg]

My name is John and I am a Beemer rider. Admitting your addiction is the first step to building on it.

I grew up in Chicago but am in Ct. now.
My oldest brother taught me to ride on a Honda 550 I bought from a friend and secretly kept at his house. My parents were not happy about bikes.

The next year I bought a leftover red Honda 900 Custom that I loved and used it to move out east. Eventually I had to sell it to buy a car. My wife told me that if I didn't sell it she wouldn't have married me. Wish she had said something before we got married.

So after about 22 yrs., 2007, she said I could get a bike but it had to be big enough for both of us. I had been looking at junkey 650s. I have wanted a BMW for a long time and saw some RTs getting gas a few years ago. They were gorgeous! After a bunch of research and false starts I picked up a Red 2002 R1150RT that I absolutely love. I had to put it away for the winter since the wife wanted her side of the garage back for winter.

I got the bike Father's Day weekend and put on over 4000 miles to the end of Oct. all day riding. I look forward to taking MSF in the spring and adding travel accessories. My wife is looking forward too, so she says.

I joined MOA in the fall and the Ct. chapter. Being so late in the year I have yet to meet anyone but look forward to meeting with everyone.

Anyone need a riding partner let me know.
Big plans. Found out my wife had thrown out my North Face tent, but that's another story.

jnrugg@yahoo.com

Me at Beavertail State Park in Jamestown, RI. wifey took the photo.

[Visian]

a whole page full of new folks.

welcome everyone, and..... post more!!

ian

[ConcowRider]

Hello all, just signed up this evening and so here we go. Wife and I are both pretty much retired out of hi tech, although she still consults a bit. We sold out of the SF Bay Area and moved up here on to our 13 acres in early 2005.
In early 2007, I thought I might get back into motorcycling and so started looking. Two things became very evident. #1, wife was not satisfied to be riding behind me anymore, and #2. she thought anything but a beemer was going way way backwards. The last machine I had owned was a 1973 R75/5 and we packed "2 up" on it a number of times. Go figure??
So..... she's got an R1200GS and I got an R1200GSA. We enjoyed doing the break in miles down at our place at the Salton Sea (SS) last spring and then brough them up here for some very nice rides in northern Calif. Since we live just 5 miles north of highway 70, we have a lot of local roads that are "interesting". Both machines are currently on the battery maintainer in the garage but we should be hauling them down to the SS in another month or so. I, we can't wait! :thumb
Over the fall / winter I constructed a Doggie Box that should make it possible to take the spoiled cocker spaniel in our lives along. It includes a suspension system to mitigate the jolts, plenty padding and fresh air. It fits nicely on the back end of the GSA with the seat removed, but have not taken it / her out for a "maiden flight" yet. Fingers crossed! We also took our machines up to the Russel Seat folks in Shasta Lake and let them do their magic. What a differrence! Yes, I am actually smiling in the attached image and that's after ~ 1 1/2 - 2 hours in the saddle.
Cheers & ride safe
D&D+ Freckles Doggie

[pawork]

Got my first beemer three months ago.

In high school, Chicago area, had a Kawasaki 125 (blue smoke, chain saw sound) I rode it to school pretty much every day - even in winter, dressed in a protective denim jacket and jeans. No Aerostich, no Gerbings.

Then got to ride a friend's brother's R90 one day. Oh, baby. Never forgot that.

So flash forward nearly 30 yrs, and I finally have my own boxer. Put a top box on it to carry briefcase and lunch, and have barely driven my car since I got it. Already worried about a blossoming addiction...

[138622]

I've always been a motorcycle fanatic,and it wasn't until I was lucky enough to find a barely used(45k) 1987 K100LT that I came to appreciate the subtle nuances that makes the BMW marque the most desirable two wheel human conveyance ever devised by the hand of man. This eye opener of mechanical genius has forever turned me into a bit of an elitist amongst my fellow motorcyclists, and I've had to put up with all kinds of humiliations, such as having to ride at the back of the pack on long distance and fund raising rides just to pick up the parts that fall off of the leading machines---you get the picture.
But I digress.
I ride in the Edmonton Alberta Canada area. While the Canadian prairie has little to offer in the way of exciting roads for motorcycles, it does lend us the opportunity to let our mounts stretch their legs for some real mile eating riding. And if you want to get into the twisties, a two hour jaunt to the west gets you into the Rockies, where the riding can get quite adventurous. Several years back I nearly centre punched a rather large elk in the Jasper National Park. And the close encounter with an angry black bear on one of the back roads of the Glacier Highway between Jasper and Banff only adds to the allure of the area. The scenery can be spectacular, as there seems to always be something new around the next bend, and the fact that you are ON a machine as opposed to IN a machine makes it that much more special. To all the long distance guys I say this: Try our Alberta roads, you won't be disappointed.

[gypsy2]

hello, been a member for about a year or so. i have just started planning a trip to my moms house in texas, and of course the route has changed at least a dozen times in the last week. One thing that is set in stone so far is taking my time, at least 3 to 4 days to get there. So far i have Bisbee AZ, Hatch NM, and Carlsbad NM on the list. I really want to avoid the major highways as much as possible. So thats where i am at for now, oh and i also want to stop at tin top for breakfast at mary's brazo cafe, it is at the end of my run about 30 miles from moms. I started a blobspot, http://gypzdaz.blogspot.com to let the family know where i am at, and post pics so they can see how the trip is going. ok more later.

[earello]

I already posted one intro in the "Where did it all begin" thread, but since I actually had a chance see (and ride) my new-to-me '03 Dakar in person, I guess it's time to post here. I'm a brand new rider (took the MSF course in January), and never one to do anything half way, my first ride was a 300 mile road trip around the Tucson / Phoenix area with my wife and her '97 Funduro. The pictures are on the the Apache Trail between Globe and Phoenix. Not that I have a huge base of experience, but the bike rides great so far.

As for me, I've been in the Navy for about 9 years and am currently stationed at the University of Washington's NROTC in Seattle. On December 17th I married my beautiful wife and into a BMW motorcycle family, my father-in-law has been riding BMW's for 30 or so years. Now that I have my endorsement and a BMW (and the threat of divorce/disownment is gone), I'm looking forward to putting a lot more miles under my belt and getting to know you all better.

Cheers,
Tim

[maquick]

Good day to all. My name Tony and I am in NC, right in the center of the state. I became a member just this week. I now have a K1200LTC, My third Beemer. I traded my GT for the LT and really hate I did. I try to ride each day and I started with a Yamaha 250 and the age of 17, it was love at first ride. Anyway I enjoy Fishing, Golf, Tennis, and uh Motorcycles. If your ever in my area, give me a shout. Ride On..........

DSC00419_edited.jpg (45.3 KB)

[maquick]

Good day to all. My name Tony and I am in NC, right in the center of the state. I became a member just this week. I now have a K1200LTC, My third Beemer. I traded my GT for the LT and really hate I did. I try to ride each day and I started with a Yamaha 250 and the age of 17, it was love at first ride. Anyway I enjoy Fishing, Golf, Tennis, and uh Motorcycles. If your ever in my area, give me a shout. Ride On..........



http://www.bmwmoa.org/forum/attachment.php?attachmentid=12424&d=1204076455

[BradfordBenn]

Welcome to the fun Tony!

[micstumpf]

hi Chris, my RT is the same color as yours... I'd prefer blue or red, but that's the only one the seller had; 25 000 mi, 11 500$ cdn. prices are high for bmw products here. ride safe.

[danadach]

Hi all -- My name is Dana Dachroeden and I'm from St. Louis, Missouri. I just got back into motorcycling after a 15 year hiatus. In the early days I used to race in lots of local club enduros and was not so much into street. This time around I am set to explore the beauty of this great country and was lucky enough to have an acquaintance with a well loved '96 R1100RS for sale. The bike is just now broken in at close to 60K miles. Rides like a champ and is about everything I had hoped it would be. I plan to saddle up and head to Coloroado's Million Dollar Highway this summer (re. Dec '07 BMWON "Colorado Rocky Mountain High" -- nice article by Al Banta). Might be alone, might be with a couple of folks. It has also been a life long dream of mine to ride the Pacific Coast Highway from San Diego to Seattle. Maybe in '09. Well, let me finish by saying that I am pleased to be here. Dana ps. My middle name is James - so don't let the first name fool ya. :-)

[keabird]

My name is Casey and I live in Edmonds, WA. My step-dad and I did a tour around New Zealand on 650 GS's last year and I got hooked! I just got my first Beemer a couple of weeks ago and I already am addicted. I got a 98 Funduro and have been itching to take it on a trip somewhere!

[alien_hitchhiker]

I got a 98 Funduro and have been itching to take it on a trip somewhere!


Casey, scratch that itch !!!

:thumb

[manybikes]

Hi All:

My name is Dean and I live in Calgary, Alberta.
I have a 94 K1100lt and a Ducati Multistrada.
Have been riding for 39 years and have owned 40 different bikes in that time.
The K1100 is my third BMW, I have previously owned a R100RT and a K75s.

I still think BMW is the best.

[Visian]

I already posted one intro in the "Where did it all begin" thread, but since I actually had a chance see (and ride) my new-to-me '03 Dakar in person, I guess it's time to post here.

welcome tim and your wife.

i really like how you have your bike set up with the jesse boxes. good show! :thumb

http://www.visian.nu/images/r1150gs_1.jpg


ian

[SimonThomas]

Hi all,

My names Simon and my wife is Lisa. We've been members now (thanks to a good friend) for about 2 months now and thought it was time we sorted ourselves out and starting posting here.

We're both Brit's and left the UK 5-years ago to travel around the world for 2-years. Yeah, you can see the dillema:D We've been diagnosed as having 'Geographic Dyslexia Syndrome', just cant seem to find our way home.

I'm riding a 99' R1100GS and Lisa's on a 2002 F650GS.

http://www.2ridetheworld.com/gsclub_images/bmwmoa/us.jpg

http://www.2ridetheworld.com/gsclub_images/bmwmoa/lago_us.jpg

Right now we're half way through our goal of riding to and through 122 countries and all seven continents. Actualy, I'm just following the wife, I havn't got a clue where I'm going:brow

Back in 1999 I was involved in a serious motorcycle accident which, bar a few tendons, took 'OFF' my right foot and crushed my lower right leg. The result was almost 18-months of no walking, months of agonizing physiotherapy and 5 major operations over a 2 year period. Learning to walk again was the next big challenge. It's not all bad...18-months gives a person pause for thought and a time to reflect on the 'big picture'...hence selling everything, and finally deciding to make a long dreamt idea into a wonderful reality.

See you on the road. Ride safe but ride far!

Cheers
Simon T

[Visian]

Hi all,

My names Simon and my wife is Lisa. We've been members now (thanks to a good friend) for about 2 months now and thought it was time we sorted ourselves out and starting posting here.

simon - welcome here!

ian

[ian408]

Any of you that live near Santa Rosa BMW ought to go see Simon and Lisa. For reals.

Welcome Simon & Lisa!

[knary]

See you on the road. Ride safe but ride far!

Cheers
Simon T

:clap

Welcome.

In case anyone missed it: http://www.2ridetheworld.com/

[wldct69]

Just joined the site, and love reading about everyones rides. I have recently purchased my first BMW. The F800ST. I love it and think it has been a long time coming. I have owned Honda, Kawasaki, Yamaha, and Suzuki. I will not go back!

http://i113.photobucket.com/albums/n216/wldct69/photo.jpg

[wilcox]

I have recently purchased my first BMW. The F800ST. I love it and think it has been a long time coming. I have owned Honda, Kawasaki, Yamaha, and Suzuki. I will not go back!

I had all those others too, still have a couple.
There is no other like a BMW.

Beautiful machine. Enjoy!

Chris

[mfifer]

Some of you already know me but here goes. My wife and I are Mike & Robin Fifer in Las Cruces New Mexico. I raced bikes from the mid 60's to the mid 70's. Very amature but had loads of fun. Stopped riding for 26 years , then my dad passed away. I was given his truck and sold the one I had. Robin said "do you have a plan for the money ?" I said , "i may buy a motorcycle". I went to the Honda dealer and bought a Shadow DC750 sold it and bought a ST1300 (very much disliked the bike), sold it bought a Suzuki C50 and truely loved it (almost a perfect bike) but I could not handle the cruiser style. Just bought my just broke in 96 R1100RT in Glacier Green (wanted one ever since I saw the first one that color). I love the bike so far and seems to be a perfect fit for me being short.
Here are a few pics of old bikes and new ones I have had.

http://i42.photobucket.com/albums/e338/mfifer/ST1300/DSCN0398-600.jpg

http://i42.photobucket.com/albums/e338/mfifer/ST1300/DSCN4662.jpg

http://i42.photobucket.com/albums/e338/mfifer/ST1300/ATL-002288-1.jpg

http://i42.photobucket.com/albums/e338/mfifer/ST1300/ATL-001846.jpg

http://i42.photobucket.com/albums/e338/mfifer/ST1300/DSCN5409.jpg

http://i42.photobucket.com/albums/e338/mfifer/ST1300/772.jpg

http://i42.photobucket.com/albums/e338/mfifer/ST1300/zyamaha.jpg

http://i42.photobucket.com/albums/e338/mfifer/ST1300/img010.jpg

http://i42.photobucket.com/albums/e338/mfifer/zwheelie2.jpg

Mike

[k75s]

That Yamaha 400 is WAY cool!

[mfifer]

That Yamaha 400 is WAY cool!

Thanks , I got rid of it because after the restoration , I found I could get in a lot of trouble on it!!! You know 19 year old brain in a 56 year old body!!
:dunno

[ian408]

Thanks , I got rid of it because after the restoration , I found I could get in a lot of trouble on it!!! You know 19 year old brain in a 56 year old body!!
:dunno

Ha ha! That RD400 (and the RD350) was a cool bike.

[bmwrider88]

hello, bonjour, hola, howdy!

my name is tom, i live in central pennsylvania, near harrisburg, the state capital.
http://i261.photobucket.com/albums/ii42/ricochetrider/bmw%20pix/3044355a.jpg

i have two beemers, a pair of 88s.
K100
R100RT
http://i261.photobucket.com/albums/ii42/ricochetrider/bmw%20pix/964edc1b.jpg

i am new to the forum but did make my first post a while ago in the ride reports section...check out my "tour de frank" plus pix....about our recent visit to Falling Water, a frank lloyd wright house near pittsburgh, pa.

i am a carpenter and cabinetmaker of 31 years, and a union stagehand.
i love music, the arts, and travel. AND vintage motorcycles! i have a fantastic girlfriend with an adventurous spirit, who is learning to love my old motorcycles (and me, too, i HOPE!)!

in addition to the two bmw's, i also own 3 "brit bikes": a "bobber" with a '73 triumph 750 cc tiger engine on a '69 frame (custom one-off), a 1979 triumph bonneville (stock), and a 1974 norton 850 commando (rebuilt).

[mfifer]

Welcome Tom! I am also new here and hope you have a great time as I have so far. They all seem to be a very good group of guys and gals. Nice bikes by the by!

Mike

[bmwrider88]

hello, mike...thanks for the welcome note. nice to "meet' you...i joined the club about a month ago when i was looking to buy an R bike...i wanted to have access to the "market", then suddenly realised there's the forum, too. i thought i'd post our Frank Lloyd Wright weekend story, and so it begins!

you've had some sweet bikes over the years, BTW...is that you on the bsa flat-tracker? i also like that yamaha RD(?) 400! cool pix you posted!

having triumph and other british bikes, i am active at britbike.com, and
am flying to england in august to ride there with friends, attend the Isle of Man international bsa rally, etc..

i'm getting more and more into the bmw world now. with lots of friends around here having them, it seems the doors are opening all over the place! it's yet another great scene with even more great people, and we ALL share our love for bikes, old and new! what fun!

have a great day.
"see" you around!

tom

[mfifer]

BTW...is that you on the bsa flat-tracker? i also like that yamaha RD(?) 400! cool pix you posted!



Yes Tom , That was me once upon a time and it was a Victor with a 600 kit , sifton cam and big carb. She was no speed demon but I could outcorner the Yamaha twins and 750 HD,s but they really caught me on the straights. I did manage to beat a HD 750 once on a 1/2 mile , most likely my crowning jewel of racing. I sucked and was an amature but raced around and with some cool guys that are now or became well known , like Dave Compos (held land speed record for many years) I grew up around the Unser family (racing in the same city).
Fun Days!

Mike

[fritzsampson]

You will all notice that my F650GS has mehr gelande als strasse on it. I use it on my Iowa farms because it is cheaper to operate than my diesel pickup. Only problem is mud mud mud.

I am planning to ride to Gillette around July 13 or 14 from Omaha. I lived in the sandhills for 13 yrs, so I know the way by heart. I plan to go staight thru to Alliance, then take the scenic partial unpaved route up thru Ardmore SD, back rd into Hot Springs / Custer, pop out at Newcastle WY. Would love to ride with others. I know every gas station, cafe, and water stop between Omaha and Lusk Wy because I rode my bicycle ( yes bicycle) across Wy and Ne 5 times. Also took the bicycle from Gurnsey WY the back way to Lusk and Hot Springs a couple of times. So GPS is optional.

I have a HD 1200 Sportster too (kind of a pirty boy bike). But its not a mudder like the 650GS.

Looking forward to replies.

Fritz

[mfifer]

Fritz , Welcome and that GS looks just as it should!

Mike

[sawalt65]

Hi there fellow riders! My name is Stephanie and I've owned my 2004 R1200CL for two years (bought it brand new from Mortons BMW in Fredericksburg - great folks!) I understand that there are very few CL's out there (didn't know that when I bought it) and that it is somewhat of an eclectic bike. I've heard some tell me "it's underpowered" or that it's center of gravity is too high...after my Honda Shadow 750, I can say it was definitely different, but I've grown to love my ride and wouldn't trade it for the world. It makes for a good conversation peice and has forged some wonderful friendships along our travels.

I ride to work (104 miles roundtrip) most days until the temp sinks below about 38 degrees. I enjoy riding and am out on the Virginia roads along side my husband on most weekends (some weekends we have to make the tough choice of either fishing or riding...fishing or riding...most likely the bikes win because the boat takes longer to prep!!)

We are always looking for new routes and points of interest, so if you have any "faves" please send them my way. A day trip or even an over-nighter would be much appreciated.

We are currently planning a trip for the Outer Banks and then will move north along the eastern shore up through Ocean City MD and back over to King George, VA. Do you have any interesting routes to Nags Head? Are there any points of interest we should see?

I'm an artist - not a techie, so I hope I can master the discussion boards! Looking forward to "meeting" everyone in the forum and hopefully gain some new riding buddies!

[SAMKARI]

My name is Sam Dominico, I don't post many things on the board but I do a lot of browsing to help me get through the joys of ownership. I currently live in Winston Salem NC and this is my second time here. I am a Cardiovascular Perfusionist. I am the person who runs a heart/lung machine during heart surgery. I have been married to my wonderful wife Kari for 20 great years. We have 2 boys and they have made our lives very special. I started riding motorcycles in 2004 and my first bike was and is a R1100RT, I am the third owner of the bike and when I bought it there were only 6000 miles on it. I learned to ride in Illinois, once I moved to NC I appreciated the quality of the bike a lot more since there are many, many, more curves in the state:D. I spend a lot of time in the foothills and mountains of NC and VA. I commute to work year-round and love riding my bike.... Thanks for the opportunity to do this... great initial posting..

[mfifer]

Sam , good to have you here. Nice bike . The painted bags and trunk really set it off.
I have the paint for my bike . HUMMMM!!!
:clap

Mike

[falcon415]

Hi to all,
I got a 07 K12GT last April. It had 1400 miles.
If you have any questions about riding in RI, feel free to contact me.

I had a 99 R12C for a few years and rode that on the Blue Ridge and out to Colorado via Rt.50.
I traded in the R12 and still miss it.
I still have my 97 HD Sportster.

I just got back from a 2,800 mile trip through the Blue Ridge Parkway, Smoky Mountains and Chatahoochee National Forest.
To look at a few photos:

http://www.kodakgallery.com/MyGallery.jsp?autologin=true&c=b3_hom_sign_ret&UV=490786114490_687661932307


Motorcycle Trip Data
Blue Ridge Parkway, Suches, Georgia and Smoky Mts.
12 days, 2833 miles

6/21/08
Day 1 - Leave Warwick RI 5:15AM; Odometer=2650
All Highway;
Arrive Martinburg , West Virginia 4PM; Odom=3088
11 hours; 438 miles
----------------------
Day 2 - 6/22 - Leave 8AM;
Skyline Drive and beginning of BlueRidge Parkway
Afternoon rain; Arrive at Buena Vista VA,@4PM; Odom=3309
Bueuna Vista Motel was AWFUL

All 2 lane mountain road; 8 hours; 221 miles
------------------------
Day 3 - 6/23 – Leave 7:30AM
More of the Blue Ridge Parkway. Excellent weather.
Arrive at ‘Little Switzerland’ (nice place) @6:30. 11 hours; 300 miles
Odom=3608
------------------------
Day 4 – 6/24 – Leave 9:30AM
Completed the Blue Ridge PW. Sunny/Warm
Arrive Cherokee, North Carolina @2:30PM
5 hours; 155 miles. Odom=3763
------------------------
Day 5 – 6/25 – Stayed in Cherokee another day.
Rode through and around the Smoky Mountains.
Leave 9:30AM, Return 2:30PM
5 hours; 118 miles. Odom=3881
------------------------
Day 6 – 6/26 – Leave 10:00AM
Arrive in Suches GA at 2:30PM for a 4 day stay
at ‘High Valley Cabins’.
4.5 hours; 107 miles. Odom=3988
------------------------
Day 7 – 6/27 – Friday my nephew arrived, (Yamaha R1) and we
rode Rt.60, Rt.180 and a few other loops around the mountains in northern GA.
4 hours; 112 miles. Odom=4100
------------------------
Day 8 – 6/28 – Leave 9:30AM. A wicked awesome day.
Rode north beginning on Rt.60 to the Cherohala Skyway,
Rt.28 and returned to Suches via a number of 2 lane roads.
Spent some time helping to fix my nephew’s bike. (Fuel line leak)
Returned to Suches at 5:15.
8 hours; 223 miles. Odom=4383
------------------------
Day 9 - 6/29 - Rode a short loop aound the northern GA mountain area
97 miles. Odom=4420
Rested for the long, (1063 mile) highway ride home.
------------------------
Day 10 – 6/30 -- Leave Suches 9AM
Returning home via Rts.85N, 77N & 81N.
Arrive New Bern VA @6PM
9 hours; 380 miles. Odom=4800
------------------------
Day 11 – 6/31 - Leave 6:30AM
Arrive Clinton, NJ @ 5PM
10+ hours; 451 miles. Odom=5251
------------------------
Day 12 – 7/1 – Leave 7AM
Arrive home, (RI) @11:30
4.5 hours; 232 miles. Odom=5483

[sawalt65]

Hi "Falcon". Welcome to the forum. I tried to view your photos from your link, But I couldn't see your album. I have a login and pwd for the Kodak site. Is your album "public" or shared?

Also, what do you use to log your trip? Laptop? NotePad? I ask because we're about to start a road trip down the Carolina coast and back up through DelMarVa and I'd like to keep a trip log without having to drag the laptop along. :banghead

(Of course dragging the laptop along would be much better than trying to decipher my handwriting!):confused:

So you miss your R12?...You have a fine replacement!:rocker

[falcon415]

Hi,

Try this address. Yes, it is public.

http://www.kodakgallery.com/MyGallery.jsp?autologin=true&c=b3_hom_sign_ret&UV=349139201286_759545842307

I prefer to write ride info in a real notebook with a pen rather than make room for my laptop.
I miss the 99 R12C since I had a few excellent trips on it: Rocky Mts via Rt50
and the Blue Ridge too. I just needed something that is more comfortable on twisty roads.

Bob Falcon

[oggundakete]

Hi Folks this is Rick (Ricardo) from Mexico City. I started on bikes at 4yo since my father used to take me with him on his Triumph 650, and lerned to drive at 10 during a vacation staying in Tacoma with Hudson family which had some off road bikes.
I'm Medicine Doctor with Master in Health Care Administration, I do some consultancy to small hospitals down here where I have a small company, but most of my time I treat and do spiritual consultacy since I'm a Yoruba Religion priest (Cuban Santeria). Know I'm learning Astrology what I like a lot.

I live in south Mexico City, at Coyoacan District (I took the photo outside my house, and back of me you can see San Francisco Catholic Church). Love to ride my "Blanquita" (Whitie)on weekends on short trips not far from the city. I too have a 94' Virago 1100, and 2007Virago250(my wife), which I use more to drive through the city jams and move arround daily.

Hope to find new friends and maybe soon drive in US, since I might move part time to Florida.

About my 90' K100LT. It came to Mexico from Germany in 1989 and it's original paint is red, but BMW paited white and send it to test drives to the mexican highway police force, they returned it back and a friend bought it in 1992, then he kept on garage for long time because he bought another beemer and I'm the second owner.

[mfifer]

Hi Rick ! Welcome!

[oggundakete]

Thanks Mike.

[lightzoo]

Hello,

Name’s Kennis here and home is Morgantown, WV where I can drop the weed eater and be on the twistys in a matter of minutes. I joined the MOA in May and since have read many interesting post, enjoy the Photography form and picked up a wealth of knowledge on various topics.

The photo is my ‘02RT and myself.

<a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/thelightzoo/HoldingTank/photo?authkey=Z67mDpiyHHQ#5225309913676098210"><img src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/thelightzoo/SIQHrn39qqI/AAAAAAAADx4/78Z6e5sZ0ik/s800/20060617_0294.JPG" /></a>

[kingsburyj]

Hey guys looking for some advice. Rode my 1996 1100GS from San Diego to Gillette and couldn't beleive how dependble these MC are. Bike ran perfect only problem was me!! I'm 6'3" about 230Lbs. and after a few hours of riding my neck it seems like at he top of my spinal cord had a searing pain untill I got off the bike for a few minuets. Back on the bike for a few hours and same thing with the pain again. I have the bar back risers on it which I thought would cure the problem,no such luck. Any suggestions? I have been riding all different types of bikes for 40 years but never this distance at one time. I think its got something to do with ergonomics but I don't know what I need to do to correct this problem. I'm 61 and plan on riding untill I cant get get my leg over the bike anymore and will take any advice you guys can give me!!
Thanks, Joe Kingsbury BMWOA # 112944:usa
jak.20@netzero.net
(619) 571-5721

[bmwkrider]

Ello, said with a british accent that I do not have. But, hey what can I say it sounds cool though. The name is David (born and raised in Orlando, FL) and I have just purchased my first Bmw bike. Wanted to join the fun. I have always loved Bmw's, there are some of the most beautiful and best engineered motorcycles out there. Sorry dont want to babble on. Again, Hello and hope to meet some of you in the near future. Thank you David.

[atlbmw]

A few years ago, I rented a scooter in Europe and somehow survived the windy mountain roads. Upon return, I figured I should sign up for a motorcycle class to have atleast some idea of what I should be doing. I found the MSF BRC offered through Honda in atlanta/alpharetta. I learned the basics, but was still a bit nervous to be on a real bike. I thought it was strange that most of my class had already purchased their dreaamm bikes, yet had not ridden a day in their lives...strange. The instructors hammered into our heads that even though we all passed the course, it didn't mean that we were road worthy just yet. It takes years and many miles in different situations to become an experienced rider. It was a great class, but don't think you're roadworthy just because you "passed the class."

After the November 07 class, I started casually looking for motorcycles on the usual sites. Within 2 weeks, I found a 95 k75 with a little over 14000 miles, an aftermarket national cycle windshield, bmw hard bags, heated grips, and ABS. price was right. paint was good. mechanically good. I figure that now is as good of a time as any, so I closed my eyes and handed over the cash. I couldn't believe I actually bought a motorcycle, but I haven't looked back since.

I began all my riding in the treacherous traffic of atlanta and the great mountain roads of Georgia and North Carolina. I commute as much as I can to work, but I'm very cautious of the lousy cages on the road. So, I take a more stress-free route that I've used for years with my bicycle.

I've managed to put over nearly 5,000 miles on my k75 with trips to Clearwater, FL (all highway), the Cherohala skyway, great smoky mountain highway, richard b. russell scenic highway, the tail of the dragon, maggie valley, helen, suches, and brasstown bald.

In San Jose, CA, I rented a k1200gt and was blown away by the differences with my k75. heated seats? electric windshield? suspension modes? a 6th gear? twice the hp with only adding a few lbs? wow! The rental company and employees far exceeded my expectations. I tacked on the Santa Cruz Mountains, the PCH (half moon bay down to carmel), carmel valley rd, ca25, and the diablo range. What a great 500 mile day trip.

I'm looking forward to riding more in north georgia, some of alabama, and following the entire blue ridge parkway from nc to va this fall. By spring time, I hope to add in some more long weekend trips around the south. Eventually, I'd like to head back out west for a more lengthy trip.

When I'm not riding, I'm playing soccer, training for triathlons, scubadiving, working as a software/collaboration consultant, "volunteering" for the family drycleaning/tailoring business, and volunteering for various non-profits in town.

Be safe!
See you on the road!!!
Shiny side up!!!

Cheers,
Theo

[Visian]

I'm looking forward to riding more in north georgia...

theo, welcome!

if you haven't come across the georgia club (http://www.bmwmoga.info) yet, please take a moment to find out.

and next month we are having a mini-rally/campout at lake tobesofkee, which is near macon.

details about that will be on our web site soon, but this will be an ideal opportunity to meet the like-minded locals.

ian

[Visian]

We are always looking for new routes and points of interest, so if you have any "faves" please send them my way. A day trip or even an over-nighter would be much appreciated.

hi stephanie - welcome.

in the western tip of the great state of virginia, the grayson highlands state parks is one of my favorite places to visit.

all manner of twisty roads abound in the area, but one of the best is VA16, especially the part north of I-81 as it goes up into west virginia.

hope to meet you at next year's rally.

ian

[sawalt65]

We will definitely check that out. :lol

We'll be coming from the Northern Neck (King George), so that should be a nice ride.

We just finished a 1,200 mile ride to the Outer Banks, from King George to Ocracoke and up the east cost to Ocean City, MD last month. That was my first week long road trip on my bike - and Man! I had a blast! I was pleasantly surprised by the comfort my bike offered...I thought it would be more "painful". Thanks to some new highway pegs and the 'ol brilliant BMW engineering, it was quite comfortable.

[NickWi]

Hi ya’ll,

I’ve been off and on bikes for the last 25 years, all Japanese Bikes. Finally found myself riding a 2001 R1100R. I traded my beloved “Z 1000 Kawasaki” for the BMW because my arthritic hips just couldn’t take the scrunched-up riding any longer; wow, I can get on this bike and ride forever and I love the fact that it’s so easy to work on, adjusting the valves on an inline four rice rocket is not fun, adjusting the valves on my boxer is akin to brushing my teeth, takes just a few minutes and gives you a good feeling. Gawd I love this Motorbike.:blah

Cheers,

Nick

[lineman126]

Hello to everyone. My name is Scott Nogrady. I've been riding motorcycles for almost 30 years now. I started out on a Honda CT 70 then I had a CR 80 elsinor, then a yamaha 100 enduro, to a cr 125, to a cr 250 that I raced motocross on, then a honda XL 600, and then a yamaha 650 Special. I lost my license for about 4 years do to speeding tickets, many, many speeding tickets. :doh When I got it back I went back to racing motocross on a rm 250 wich I broke my hip on. I quit racing by the request of the wife and started woods riding with Friends for fun. I had an Electra glide classic that I rode across country on. Sold that for a 79 Super glide with 18 inch ape hangers. I had caught to much crap from my buddies for riding a bagger. My woods bike at the time became a yamaha wr 400 that I loved. It was also made street legal, barely that is. I sold that after two years for a KTM 520 exc and that bike about killed me in the woods. It truley was a beast of a machine. I went to Vintage days in Ohio and test rode a Triumph tiger. WOW, what a blast. I went to European motorcycles in PA with the intention of trading in the harley and buying a Tiger. I ended up selling the superglide myself and purchased an 04 RT 1150 instead of the tiger. It caught my eye in the show room and said, "buy me not the Tiger!":laugh One test ride on it with that power windshield and it's smooth ride I was hooked. So was the wife. She liked riding on the back of it way better than the harley. When our son was born 3 years ago I sold all the bikes.:rolleyes I just recently bought a 76 R60/6 with a sputnik sidecar and that is my long life story of riding motorcycles shortened. I've always loved motorcycles and will continue to ride them until I'm in the ground. I look forward to passing on my love of them to my son and doing many journeys with him on them. :drink

[mfifer]

lineman126
Great to have you here and loved the picture in the Mug topic.
Hope you really are enjoying the BMW's as most of us seem to.



Mike

[cyclepath]

This looks like the best place for my first BMWMOA post!:type

Four years ago I transfered with work from Florida to Cumming, GA, just North of Atlanta. My family took a trip with me to the N. Georgia mountains after we settled in, and I immediately told my wife that I had to get a motorcycle. My wife was not crazy about my idea, but she did encourage me to take the MSF course before I purchased my first bike. She and my son now tell me four bikes later that I am a psycho when it comes to motorcycles, hence my screen name Cyclepath.:thumb I love all types of riding inluding dirt, touring, or simple short jaunts to the store.

My first bike was a Honda VFR which I recently sold thank goodness without a scratch on it:

http://i51.photobucket.com/albums/f394/scceptor/DSCN0243.jpg

This bike will always have a place in my heart. The VFR took good care of me getting through those first couple years of riding. My favorite ride was an Iron Butt ride to New Orleans for lunch on Burboun Street. I also attended the 2007 Winter Rally in Florida with my father on this bike. This was my first BMW Rally which I absolutely loved. I made some great frineds and could not beleive how much I learned about bikes and riding over the course of the weekend. My Dad rides a 1150RT, and is my favorite riding partner. I knew when I left that rally in Florida, I was going to be BMW owner sooner than later.

My father's toy at the Winter Rally:

http://i51.photobucket.com/albums/f394/scceptor/2006%20BMWNEF%20Winter%20Rally/100_0179.jpg

A little over a year ago I purchased an 08 KLR650. The GS was not in the budget and I was itching to take in some fire roads while adding another horse to the stable. I love this bike! Unfortunately I learned what loose gravel, to much speed, and inexperience can lead to on this baby.

http://i51.photobucket.com/albums/f394/scceptor/KLR%20Accident%20Suches%2011307/DSCN0143.jpg

I was wearing all of my gear and fortunately was not hurt. The bike was a total loss, but I picked up red 08KLR that is staying in my garage.

http://i51.photobucket.com/albums/f394/scceptor/DSCN0152.jpg

Two weeks ago I sold the VFR and headed to BMW of Atlanta to pick up my dream ride!

http://i51.photobucket.com/albums/f394/scceptor/New%202008%20GS/IMG_1200.jpg

I could not be happier with my choice. I named her Georgia! Needless to say, I am looking forward to many rides and adventures. Look forward to meeting many of you around the country over the years to come!

Shawn

[mfifer]

Shawn,
Great to have you here and you look like you really fit that GS!

Mike

[lineman126]

Thanks for the invite Mike! I really do enjoy the BMW's. I've admired them for years. My dad's friend had one when I was a kid and he always siad that BMW's where the Riders bike, not the wanna be's bike.:german



Congrats on the new bike cyclepath! I've always admired the GS's myself. Hopefully in a couple years I can pick up an old airhead GS100. They're alot cheaper than the new ones and easier for me to work on. Why don't you break her in on the October ride to Hunter Mtn? ;)

[cruisin]

From a few years ago here's (http://www.bmwmoa.org/forum/showthread.php?t=1441) a very brief history. And from an online interview (http://midliferider.com/blog/2008/03/21/conversation-with-kevin-cole-300000-crash-free-miles-and-going-strong/#more-87) that came about as a result of a reply I posted on Sport Touring.net.

[heloguy1976]

I am new to the BMW scene and I love it. I am 32 stationed in Germany currently serving the Army as a BlackHawk pilot. I have a wife and 2 kids. I have always been a rider but after watching Long Way Round I got the touring bug. Sold my Crotch Rocket and bought a 1200 GS Adv. with all the Touratech someone thinks they might need. I love it! What a great great bike, and after I finish my Iraq tour (again) I will travel Europe with the wife. Lucky for me she speaks German and a few other European languages. 5 years with this beautiful women and I speak English. There is Trilingual, Bilingual, then American. I joined BMW MOA not to long ago and it is an absolutly wonderful website. Glad to be part of it all.

I will add a pic soon, need to shrink my photo.:german

[mfifer]

Welcome Jeremy ! Glad to have you here and glad you are loving the GS .
Thanks for your service to the USA as well.
Stay Safe! and on the bike.

Mike

[criminaldesign]

Hi Everyone. My name is Houston, I am 29, looking forward to 30. I am a professional graphic designer by trade. I do both print and multimedia design. I especially love hand screen printing posters. It's the only way to get your hands dirty anymore in modern design practices.
http://i499.photobucket.com/albums/rr356/criminaldesign/pogues.jpg


I recently purchased my first bike which happened to be this serendipitous '88 R100RS.
http://i499.photobucket.com/albums/rr356/criminaldesign/MeandBike.jpg

My fathers had bikes around all of my life until I became of driving age because of layoffs. Seems like the toys are the first things to go. Therefore I had no bike around to fall in love with. Go figure, I leave home and head to Pittsburgh and my dad turns into an even more avid motorcyclist.

Fast forward to now. Things werent going so well on the marriage front so my brother invited me to join him and our father on a bike trip from Oklahoma to Oregon. I had about 2 hours of riding instruction from them, and two weeks later I had 4,500 miles under my belt on a 850 Suzuki.
http://i499.photobucket.com/albums/rr356/criminaldesign/Glacier.jpg

All I can say is I caught the fever. I've had the Beemer for a month, found it for sale on the side of the road with 34,000 miles. Picked her up for $2,800 and already put a 1000 miles on her bumping around the hills of WV. In 3 weeks I'm taking her out to Oklahoma and experience our beautiful landscape on my new fabulous machine thats as smooth as a feather. I now have a new wife, a beautiful 20 year old German, and after 9 years in Pittsburgh, I'm back in the wild and wonderful mountains of WV.

Here's my other bike where I'm acting Airhead. Haro BMX trail bike. She's adjusting fine from steady use on the Pittsburgh streets/bridges and constant climbing of PJ McArdle Roadway‎ (whew! good cardio. Single speed and no stopping. I lived at the top.) to the woods of WV.

This is today before we took a dip in Sandy Creek.
http://i499.photobucket.com/albums/rr356/criminaldesign/Haro.jpg

I may be a little late getting into motorcycles, but I look forward to talking with everyone, learning about these wonderful Beemers, and most of all, riding them. Later, h

[ian408]

Welcome Houston!

[Visian]

Houston... we have no problems here. :thumb

welcome!

ian, too

[lineman126]

We should have hooked up while you where living in the Burgh. :drink

[mpgolightly]

Hello all,

My name is Mark and I have been riding motorcycles for the last four years consistently. I started out when I was 19 with a 1979 Honda XL 100, it was my first bike and I bought it new off the show room floor for $700.00, it was an addiction right from the beginning, 8,000 miles on the little Honda in 18 months. I rode that thing in the rain, the snow and other less friendly weather. Then there was a lull in the riding for a few years.

In 04 I bought a Honda 600VLX, traded that in for a new 05 VTX 1300R, then I added a 1992 wing to the barn, but, my wife was not to keen on riding, sold the wing. Then this summer I bought my first BMW, an R1200GS, and I love it :heart . Ten weeks old and 4200 miles on it.:clap

Riding is still an addiction, I ride my bike every where I can:bottle The VTX has 28k miles.
Guess I should go ride it this evening, it was crying the other day, "I use to be your favorite, until you brought the Euro-Trash home". Got to go, need to see if the Honda will start.:bolt Ride safe Mark

[criminaldesign]

Thanks guys.

We should have hooked up while you where living in the Burgh. :drink

Hey there Lineman, Appears we lived within 5 miles of each other. A friend of mine recently moved to Brookline. Noticed ink on you from your Airhead post with the sidecar (nice bike btw). Get ink done locally? Later, h

[lineman126]

Thanks guys.



Hey there Lineman, Appears we lived within 5 miles of each other. A friend of mine recently moved to Brookline. Noticed ink on you from your Airhead post with the sidecar (nice bike btw). Get ink done locally? Later, h

Hey Houston,

Thanks. I did get most of my work done around Pittsburgh. Unfortunatley my favortie guy stopped tattooing and startyed a regular job.:cry I keep trying to convince him to come back. I just saw that you are out in CO. I haven't gotten there yet. Hopefully soon. We should hook up and do a ride when you get back on the Eastern end of the country. Have a great trip.:drink

[knary]

Hi Everyone. My name is Houston, I am 29, looking forward to 30. I am a professional graphic designer by trade. I do both print and multimedia design. I especially love hand screen printing posters. It's the only way to get your hands dirty anymore in modern design practices.
http://i499.photobucket.com/albums/rr356/criminaldesign/pogues.jpg


I recently purchased my first bike which happened to be this serendipitous '88 R100RS.
http://i499.photobucket.com/albums/rr356/criminaldesign/MeandBike.jpg

My fathers had bikes around all of my life until I became of driving age because of layoffs. Seems like the toys are the first things to go. Therefore I had no bike around to fall in love with. Go figure, I leave home and head to Pittsburgh and my dad turns into an even more avid motorcyclist.

Fast forward to now. Things werent going so well on the marriage front so my brother invited me to join him and our father on a bike trip from Oklahoma to Oregon. I had about 2 hours of riding instruction from them, and two weeks later I had 4,500 miles under my belt on a 850 Suzuki.
http://i499.photobucket.com/albums/rr356/criminaldesign/Glacier.jpg

All I can say is I caught the fever. I've had the Beemer for a month, found it for sale on the side of the road with 34,000 miles. Picked her up for $2,800 and already put a 1000 miles on her bumping around the hills of WV. In 3 weeks I'm taking her out to Oklahoma and experience our beautiful landscape on my new fabulous machine thats as smooth as a feather. I now have a new wife, a beautiful 20 year old German, and after 9 years in Pittsburgh, I'm back in the wild and wonderful mountains of WV.

Here's my other bike where I'm acting Airhead. Haro BMX trail bike. She's adjusting fine from steady use on the Pittsburgh streets/bridges and constant climbing of PJ McArdle Roadway‎ (whew! good cardio. Single speed and no stopping. I lived at the top.) to the woods of WV.

This is today before we took a dip in Sandy Creek.
http://i499.photobucket.com/albums/rr356/criminaldesign/Haro.jpg

I may be a little late getting into motorcycles, but I look forward to talking with everyone, learning about these wonderful Beemers, and most of all, riding them. Later, h

:thumb

Any more samples of work? :D

[SCQTT]

Scott 42

Motorcycle industry guy for 20 years

Motorcycle license for 26 years.

First BMW (73 R90/6) in 88 or so.

Have owned 8 BMWs, still have 5 of the eight (regret selling the other 3)

Have owned about 25 or so other bikes, sill have a few of them too.

BMWs are weird, but they get in your blood and are hard to give up.

BMW riders are even stranger than the bikes. They tend not to get in your blood, but easily get on your nerves.

[criminaldesign]

Hey Guys.

Thanks Knary, Tessler said I should get in touch with you as you're a fellow designer and painter.

My portfolio site is like 99% there, hope to have up in the next week or two.
Heres a few of my screen prints: http://www.gigposters.com/designer/29062_Criminal_Design.html

Hows about you?

Lineman, unfortunately I'm not in Colorado, that was in June, but I'm heading back west to Oklahoma in October. But we should definitely hook up and ride the bikes. I'll shoot you a message next time I'll be in the burgh. I still work remotely for my job up there, so I'll be in the city every once in awhile.

Take care, h

[lineman126]

Hey Guys.
Lineman, unfortunately I'm not in Colorado, that was in June, but I'm heading back west to Oklahoma in October. But we should definitely hook up and ride the bikes. I'll shoot you a message next time I'll be in the burgh. I still work remotely for my job up there, so I'll be in the city every once in awhile.

Take care, h

:doh That's my bad for not looking at the dates from the post.
Enjoy your Oklahoma trip. I look forward to hooking up and doing a ride.:drink

[ownst1100]

Hi all!

I've been lurking for sometime and thought i'd finally step up an say HI! I grew up around motorcycles. My dad alway's had at least 6 bikes in his line up. At some point in time he added a 4 car shop off the back of the garage for doing motorcycle restorations. I alway's remember an Indian or two along with a Triumph, Norton , or BSA in the process of being torn down or being put back together. My older brother to this day still builds one of the best looking Triumphs out there. So many bikes went through that shop. I can remember Steve McQueen stopping by from time to time to check up on or looking into buying one of the many bikes that were finished and for sale.

My 1st bike was a Mustang. Looked more like a big minibike and together we explored all the oil fields in and around Fullerton and Brea Ca. From there it was all to easy. Between my Dad, brother, and my Dads friends bikes popped up everywhere and the deals were alway's good. Maico's, Bultaco's, MZ's, AJS, Honda,Yamaha, Suzuki, Greeve's, Montesa, ect. ect. ect. I don't think there was a brand made that didn't go through Dad's shop. If there was it be seen over at his friend Ralph's shop.

Most weekends were spent out at the Salton Sea were Dad and all his friends had trailers in Desert Shores off Hwy 86. Me and few of my friends started racing motocross. Saddle Back, Escape Country, and Lion's just to mention a few were some of the many tracks where we raced. Night racing was fun. Eventually I started to race desert. This was what I really lived for. Im a desert type of guy. This all came to an end when I hurt my back in 75'. Sure I continued to ride off road but as I got older I need to not be stupid and slow down. You would think back surgery in 88' would put an end to being somewhat stupid. Nope, 4 years later after picking up a sweet YZ465 I had to go through it again.

So since then I turned to the street. Lots of Honda's as my brother is a service manager at one of the local Honda dealerships here in SoCal. My last bike before turning to BMW was a Honda ST1100. For over 6 years I rode that ST. Only after being knocked down for the 2nd time did I start to think it was time to move on. The ST had about 149,000 miles on her, she still ran and looked great but it was time to move on. Having alway's wanting a GS, I started looking. Didn't take long because my brother with his many friends and contacts found me one. An 04 R1150GS Adventurer with just 7400 miles on the clock. Already had the Jesse side luggage, Corbin seat , Ricky risers with Pro-tapper bars, plus the bike had been repainted professionally by a friend of my brothers. The color, Craftsman scew driver blue. In the almost 3 years i've owned it I've put on over 60,000 miles. Lots of camping and rally's. What I've noticed most about the BMW owners is they like to ride and camp. Something I can never get enough of.

By trade im a aircraft repair tech at a small FAA repair station here in SoCal that specializes in Twin Otters. I have learned to do all my own maintance through friends and attending tech day's put on by the local Beemer clubs in my area. I also make most of my accessories and mounts. I strive to have the perfect camping settup as do the friends I camp with. Together we make for an awsome camp.

Here are a couple of pictures of my bike.

http://i33.photobucket.com/albums/d59/ownst1100/DSCN7079-1.jpg

http://i33.photobucket.com/albums/d59/ownst1100/DSCN8316.jpg

http://i33.photobucket.com/albums/d59/ownst1100/DSCN8383-1.jpg

My GSA still has many miles left in her and I have really come to love doing the rally's. Im a talker and love to meet people and make new friends at the events. I also love to do the solo trips. Everyone needs to do a few day's with the bike camping along the way all by themselves.

Im also big on lots of pictures. Get a chance, look in my webshots below.

[kaydphillips]

i am a new beemer owner. i recently bought a 2008 F800ST and i love it. i have two other bikes (2007 ninja 250 and 2007 ninja 650). i would love to find a group of ladies or couples (my boyfriend ownes three bikes) in the spartanburg sc area who are into day trips or over-nighters. i am ready to take to the road. i don't have many miles on my new "beauty blue" but i am willing to put the miles on her. any suggestions out there?:rocker

[mfifer]

i am a new beemer owner. i recently bought a 2008 F800ST and i love it. i have two other bikes (2007 ninja 250 and 2007 ninja 650). i would love to find a group of ladies or couples (my boyfriend ownes three bikes) in the spartanburg sc area who are into day trips or over-nighters. i am ready to take to the road. i don't have many miles on my new "beauty blue" but i am willing to put the miles on her. any suggestions out there?:rocker

Welcome Kay! Hope you can find some locals to get up and go!
Hope you have fun with that new ST!

Mike

[jaherbst]

OWNST1100--Hey Kieth your just a puppy. I am 68 , still ride my five motorcycles, camp and also used to own a Mustang. Welcome and enjoyed your pictures.

Jack

[dazshy]

My wife Shy and I just joined today so we thought we would say hi. We have been thinking of becoming members for quite some time now. We hope to get to meet some of you somewhere along the road. As a quick background, earlier this year after selling everything we owned, we left Australia and arrived back in the USA where Shy my wife is from so we have family here. Our plan was to ride around the world. We bought 2 BMW bikes, an R1200GS for me and an R1100R for her. After many mods to both bikes we set off around America. 6 weeks later it all came to a screeching halt after Shy took a tumble in the Black Rock desert after hitting a patch of deep sand and broke her collarbone in 2 places. Undeterred, we regrouped back in California, sold her bike and bought her a minivan complete with a steering wheel spinner knob so she could drive with one arm, following me on my bike. 3 weeks later we were back on the road. We have travelled through the US, up through B.C. to Prudhoe Bay and the Arctic Ocean, across Canada, up to Nova Scotia and down the east coast of this awesome country. We are just about to leave Florida to head back across the bottom of the US to California. From there we plan to do a 2-up adventure down thru Mexico, Central and South America and then reassess where we go from there. We will have many questions but we are sure some of you guys and gals will be able to help.

Cheers,
Daz & Shy

[dazshy]

Welcome to the MOA and all the best in your quest beyond the horizon. I am glad you are sorted and Sky is up for the adventure ahead.

Where are you from in Australia ? Because I have friends in Adelaide and Sydney.

There is a friend on mine headed west from Florida by weeks end on a BMW GS bound for California from Daytona. Where are you in Florida ?

Hi Statdawg. We are from just outside Hobart in Tasmania. Down under down under as we like to call it. We were staying in Daytona Beach, then Port Orange just south of there. Today we are in New Orleans, leaving for New Mexico tomorrow.

Cheers,
Daz & Shy

[Backroader]

Hi everyone... This is my first post on the site.
My name is Greg and I live in Winnipeg Manitoba.
I am soon to become the owner of a F800GS, my first BMW is on route from "somewhere" to here and is expected to arrive in a timeley manner to coincide with my retirement from the railway.
I have been to a couple of National Rally's in past, as I have tagged along with a friend, who has ridden BMW's since the 1970's.
Alway's a lurker till now.... I look forward to making it to rally this year and knowing I don't have to hurry back for work after it winds up. Where is the National Rally ?

Cheers

[mfifer]

Hi everyone... This is my first post on the site.
My name is Greg and I live in Winnipeg Manitoba.
I am soon to become the owner of a F800GS, my first BMW is on route from "somewhere" to here and is expected to arrive in a timeley manner to coincide with my retirement from the railway.
I have been to a couple of National Rally's in past, as I have tagged along with a friend, who has ridden BMW's since the 1970's.
Alway's a lurker till now.... I look forward to making it to rally this year and knowing I don't have to hurry back for work after it winds up. Where is the National Rally ?

Cheers

Backroader , WELCOME !
I would guess that you are nail bitting for that GS to get there eah!


Mike

[Backroader]

Mfifer ! Thanks for the welcome.

Lets hope the winter doesn't drag on like it did last year...it was nearly May before the snow was gone in the bush.

We waited until mid May before our first good run,,,,, 1200 KMs mostly off road in four days. Lots of mud and rain and the odd snow shower.

[nytrashman]

my name is George Forman, i live in Westchester Co. NY and no, i do not sell grills for a living......LOL. what i do is drive a garbage truck and i have been doing that for the past 25 years. i started riding dirt bikes in my teens and moved on to many different road bikes over the years. my current ride is a '07 F650GS, and it is my first BMW. i have my little 650 set up perfectly for me. i have added a set of Jesse boxes, a Givi top box, Mr. Ed's custom seat, throttlemister, stebel horn, PIAA lights, BMW hand guards, TT chain guard, RKA tank bag, Ermax windscren which will be replaced in the next day or two with a parabellum for the winter riding season. i attended my first BMW rally at Rhinebeck NY (airheads at the aerodrome) this summer, then rode to the national in Gillette and finished off the rally season at Hunter Mtn. i already have reservations in Johnson City TN for next years rally. i am an AMA member (959916) as well as a BWM MOA member (130781) and i am a site administrator on the F650.com (chain gang) site. so that's about it for me, if anyone passes through the NY area drop me a line and maybe we can meet for coffee, lunch or just to BS. of course if you run into any problems i'm in the anonymous book so don't hesitate to call.

http://www.pbase.com/george_f/image/105360800.jpg

[mfifer]

George , That is a fine looking bike. I would love one but I will wait until my old R1100RT gives up .

Mike

PS , I have one of the grills you do not sell !!!! :whistle

[bmwgsrider]

My name is Anna. I live in Amarillo, TX.

I was introduced to motorcycles when I was born. I rode many of miles when I was a little girl on the back of my mom's 1983 BMW R100RS...

http://i6.photobucket.com/albums/y241/itsybitsyskier/Photo014.jpg

As I was growing up, I always wanted to be able to ride my own BMW motorcycle.

I grew up riding dirt bikes... I did not ride dirt bikes that much as I did not want to hold anyone up because I was not as fast as my brother, dad, and uncle.

As you can tell, I am not the greatest with my dirt riding skills... :rolleyes

http://www.f650.us/images/moab_2007/nb_photo302.jpg

I purchased my first BMW after I found out that BMW made a factory lowered F650 GS. My first bike was a factory lowered black 2002 F650GS that I purchased in September of 2002. When I lost the bike due to a wildfire, I purchased a red 2006 factory lowered F650GS.

I currently have a Wolfman Denali tag bag, Jesse Bags, PIAA 510 series aftermarket lights, Givi top box, Touratech chain guard, BMW engine guard, Ermax windscreen, PowerPegz, BMW handguards with Touratech Spoilers, Hippo Hands, and some other misc. farkles.

http://i6.photobucket.com/albums/y241/itsybitsyskier/IMAG0040.jpg

Parked at work as I ride daily.

I joined the Chain Gang in February of 2006. After joining the Chain Gang, I have dedicated my time as being a Moderator and now I am an Administrator. I am well known on the Chain Gang for crashing my bike off-road. :laugh

http://i6.photobucket.com/albums/y241/itsybitsyskier/151849639_goWjo-O.jpg

After being talked into it by a close friend, I joined the AMA back in March. My mom has been a lifetime member with the MOA before I was born.

http://i6.photobucket.com/albums/y241/itsybitsyskier/IMAG0045.jpg

I finally joined the MOA a few months ago when I was told by a close friend I would lose my sticker if I did not do so... :rolleyes

Feel free to give me a shout if you are coming through my neck of the woods...

[sinclairniu]

Hi, my name is Sinclair. I am a very very new motorcycle rider, started in this summer. Bought 1984 Honda Magna and 1985 BMW K100RS. But I think I will keep my beemer and sale the Honda.

I am glad to join BMW MOA and hope all of you can help me and teach me ride.

[mfifer]

Sinclair , Welcome. We hope to see pics of you and the bike. Also hope you are enjoying riding and playing safe. :brow
Mike

[sinclairniu]

Thank you very much, Mike
Try to get some pictures soon.

[John Ephlin]

My name is John Ephlin, I am 80 years young, have been riding sence 1947, baught my first bmw in 1999, I PRESENTLY RIDE AN 2004 R1150RT, hope to ride at least another 20 years.:buds :kiss :bikes














R

[john1691]

And I hope you make that 20 years!

[mfifer]

My name is John Ephlin, I am 80 years young, have been riding sence 1947, baught my first bmw in 1999, I PRESENTLY RIDE AN 2004 R1150RT, hope to ride at least another 20 years.:buds :kiss :bikes


GO JOHN GO !!!!!!:brow


Mike

[larson]

I just recently purchased a 1200 GS Adventure and registered today with BMW MOA. I have had a number of different dirt and street bikes and now I have found the one that truly fits me and my style of riding.

I'm looking forward to the many adventures that await.
Safe riding.

Take care,
Jamie

[mfifer]

I just recently purchased a 1200 GS Adventure and registered today with BMW MOA. I have had a number of different dirt and street bikes and now I have found the one that truly fits me and my style of riding.

I'm looking forward to the many adventures that await.
Safe riding.

Take care,
Jamie

Jamie , You are in for a blast and meeting some of the coolest and mellow folks on the planet (must be the bikes).
Welcome !

http://i42.photobucket.com/albums/e338/mfifer/ST1300/Carpooling.jpg
Thanks to Bob's BMW

Mike

[jgraham6]

James from Tucson/Los Angeles. Currently on a 1994 K75RT, second BMW, 7th bike. Rode uop to San Francisco last week and on the way back accidentally discovered HWY 152 which took me from the hellacious 5 south through the most beautiful twisty part of CA garlic farms and then out to the Pacific Coast Highway. No traffic at all. Roads like butter.
Next up 10 east 19 south to Nogales!!!

[tessler]

James from Tucson/Los Angeles. Currently on a 1994 K75RT, second BMW, 7th bike. Rode uop to San Francisco last week and on the way back accidentally discovered HWY 152 which took me from the hellacious 5 south through the most beautiful twisty part of CA garlic farms and then out to the Pacific Coast Highway. No traffic at all. Roads like butter.
Next up 10 east 19 south to Nogales!!!

Welcome aboard jgraham6! Please post as many pictures as you can of that 94 K75RT and don't hesitate to share and show stories and images of your recent exploits on the roads out in California!

:thumb

[mfifer]

Welcome aboard jgraham6! Please post as many pictures as you can of that 94 K75RT and don't hesitate to share and show stories and images of your recent exploits on the roads out in California!

:thumb

Yeah , What He Said !!!!!:wave

[gs100bert]

just signed on today ,been riding a 1990 r100gs for 13 years its a great bike it took me to nukusp bc for a bmw rally a few years ago 1st one . now that the separation in half way done i might make it to a few more .

[afriedl]

Greetings All,
I live in Beloit WI, on the stateline.I bought a 77 R100/7 in May of 08 from Beaver Dam WI. It has been flawless riding season. The hardest part was getting the bike home from the dealer. Took my "motorcycle" friend with me, he had a M class license. We took two lane roads back home. Now it took about an hour and a half to get there on four lanes in my car but in May of 08 all rivers were on at flood stage so all towns on the way back had detours. Normally this perfect, but.... The dealer had restored the bike from a trade in. Repainted, many new parts stuff like that. They'd had it for sale for some time..... So..... they fill the tank, we check the engine oil level, and and off we go.... All is well. We drive for an hour and detoured a few cities. I was leading in the car as we were getting ready to detour the next city. I pulled over next to a farm just out of town. I was checking at the gps and the detour looked really out of the way so I stopped to conference about going off the designated route. As I did my friend Greg asked to check the back tire because he said it felt like he just got a flat. I look and the rear tire is covered in oil. Shhhhh***ttt Look under bike, no trans plug... Called dealership and try to explain where the hell we are. They send some parts dude with a new plug and oil. We are just standing there so we park the bike at the farm house we are in front of, he's very nice guy... We drive back following the oil streak till it stops and start looking for the plug. Looked for a few minuets and bingo! there it is... No damage. Called the dealership and they called back the parts dude. Went into the small town we were near and found an Ace Hardware. Bought the new trans oil. Installed nut, refilled oil. We were off. Now I just wanted to get home. Took all the detours and four hours later we were home.

I want acknowledge my good friend Greg Joos. He drove that day and was my riding partner this summer. He passed away suddenly last October. He was trying to get me to buy a bike for the last ten years when I finally got funding in May. He was really psyched. We had a fun summer..

Here is the bike the day we got it home.
Trying to post my first pic. Hope it works...

[Holly]

Welcome, Alfredl,
That's a wonderful first post, and the picture looks great. I'll bet Greg is watching you from the other side, and enjoying your riding that beautiful bike as much as you are.

Holly

[SIBUD]

Welcome Alfredl,

Glad to have you here. Sorry to hear about your riding buddy. Glad you finally got to ride together.

Beloit is my birthplace. However, the home place is now gone. Across the street from the college and there is a "fake" stone water tower standing there now.

Looking forward to more ride reports next summer with pics.

[porkchopgreasy]

After about 20 years in the service, figured I needed to challenge myself a little more and started looking into riding a little over two years ago. Of course, the wife (and my two daughters) thought I was nuts.

Bought a 99 F650 at Hermys in Pottsville, PA. Wonderful folks up there. My wife didn't talk to me for a month. My plan was to see if I still had my sea legs, since I had not ridden in over 18 years. My thoughts, "If I scare myself to death, I'll just sell her." Well, plenty of folks here in Harrisburg, PA attempted to do it but that bike got me through plenty of possible "scrapes".

After riding dirt bikes as a kid, I knew I wanted in on the "adventure scene" and after a year on the chain, I had to move up. Put 'ol red in ebay and sold her in 5 days to a good bloke from Long Island, NY. Couldn't believe meeting this dude at the train station and he just rode her off back to NYC.

The next day, I picked up a 95 1100GS, and my life has not been the same. I have put over 5K on her this summer and into late fall. Loved 'ol red but the shaft is definitely where its at! A little over a month ago, I hit a deer at about 30 mph with the right valve cover (then my knee, then my shoulder). Bike and me made it through just fine (btw, she was fine, watched the deer shake her head and run off). When I got to work, I put her on the stand and just stood there for about five minutes shaking like a junky jonesing for a fix.

Best to all over Christmas and the New Year!

http://i420.photobucket.com/albums/pp284/porkchopgreasy/red.jpg

http://i420.photobucket.com/albums/pp284/porkchopgreasy/100_0084_3.jpg

[mfifer]

PCG , Nice to have you here and love your GS.
Glad all is well with you.
Mike

[porkchopgreasy]

mfifer, Thanks. Saw your earlier post, sorry to see the damage. I haven't been in White Sands in a long time. Hopefully the winds have died down............pcg :thumb

[mfifer]

mfifer, Thanks. Saw your earlier post, sorry to see the damage. I haven't been in White Sands in a long time. Hopefully the winds have died down............pcg :thumb

Oh yeah , I am ready to ride. Got my Hella lights fixed and ready to go.

:wave

[PaulCibulka]

I'm new to the whole BMWMOA thing. I use to ride when I was young and thorougly loved it. However, I had to pay for university and the bike had to go. Over the past 18 months, I kept hearing the "call of the wild" to ride again. I did a bunch of research on bikes and riding and felt that the K12LT was the bike for me. I bought an '05 in the fall and have put about a 1m miles on it before the weather turned to winter. I live in the Chicago area and weather sure puts a halt to riding bikes.

I plan on taking the MSF ERC in the spring. And, looking forward to taking a couple of journeys in the near future. Please share your insight into what's in store for me in my first full biking season in '09.

Thanks,
Paul

[mfifer]

I'm new to the whole BMWMOA thing. I use to ride when I was young and thorougly loved it. However, I had to pay for university and the bike had to go. Over the past 18 months, I kept hearing the "call of the wild" to ride again. I did a bunch of research on bikes and riding and felt that the K12LT was the bike for me. I bought an '05 in the fall and have put about a 1m miles on it before the weather turned to winter. I live in the Chicago area and weather sure puts a halt to riding bikes.

I plan on taking the MSF ERC in the spring. And, looking forward to taking a couple of journeys in the near future. Please share your insight into what's in store for me in my first full biking season in '09.

Thanks,
Paul
Welcome Paul! I think you will have a GREAT riding season and I KNOW you will have fun in the MSF class. It was nothing like I had expected and was quite a ball on the fat tired 250 Yamaha I rode.
Mike

[craigeli]

Good Day to all
Im not good at this sort of hing but lets try. First my wife is the reason for my riding. We met 25 years in Germany and all she talked about was BMW bikes and she was going to have one some day. (she was riding a suzuki 400). Ok lets fast foward, 18 months ago i got a wild hair and got my MC permit and signed up for MSF rider course. Well she was dumbfounded and ticked. You see her MC lic was never Transfered to US. Well ( I GOT THE BUG) both of us and our son got our lic within 1 month. Last month she finally got her dream a brand new R1200R for her birthday. As for me i ride a suzuki bandit 1250abs and son has a kaw ninja 500. Well thats our story and im sticking to it. We plan on riding as much as possible and hope to meet people from all over.
Craig Haviland
Geli Haviland
Christopher Haviland
Allentown pa area

[Vagabird]

Welcome to the forum, Craig. Your wife sounds like a keeper. :german Oh, after 25 years you already know that.

[mfifer]

Sounds like loads of fun ! Welcome Haviland's !!

[staciebug]

:dance I am 23 years old and just bought my first bike in June, an 85 K100RS. I had a blast all summer.I learned a lot about riding technique, had fun and experienced the reality of someone crashing while on a ride. (She is ok, her bike is not). I was only able to log about 3,000 miles before the snow was flying. I am using my bike to get to the University and plan on saving for a new K bike when I graduate. Haven't decided which one yet. :dunno Besides bikes, I compete in ballroom and latin dance, ride horses, camp and anything fun. Life is short, you can sleep when your dead. :brad

Stacia member #144945

[roofertoo]

I’m new to the forum here and enjoying exploring my way around, meeting a few of you and reading the great amount of information available.

I’ll be coming up on my 4th summer of riding this year. I bought my K75s with 11,000 miles on it and have around 43,000 miles right now. I love riding this bike and it is just now starting to feel like it’s getting broken in.

I’ve rode down the west coast 3 times now. Many trips to eastern WA and one wild ride with Roger Reuben up to his place one night in Pt. Alberni, BC. As many of you know, Roger passed away suddenly last month.
http://www.bmwmoa.org/forum/showthread.php?p=405855#post405855

When I started looking for a bike to ride I had no idea what I wanted. Friends of mine that knew Roger took me to his shop one day to meet him and look at his bikes. One of Roger’s good friends Dr. Mike took me aside and talked to me about the K75’s for starters. It was an amazing day where everyone showed up at the shop all at once. Roger was in his prime and holding court, and the stars must have been lined up for me because there hasn’t been any looking back since. I found my Dakar yellow K75s on the IBMWR web site and as they say the rest is history.

I’m looking forward to meeting many of you either here online or hopefully out on the highways and byways of our great country side….

PEACE

[Vagabird]

Stacia and Steve: WELCOME TO THE FORUM!

Wishing you many happy miles. :dance

Uh, Stacia, you aren't riding in Spokane now are you? :scratch

[Visian]

:dance I am 23 years old and just bought my first bike in June, an 85 K100RS. I had a blast all summer.I learned a lot about riding technique, had fun and experienced the reality of someone crashing while on a ride. (She is ok, her bike is not). I was only able to log about 3,000 miles before the snow was flying. I am using my bike to get to the University and plan on saving for a new K bike when I graduate. Haven't decided which one yet. :dunno Besides bikes, I compete in ballroom and latin dance, ride horses, camp and anything fun. Life is short, you can sleep when your dead. :brad

Stacia member #144945

hi Stacia - welcome!

you sound like the ideal candidate to write a "my first bike" article for the Owners News.

great choice of bike, btw. the 1985s were the finest year. :nod

ian

[staciebug]

I just submitted an article to the editor and it might be put in the march or april edition. We'll see. All this snow is fun for a while but I really miss my bike right now. :dunno

[stefan2108]

hi there,
my name is Stefan and I ride an `86K100rs. While living in the states i found my way to BMW´s on an `86R80. Probably the best bike I´ve ever owned. Having moved back to germany the end of 2000 I was forced to leave my trusty steed in pennsylvania and eventually sold it two years later. Having access to the Autobahn and other great roads I though I should own something sporty. I had my suzuki sv650s for 1 year and grew tired of it. Next I moved to a Dnepr (russian) sidecar for those family outings. it was lots of fun but the lousy brakes and questionable reliability brought me back to BMW and eventually back to the MOA. Rides are now reduced to sunday mornings and an occasional long day trip.
(last spring I drove to Italy for a good cup of espresso and back in one day. little over 1000km :brad lots of fun!
let´s see where I can get my next good cup of coffee...
have to wait until spring. it´s -12C today and the battery is on the charger.

[mfifer]

Welcome Stefan!!

[MonteC]

Hi All,

My name is Monte. I've been on a bike since I was six (~32 yrs). Mostly dirt bikes and short trips on my dads GoldWings (1000, 1200, 1500). I got my first street bike (an 85 K100RT) a few years ago and have had several camping adventures with my oldest son. Looking forward to many more trips with him and my other boys.