EPCOT Food & Wine Festival - Disney World 2014

Last Saturday I ventured down to Orlando for the Food & Wine Festival!


For those who are unaware, Disney Theme Parks in Orlando, Florida throws an annual celebration at EPCOT park to celebrate the food and wine that represents the culture of dozens of countries around the world. 

EPCOT (Experimental Prototype Community of Tomorrow) is a park dedicated to Walt Disney's understanding of international contributions to the world as a whole.  The name EPCOT inspires the feeling of a futuristic world, and technically, it should.  But what's interesting about EPCOT is the park focuses less on the future, and more on the historical and cultural contributions of the main countries featured around the World Showcase:  Mexico, China, Norway, Germany, China, United States, Canada, France, Morocco, Italy, England, & Africa (the continent is represented in this case).

The festival runs from September 19th through November 10th.  Not only are all of these countries represented, but more countries are added for visitors to enjoy local cuisines.  This year, Greece, Puerto Rico, South Korea, Philippines, Poland are among the dozens of nations represented in custom food stands & booths around the park.

Thousands of people enjoy all of the food and wine they're willing to purchase.  Many people consider it a challenge and even go as far as making group t-shirts for "Eating & Drinking Around The World" and they check off the countries as they go.   It's really quite an experience and it is the perfect example of how Walt Disney World isn't just for kids.  In fact, EPCOT is the most adult-oriented theme park Disney has to offer.  Multiple 4 and 5 star restaurants represent the finer things in life for those adults looking for a nice escape from the daily hustle. 

My wife and I are annual Disney passholders and are certainly Disney "veterans".  The Food & Wine Festival is the highlight of our Disney trips and we are lucky to be able to experience it as often as we do.

-James

A Change In The Biker Community

Good afternoon!

I would like to address something I've noticed lately concerning the motorcycle community.  This of course is just my opinion.  I'd like to know how other riders feel about this, so be sure to let me know what you think.

A few weeks ago when my wife and I ventured to Daytona Beach, Florida for Biketoberfest, I couldn't help but notice that most bikers seem less friendly these days.  The respect and acknowledgement that bikers have for each other seems to be dwindling. 

In my opinion, it's protocol for a biker to nod their head or throw a wave to a fellow biker as they cross paths as a sign of acknowledgement and respect.  Driving a motorcycle sets you apart from other drivers on the road.  In a sense, it is a brotherhood.  Of course there are more distinguished groups of bikers in Motorcycle Clubs who have their own rules and regulations, but even for those MC members, is nodding to your fellow rider not a classic gesture?

On our Daytona trip, only a handful of the hundreds of bikers we encountered responded to our gestures.  I certainly understand everything is situational.  If it's not a safe time to take your hands off the controls, then of course don't do it, but I take issue with those bikers who act as if it's beneath them to return acknowledgement. 

My father used to avoid waving to other bikers on the highway, and one day I asked him why.  His answer was simple: 'Why should I risk my life by taking my hand off the controls at speed just to wave to someone? My life is more important.'  He certainly brought up a valid point, but I don't believe that is the mind set of every biker on the road, especially if you consider a large number of riders don't even wear basic protective gear.

I've also noticed an increase in wreckless and careless driving practices on the road.  If I'm at a stop light, I have no problem if another motorcyclist pulls up next to me and waits for the green light, but I have a huge problem with bikers who drive really close to me or directly beside me in the same lane. In my opinion, that is a blatant disreguard to my personal safety and to theirs as well.  What happens if I end up having to swerve or God forbid I lay down the bike?  I'm going to take out the other motorcycle as well.  Or if they have to make a quick adjustment, I could be killed or seriously injured.  There needs to be a basic understanding of the environment and riding conditions, and I don't feel many bikers have that.  Basic motorcycle etiquette is at an all time low.

My final argument derives from the type of motorcycles/motorcyclists I see on America's roadways.  Harley-Davidson.  I get it, they're America's classic motorcycle manufacturer and nothing screams red, white, and blue more than an American motorcycle.  I actually take issue with this. It isn't the fact that they ride a Harley, it's the manner in which they do it, and how they carry themselves.  I am annoyed by massive motorcycles covered in hundreds of dollars of chrome accessories on the road, being ridden by people who are more or less trying to create this "image" of what a motorcycle rider should look like.  No helmets, faux leather vests on 900 pound monster Harley's with massive body panels, sometimes blasting their music down the road. It's almost as if they're going for this "look", they all look the exact same, and don't have any regard for their personal safety, or for the safety of others (based on how they ride).  That, combined with how they present themselves on the road - arrogant, cocky, as my dad would say "king shit on turd island".  When in reality, they really look foolish, ignorant, and many of them are really assholes.

One of my best friends from my military days rides a Harley, and my father-in-law owns a Road King.  I've driven them, and I'm presenting my argument based off facts and experience.  I do see their appeal, especially for long rides or cross-country adventures.  But the attitude and personality of the bikers is changing for the worse.  The belief that a person must be a "bad ass" to ride because of chrome accessories on an enormous bike is incredibly elementary.  I own a 2008 Kawasaki Versys and a 1976 Triumph Tiger 750, but because I don't own a Sherman tank on 2 wheels, myself and others find ourselves looked down upon and shunned by these new upstart bikers who don't know the first thing about quality motorcycle sportsmanship.

I'm interested in hearing the opinions from other riders out there.  Is my view on this subject to be considered "old school"? Or does anyone else feel the same way? 


-James

 

Biketoberfest 2014

This past Saturday, my wife and I were laying in bed in the late morning.  Having stayed up until almost 2 AM the previous night playing video games & watching TV, we certainly enjoyed the extra sleep.  We've been wanting to take a ride up to St. Augustine the past few weeks, but could never get the timing right, or when we did, I didn't feel up to the drive.  As we laid there still half asleep, browsing Facebook, Twitter, & other oddities, my wife's sister called and asked if we'd like to meet them in Daytona Beach for Biketoberfest.  I didn't even know the festivities had begun, so I was surprised.

Since the passing of my father this past March, my sister-in-law & her husband (both avid motorcyclists) have hounded me to meet up with them to take a ride together, but this being Florida, it's been way too hot or too wet to take them up on their offer.  The weather on Saturday, however, was flawless.  So I said "let's do it".  They live in Jacksonville but had already arrived in Daytona when they called us.  We quickly got ready and were out the door by 11:30.  Our trip took about 2 1/2 hours, with the majority of the journey taking us through the Ocala National Forest on Highway 40.

This past weekend was also Homecoming for the University of Florida in my hometown of Gainesville.  Traffic was a complete nightmare, and our route South took us directly by campus.  Naturally we were stopped by every traffic light, drunk college student, and city bus you could imagine.  Multiple instances of hard breaking met us head on before we even got out of the city.  Certainly not an enjoyable experience.  Once we got out of the city however, the roads cleared drastically.

Thankfully, the posted speed limits on the road to Daytona are reasonable.  65mph with drops to 45mph through the smaller towns along the way.  Taking after my father, I tend to travel about 10 over the speed limit if conditions allow for it; and on this day, it certainly allowed for it.  Traffic wasn't bad at all as we headed towards the coast.  While in the Ocala National Forest, I caught up with group of other motorcycles and I figured there was safety in numbers, so I decided to stay with them until they peeled off.  I have never made the drive myself.  In fact, the last time I went to Daytona, was for Bike Week in 2003! Back then, I was the ripe old age of 13. 

The trip down was a pleasant one, ran into many different bikes both coming and going.  We even passed a 2009 Kawasaki Versys! I was so excited because I have never seen another Versys on the road.  It was certainly a great surprise to pass one.  As we drew closer to Daytona, the traffic volume dramatically increased - primarily the number of bikes on the road.

The economy in Daytona is strongly tied to the motorcycle & auto racing communities.  The majority of bars, shops, hotels & restaurants are only open a few weeks out of the year to cater to the tens of thousands of bikers and spectators that come in from all around the world during these events.  They are able to generate enough revenue during these that they are free to do other things during the year.  Not too long ago, local politicians and city leaders tried to put an end to the Bike Week & Biketoberfest festivities because they didn't think it gave the city a clean reputation. Needless to say, that proposed legislation was met with powerful opposition from business owners and locals because without Bike Week & Biketoberfest, the only other big money maker is NASCAR.  Thankfully, the locals persevered and the motorcycle festivities continue!  Daytona doesn't completely throw respect out of the window, they ask for our support in return.  Signs everywhere say "Welcome back, bikers!", "Ride Safe", "Ride Quietly", etc..  It's only fair that the locals asks for respect from the motorcycle community, Daytona is opening up their doors to thousands of strangers every year offering some of the greatest biker experiences East of the Mississippi River.  As civilized people, and as adults, we should be courteous and respectful.

The locals are always welcoming to the motorcycle community.  Of course they don't want a bunch of foolishness in their city.  As long as the majority of Bike Week & Biketoberfest visitors continue to be respectful and supportive of the local community, I don't foresee drastic changes coming about.  I also have to acknowledge the Daytona Police Department and their policies towards these events.  As long as people aren't being completely ridiculous, they've been really easy going.  There will always be those cases of fights, wreckless driving and such, but they're fairly tolerant to the daily events that occur. I also couldn't help but notice some of the motorcycle cops were riding on Suzuki V-Strom 1000s.  It was quite a scene to see matte gray & black police bikes on the road.  They easily blend in with the crowd.

We met up with the family at the BMW-Ducati-Triumph dealership, exchanged pleasantries & decided where we should eat. 

We followed their lead and had lunch at the Oyster Pub a few blocks away off A1A.  Not too many positive things to say about the Pub, as the service was somewhat inconsistent and the food was average.  However, we were just so hungry that we didn't really gripe too much.  It did however have a great atmosphere and the staff was pleasant, even if they were a tad spacey.

After a late lunch, we walked a few store fronts over and enjoyed some Turkish coffee at a Hookah Bar owned by a friend of my sister-in-law's husband.  Great guy, great shop, & if we could've stayed longer, I definitely would have enjoyed some Hookah.  Unfortunately, I made the mistake of not packing my clear helmet visor & I wasn't about to risk driving the entire trip home in the dark with a blacked out visor.   We had to cut our Biketoberfest adventure short after only a few hours. 

Traffic was heavy on the return trip home, and there were plenty of foolish (& probably drunk) bikers that made parts of the trip unnerving.  I heard of one fatality, hopefully there weren't more.

Overall, my first experience with Biketoberfest was a great one.  I enjoy the ride down to Daytona, and I appreciate the concept of bikers coming together for various events.  It will be a mad house, but perhaps next time I'll venture towards International Drive & the International Speedway.  That would certainly bring back great memories.

Ride safe.

-James

Georgia On My Mind

I apologize for the delay, this post was supposed to be added last week, but life intervened.  You all know how that goes.

On October 11, my wife and I threw on our gear and headed up to Georgia.

Initially, our plan was to ride to St. Augustine and enjoy the Atlantic Coast.  However, due to a late start, we decided to remain inland and travel up to Georgia.  Couldn't ask for better weather on our journey, high of 83 with a nice breeze, few clouds. 

To start out our trip, we had lunch in nearby High Springs at The Diner.  Throughout my childhood, this restaurant changed ownership a couple of times.  When I was in high school it was known as Floyd's Diner - a 1950's classic cafe.  It still maintains that 50's vibe today, with reasonable prices and a decent menu.

After lunch, we proceeded North on US HWY 441.  The plan was to take 441 all the way up to Georgia, passing through Lake City, White Springs, & Jasper.  The traffic was fairly light, especially for a Saturday.  Only ran into trouble as we entered Lake City, there's always that one driver who doesn't understand the concept of cruise control on their vehicle, and they continuously sped up & slowed down. This particular vehicle kept crawling up my back side and then dropping off.  I wasn't in a rush, nor was I going too slow or too fast.  Just kept going 65, but pulled off once I got into town to allow him to pass me.  I wasn't interested in having to deal with that.

The country side really opened up just north of Lake City, limited traffic allowed my wife and I to take in the sights.  I'm lucky enough to live just south of the Suwannee River Valley, and the geography of that region is very enjoyable.  Crossing the Suwannee & Ichetuknee Rivers almost makes you forget you're in Florida, as the topography gives way to hills and curved roads.  There aren't too many places in Florida like this, & discovering them is a real treat.

North of Lake City is the town of White Springs.  Founded at the turn of the 20th Century, White Springs gives visitors a great experience of "small town USA".  Massive Oak Trees line the roads, with the focal point of the town being the White Springs Bed & Breakfast, which was founded in 1905.  White Springs even comes complete with a volunteer fire department!  While we didn't stop, the sight seeing tour was enjoyable.

It seemed that every "wrong turn" I took lead us to better sights and better roads.  Couldn't go wrong with that trip.  It's a short 2-3 hour trip, but it's a nice way to burn a Saturday afternoon.  The road into Georgia was long and empty on this day, and as I stood there on the State Line, I found myself being drawn into Georgia.  While I didn't really venture across, I stood there looking down that lonely highway wanting to know what's down there.  Where would this road take me?  With nothing but swamps & fields as far as the eye could see, I wonder what was at the end of that lonely highway.  Perhaps one day I'll venture further North to see what lies ahead.

 

 

 



On the way back home, we stopped in Live Oak to stretch our legs & to give our butts a rest. A nice cold slushie from the local Burger King did the trick as we rested in the parking lot under some trees.  If you've lived in Florida as long as I have, you pretty much know where the most enjoyable places are.  Florida has an abundance of small towns, but the majority aren't worth the trip.  The Atlantic Coast is preferrable to the Gulf Coast (in my opinion), even though the Gulf does have a few hidden gems.  Just a quick shot north of Lake City opens up an area of Florida that I find most enjoyable. 

 

 

 

Thanks for reading.  Ride safe.

 

-James

2015 Kawasaki Versys 650 @ INTERMOT 2014

Good morning, everyone.

This news broke yesterday afternoon, so I apologize for the delay.  My source for the photos is asphaltandrubber.com, with the article link listed here.  They also have information on the new Kawasaki Ninja H2R, BMW R1200R & RS, along with many other models, so be sure to check them out!


That being said, let's get into it.


For those of you who don't know, INTERMOT is the International Motorcycle, Scooter & E-bike Show that takes place in Cologne, Germany every October.  Countries from all over the world come to show off their new models of two-wheeled machines.  For comparison, it's like the Detroit Auto Show, and the E3 Conference for the video gaming community, if not bigger. 

There have been a couple of "leaked" photos of the various 2015 Versys concepts over the past year, with some speculating that Kawasaki is making an 800cc variant, but they've all been identified as fakes.  While I can't say with absolute certainty that Kawasaki won't be making an 800cc Versys some time in the future, fans of the model were able to quickly identify this below image as nothing more than an "I wish" design.

 

The 650cc Versys is incredibly popular around the world, particularly in South East Asia & Western Europe. With such a huge following, it's hard to imagine Kawasaki introducing a model that very few people seem to be screaming for. Between the 650 and 1000cc models, Kawasaki seems to have a strong foothold on the market.  Introducing an 800cc could muddy the water.

 

The 2015 Kawasaki Versys 650 looks to be an incredible machine.  The most noticeable difference from previous models is the dual headlight configuration.  This certainly increases the aesthetics of the motorcycle, while improving visibility, so that other vehicles have a better chance of seeing the bike on the road. 



 

The second thing we notice from this picture is the addition of an adjustable windscreen.  I personally am intrigued by this because by adding that feature, it reduces the riders need to by a custom/aftermarket windscreen to fit their needs.  I applaud Kawasaki's desire to make the bike more rider friendly and customizable.  Also notice the angular mirrors that have carried over from the 2010 model.  It's a great look and I'm glad Kawasaki has continued that on the 2015.

Looking at the controls, not much seems different.  Horn, signals, hazards, and high/low beam controls on the left, electric starter and kill switch on the right.  The addition of what could be a fog light switch is on the right just below the mirror.  The display looks much cleaner than previous models, with the tachometer mounted above the digital spedometer and panel lights.  I'm curious to find out more about red circular display on the right of the main panel, and what looks to be an electrical port on the left.  Could it be an optional port for mounting GPS or other hardware?  They've also cleaned up the center point for the handle bars.  It used to be a large box in the middle, now it's a smoother, smaller rectangle.

To my understanding, Kawasaki kept the standard parallel twin 649cc motor from previous models.  They certainly aren't the most quiet motor, but they're popular with riders for their reliability and somewhat ease of maintenance.  Hopefully Kawasaki tweaked the design to reduce the noise.  The under carriage exhaust and the engine cover plastics have also carried over, albeit they've changed them somewhat.  Also, a larger 5.5 gallon tank was added, giving riders that extra distance they want for a good ride.

 Couldn't help but notice Kawasaki has continued to keep the excessively gaudy rear turn signal/plate mount.  In my opinion, there's no reason for that plastic guard to be so long.  Mount the reflector higher if you must.  I gave mine a clean cut just behind the plate and I think it looks great.

 Overall, I'm incredibly excited to see the new 2015 Kawasaki Versys 650.  I think they've done a great job re-imagining the design and bringing together all of the positive aspects of the 2008-2014 models. Dual headlights, adjustable windscreen, cleaner display, smoother lines, a larger fuel tank, and a few updates to the electrics & body.  While I don't see myself owning the new model any time soon, I'll certainly be sure to test drive it once my local dealer gets them in stock.

Let me know what you think! What's your opinion on the new Versys? Did Kawasaki knock one out of the park, or did they strike out? If you liked this post be sure to give it a +1 on Google, and press that follow button so you don't miss out on future postings. 

Also be sure to check me out on Twitter @FloriderRiderFL! and use the hashtag #TheFloridaRider for Twitter & Instagram!

Thanks!

-James

Plenty of Down Time Lately

It has been a pretty uneventful few weeks since my last post.

The weather has consistently been hot and rainy, but the mornings are starting out cooler (upper 60s) with slightly lower humidity.  It's still a bit too warm for taking the bike out, but it shouldn't be too long before the motorcycle becomes my daily driver once again!

Speaking of motorcycles, I just dropped mine off at the shop on Saturday to get it's first good tune up and inspection.  It's starting to become "motorcycle season" in Florida again, and I want to make sure the bike is good to go for those long weekend trips I plan on taking.  I also requested a quote for getting my rims powder coated.  I think the bike would look good with black rims instead of the factory silver.

Other than taking the bike to the shop, I haven't been doing much else other than putting in hours at the office.  Mid-late Summer tends to become like Groundhog Day for me as I look foward to Fall.

I should be hearing from my mechanic by the end of the week.  I told him to take as long as he needs, I'm not in a rush.  When I pick up the Versys, I'll have to ask him if he's willing to look at my '76 Triumph.  I look forward to taking that bike out on the road in the future.

I hope for a great riding season this Fall.  I can't wait to be on two wheels again!

-James

The Time Has Come --Inspection Time!

16,271. That's the number of miles on my 2008 Kawasaki Versys 650.  The time has finally come for the valve clearance inspection.  Not only that, I think the bike is due for a good once over.  It's safe to assume the previous owner never gave the bike it's first annual inspection.  Based on the condition of the front tire (bald), and the dead spark plugs when I purchased the bike, it's safe to say the previous owner didn't know what he was doing.  However, since I've owned the bike, it's become quite a wonderful ride.  I can't say that I've been looking forward to this occasion, but with the motor starting to tick and it's mileage building up, the bike needs the investment. 

Just seems that expenses outweigh income.  This is no exception.  The tremendous Florida heat has been a mixed blessing. While I can't take the bike out as often as I'd like, it also allowed the bike to stay in the garage, so I wouldn't have to spend the money earlier (which I didn't have).  In the next couple of weeks, I'll make sure the bike gets the attention it requires.  Hoping the weather begins to cool down soon, so that everything will fall into place, and the bike will be ready to ride as Fall hits the area. 

-James

Update On The Triumph Tiger

Hello, riders.

As many of you know, I have a Triumph Tiger 750 that requires love.  I had stated in a previous post, which you can read here, that I don't want this bike to be a lab rat.  I wanted to take it to a technician who knows vintage Triumphs, and who I would feel comfortable with turning wrenches on it. 

Well, my first stop was my local dealership.  I figured if anyone would have knowledge, or even access to a parts guide, it would be them.  I've had multiple conversations with their head mechanic (who also owns a couple vintage Triumphs of his own) over the past few months about my Kawasaki Versys.  When I met up with him regarding the Tiger, he told me that Triumph Motorcycle Company does not work on, or keep tabs on parts, for motorcycles over 10 years old. 

Why? Today's Triumph Motorcycle isn't our dad's Triumph.  Some guy bought the rights to the name, but that's the only thing left in common with the old Triumphs.  It's sad.  He was genuine enough to tell me that even if they could work on it, he would strongly suggest against it because my Tiger 750 is older than all of the technicians who work for him.  He gave me a couple resources that he uses (British Only being his best recommendation), and offered to give me any help I need.  There are plenty of shops around Florida that claim to know vintage motorcycles, but I was warned about them as well (I won't name them here). 

So I thought that was the end of the road as far as technicians go.  If he wouldn't let his own shop turn wrenches on his bikes, then neither will I.

Going through my dads library of guides, manuals, and such, I found 4 amazing books on Triumphs published in the 60's-80's.  Speed tuning, repair, service, and, rebuilding manuals.  I even found the original owners manual for the Tiger.  I was so excited! That's a gold mine.  If I can get the part numbers off of what I need to replace, I know I can handle the rest.  It is going to be a long process, but that will give me plenty of time to educate myself.  I can't start working on it just yet.  I don't have the space.  But I'll be sure to document my work once I start!

-J

How To Keep Your Ride Top Notch: My Products of Choice

Your motorcycle endures extreme environmental conditions throughout its life.  Snow, rain, dust, dirt, mud, salt, bugs...we all want our rides to look great and be protected, but with so many products out there, which do you choose?

 

 

The best product that I have found that cleans the body of your motorcycle is Pro Honda Spray Cleaner & Polish.  

 

 

Pro Honda acts as a cleaner and a protector.  You don't have to use it heavily, either.  Just a quick spritz on your bike and buff it with a clean, soft rag.  It is great for removing bugs, water stains, mud, and anything else your environment can throw at you.  Your ride will have a beautiful shine, and will also be protected from UV rays that can fade your paint over time! It's perfect for daily riders who leave their bikes in parking lots during the day.  You can use it to clean your windscreen and mirrors as well! Works perfectly and doesn't leave streaks.

 

Okay, well what about the rest of your bike? How do you clean your engine, chain guard, rims, frame, forks, (or even the chain itself!)? The best thing is WD-40.  Spray WD on a clean rag and wipe down your surfaces.  Your bike will look showroom quality, and will cost next to nothing! It's great at cutting through built up gunk, especially after a long trip, or if you've been slacking on maintenance.  If you take your front sprocket guard off, you'd be amazed at the amount of road debris, dirt, and grease that accumulates inside that guard.  Spray it with WD-40 and wipe it clean.  Your equipment will thank you for it!

 



 

Cleaning your chain is a great way to extend the life of your chain and sprockets.  I put the bike on a lift, and spray WD on a clean rag.  As I spin the rear tire, I run the chain through the rag and clean the face plates on the chain.  For in depth cleaning (especially around the rear sprocket), I use an old toothbrush and WD.  Constantly lubricating your chain without routinely cleaning it will result in heavy build up around your sprockets and engine.

 

 

For chain lubrication, my dad turned me on to a product called Chain Wax.  It lubricates and protects your chain from rain and dirt, and it also bonds to your chain so it doesn't sling everywhere when you start riding.  It is basically a wax, but it's loose enough to provide good lubrication and freedom of movement in your chain.  If you ride daily, it's good to lubricate your chain at least once a week.  Of course if you hit foul weather, go ahead and re-apply to protect your chain.  If you do that, it's also best to clean your chain once every couple of weeks.  I see motorcycles every where and they have dry, rusty chains and sprockets.  It blows my mind that people don't think to do BASIC maintenance.  Didn't we all lube our bicycle chains as kids?  It's the same principle, except your motorcycle chain is everything to your machine.  Don't be stupid, people.  Lubricate your chain, it's incredibly dangerous not to.

 

You can find Pro Honda at any motorcycle shop, WD-40 pretty much anywhere, but Chain Wax I'm starting to have difficulty tracking down.  You can order it online through Amazon, or if you find a local store that carries it, go ahead and stock up.  I did, so hopefully I won't have to worry about it for a while. 

 

Thanks for taking the time to read this, and if you liked it or have your own tips & tricks that you'd like to share, leave a comment and let me know!

 

-J

...In Love & Wheels

I want to take a few minutes to reflect on what having a good woman and a good motorcycle means to me.

Happiness and comfort are two words that can't even describe how great it feels to have the best of both worlds.  I'm not incredibly religious, but even I can recognize that I've been blessed.  I've been married to my wife for 5 years, married to Caprica for 1.  Before Caprica, I had my DRZ.  I've had 2 great motorcycles, and it's only fair to assume the Triumph is going to be a great bike as well. 

I have a wife that loves to ride with me, and honestly, you can't beat that. To know that you can hit the open road on a reliable motorcycle any time you want, and know that your woman wants to ride with you, it is a wonderful feeling.  I treasure the moments we spend together on a bike.  It's something I've always wanted, and I'm glad I can have it.  Every rider needs a partner, someone to share experiences with, and who can just enjoy the road.  When I feel her give me a squeeze as we're riding, it makes me so happy.  I love my wife more than words can say.  I hope she rides with me for as long as possible.

-J

Cedar Key For My Birthday

For my birthday in April, my wife surprised me by suggesting we take the bike over to Cedar Key for a birthday lunch and a nice ride.  It was the first time the Versys had ever been to the coast, and also the first time my wife has ridden with me for a long period of time.  We had a great time! (though we both agree that the Versys is NOT a bike that's comfortably built for two, haha!)  It was a little warm outside, but we survived.  The last time I went to Cedar Key, I took my DRZ-400, which you can read about here.

We had lunch at the Pickled Pelican Restaurant, as I wanted my wife to try one of my favorite spots.  We stayed until the early afternoon and then headed back to Gainesville.  It was a really nice day, and we definitely enjoyed ourselves.

My next trip to Cedar Key, I hope to take my dad's Triumph, and I would like to spread some of his ashes, as I have fond memories of family trips there.  We loved Cedar Key, and I know he wouldn't mind being spread there.  I think of you always, dad. I love you.

-J

That's One Classy Lady

My dad owned a 1976 Triumph Tiger 750 that he had been fixing up for me.  Mechanically the bike is sound (only 11,735 miles!), but it needs new brakes, tires, cables, and new wiring couldn't hurt.  The previous owner added a secondary headlight and a tail light extension....just a bunch of crap.  But my plan is to remove all of the excess and get back to classic, vintage Triumph.  A few places need to be re-chromed, but the paint is in beautiful shape.
 

 

 

Since his passing, the bike has become mine.  I honestly can't wait to get started.  With vintage Triumph's, I'm not about to start turning wrenches on it.  It doesn't need engine work, but I'll let the professionals handle replacing parts.  My dad never liked taking his bikes in, he was able to fix everything.  My dad was a grease monkey who had the skill to fix anything.  But I do not posess the knowledge this bike deserves yet.  I'd much rather have a technician do it.  I plan on learning, but I do not want this Triumph to be the lab rat. 

The motorcycle is a classic kick-start, and I'm most certainly going to keep that, but unfortunately, my knees cannot handle too much kicking. I'm going to look into an electric ignition, so the bike will more or less be a single kick start.  Go ahead, give me a hard time about it, but it's my knees that are taking the beating, not yours haha.
 

 

Keep your eyes open for more updates coming soon! In the meantime, I'm posting a link to a short YouTube video on my channel for those who want to hear what this Triumph sounds like.  The shifter is a bit sticky, so it needs some TLC, and the video shows me trying to get the bike in neutral.  She sounds sweet. 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SIfTtOTSDF0&list=UUGjRWJNn0sbINLx8lM0TKCg

-J

Custom Versys?

Over the past few months, I have been playing around with my Versys' bodywork.  I had removed the windscreen in an attempt to clean up the lines.  I really liked it, but the red cowlings stopped where the windscreen sits, and it was obvious that something was missing from the bike.  I debated going to a fabrication shop to get a piece made that will fill that gap, but nothing really came of it.  I'm still undecided.

Along with the windscreen, I also considered smaller mirrors, I'm still looking for a nice pair, but most of them have really distasteful designs, or are too small to be useful.  I'm still in the market for a rear fender eliminator.  I know which one I need, but it's not a priority purchase right now.  It's a luxury that one day I will indulge myself in. 

The Versys also has mounts for a rear storage box.  Normally, there are small handles that mount to the bike whenever you don't have the box installed.  My dad tried to convince me last year that the rear looks better without the box or handles.  I didn't agree, but I decided to give it a try, and he was right afterall. Dad is always right! haha.

For now, I'll keep the windscreen on the bike.  I didn't notice a difference a difference in milage, but it does help to have the windscreen during the summer months as bugs are ridiculous. Removing the windscreen certainly gives the Versys a more sporty look, and I fee that it also makes the bike seem more "aggressive".  What do you think? 

-J

A Beautiful Weekend

On Saturday, my wife and I spent the day with my mom.  Since my dad passed, it hasn't been easy for her to be alone.  We can't always go out there, but if we can spend a day, we will.  The weather cooperated long enough on Sunday for me to take my wife on a nice little motorcycle ride.  It was terribly hot, but it didn't rain. 

We took a nice ride through Paynes Prarie, Micanopy, and McIntosh, before returning home to Gainesville. There are few really nice County Roads that have nice curves in them.  Really nice farms and farmlands.  Really is a hidden gem.  With the wife on board, I didn't stop to take pictures, but I will return soon and do so.  The bike really needed a good long run.  It has been sitting in the garage for about a month.  It felt good to open the throttle and burn through some gas.

 Also, I apologize for my blog constantly having different layouts.  I can't find one that I like, and it's driving me crazy.  I'll keep working on it!

-J





Rest In Peace, Dad. You Are Why I Ride!

My dad is the reason why I ride motorcycles.  He got me on a bike when I was 10 years old, and introduced me to a wonderful lifestyle that I cherish.  Riding was his passion and I can't thank him enough for sharing that with me. 

My dad was a motorcycle racer.  Competing for years in the Daytona 200 Circuit in the 80's-90's.  To us, he was known as Dad.  On the track, he was known as 56X.  My dad raced Ducati's, BSA's, and Triumphs.  He was a rockstar.  He raced for fun, but would always ride within his skill level.  I always ride with gear, and I never drive beyond my limits.  Experience and time allows our limits to grow, and that's what I rely on.  Simply being on a motorcycle has enough risks, why drive like a fool?

I regret not spending more time with him on the weekends back when I lived at home. But I am thankful for the time and knowledge I gained after I got out of the Navy.  He taught me things about motorcycles and how to take care of basic maintenance.  There's so much more I wanted him to teach me, but I never had the chance.  But I don't sit and dwell on what I missed, I cherish what I had. 

Now, he's on the greatest ride he could ever have.  He was a great man who loved his country, and his countrymen.  Our community lost a great man, but he's still with us.  With every ride I take, I know he's with me.  I feel him.

D.J.M. 1947-2014.  I love you dad!

-J

A Thousand Miles From Nowhere: Republic of Seychelles

The absolute most remote place I have ever visited is the Republic of Seychelles.  Seychelles is located on the East Coast of Africa in the Indian Ocean, 1,000 miles away from the next closest land mass.  A true gem in the Indian Ocean, and a "off the beaten path" tourism location for Europe, Africa, and Asia.

 

The best way I can describe Seychelles is to compare it to Hawaii (think Jurassic Park).  Large mountains and valleys enveloped in low hanging fog and mist. I had never heard of this nation until I set foot there.  The economy is largely based on tourism and fishing. The food had a very American and French influence, which allowed for a nice taste of home, but still maintained the exotic feel of a far away place.  My visit kept me in the capital island of Victoria for 4 days, and this allowed me to get a glimpse of what the future holds for Seychelles and what they strive for.  

The center of town had a really cool 4-way intersection with a clock in the middle.  Plenty of open air markets, store fronts, restaurants, and places of worship.

The main attraction for visitors to Victoria Island is the Berjaya Resort.  A very beautiful resort that has prime real estate on the coast.  Beautiful beaches, towering mountains, and unbeatable views.  Open bar(s), a pool, live music, all on the beach.  

The Indian Ocean is the warmest ocean I have ever swam in.  When I wasn't in the surf, I was kicking back on a beach chair with a local hand-rolled cigar, just taking in the sights and sounds of the beach.  A wedding took place and I really enjoyed watching that.  That resort beach is a great place to have a wedding.  I wouldn't mind renewing my vows there myself.  

  

 To end my last day on the island, I was blessed to see the most beautiful sunset I have ever seen before.  The clouds cleared out in the late afternoon, giving way to a stunning sunset.  I took about 10 pictures of this sunset, but this one is my favorite.  I would certainly return to Victoria Island, Seychelles.  More specifically, the Berjaya Resort.  It is certainly a costly venture, but one I would highly recommend if given the opportunity.

-J