The New And Improved Unofficial R65 Forum V2
General Category => Chit-Chat => Topic started by: suecanada on May 29, 2008, 10:21:52 AM
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Hi, Rob and Aïda, John and NC Steve.....I do plan to try to attend the Gathering. Three of us will be riding down from Hillsboro, NH where I am going to Micatech sidecase factory and lending them my new twin F650GS (800cc) so they can figure out how to make bags for it before the competition does and before the new 800 and 650 GS arrive in the USA in say best guess Sept or July respectively. My riding buddy David is riding the 1000 in 24 hours Minuteman rally out of Northampton Mass. and we meet him in Hillsboro after that. Then we ride a day with nhmaf!!!! And eat real southern BBQ!
Anyway, after Micatech is done and we wave sadly to nhmaf, we head towards the Blue Ridge which is really pretty far away and try to divide up the Wed, Thurs and Friday riding towards Ferguson NC. It never seems that Willville camp is in the right place for a night's stopover so one day I will have to make a point of stopping there!
So with 3 of us (all on non-airheads!) there will be a consensus taken as we approach Ferguson to make sure that is what we all want to do.....we will most likely be late Friday afternoon arriving. Are you guys sure we don't have to like "phone ahead"????
I will have my new T-shirt and R65 hat too! I can see a great picture in the offing! Would be super to see you too Aïda if you can see yourself clear to coming to the Gathering instead of the other. This year I may not make it to Cary NC to visit my friend.
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I've yet to find a kitty-sitter, but I am making plans. I have a motel room reserved in Johnson City, TN for Thursday night. I have a good friend there, and we will hang out that evening, and I will have a leisurely 3 hour ride to the camp site on Friday. I plan to leave early Sunday morning so I can take back roads to Lexington, KY, I hope.
Google Map of my route (http://maps.google.com/maps?f=d&hl=en&geocode=10735065406500733437,39.056330,-84.632150%3B17017865193116682531,37.996140,-84.397390%3B13350773444229205578,37.687660,-84.797780%3B5169837627333550999,36.597920,-83.676160%3B525145635220151066,36.464720,-82.925350&saddr=8241+E+50th+St,+Indianapolis,+IN+46226&daddr=I-275+E+%4039.056330,+-84.632150+to:I-75+S+%4037.996140,+-84.397390+to:37.68382,-84.309082+to:US-25E+S+%4036.597920,+-83.676160+to:Lee+Hwy%2FUS-11W+N+%4036.464720,+-82.925350+to:red+roof+inn,+johnson+city,+tn,+usa+to:765+Stony+Fork+Rd,+Ferguson,+NC+28624+(High+Country+Motorcycle+Camp)&mra=dme&mrcr=0&mrsp=3&sz=7&via=1,2,3,4,5&sll=37.987504,-83.704834&sspn=5.877984,10.283203&ie=UTF8&ll=38.410558,-83.759766&spn=5.843987,10.283203&z=7).
From the High Country M/C Camp website (http://www.highcountrymotorcyclecamp.com/):
16th "GATHERING OF THE CLANS" June 13-15
It is once again time for the clans of the motorcycle kingdom to converge at High Country Motorcycle Campground for a weekend of festivity, frivolity, and fantastic roads. Download Map from this [above] website or locate on Rand McNally and follow directions from the website. Please note that just before the last turn is Michelle's Market BP Station--the last place to buy gas, ice, and beverages. $35 per adult; kids are charged according to temperament and size. Friday and Saturday evening meals are provided. Door prizes, probable entertainment, tech sessions, and roads for any style of riding. Please check your tires before you leave home.
INFO: Charlie Smith bmwcharlie@embarqmail.com (use Gathering on subject line) 25485 Keller Rd. Abingdon, VA 24211 or Call Brent at 336-973-3911
And from the BMWMOA (http://www.bmwmoa.org/happenings/whereandwhen.htm):
NC June 13 - 14, 2008
16th Gathering of the Clans
Airheads Beemer Club #214
It is once again time for the clans of the motorcycle kingdom to converge at High Country Motorcycle Camp for a weekend of festivity, frivolity and fantastic roads. Getting there is part of the adventure. Those who are computer savvy may look up highcountrymotorcylecamp.com, or go to bmwairheads.org for maps and other information. Folks who still like the old ways can find Ferguson, NC in their Rand McNally to get an idea of where they are headed. The first turn to the rally site is nine miles south of the Blue Ridge Parkway OR seven miles north of North Wilksboro, NC following US 421. The turn will be well marked with BRIGHT BMW roundel signs. All other turns to the campground are similarly marked. Just before the last turn is a country gas station, the last place to buy gas, ice, beverages to melt the ice, and maybe that item you forgot to bring. $35 per adult, kids are charged according to temperament and size. Fri. and Sat. evening meals are provided. Wonderful shady camping along a mountain stream. Door prizes, maybe some entertainment, tech sessions and roads for any style of riding. PLEASE, check your tires before you leave home. Info: Charlie Smith, bmwcharlie@embarqmail.com (use Gathering in the Subject line) 25485 Keller Rd., Abingdon, VA 24211
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I think we've decided to do the Gathering. We were wanting to get back to the basics - including airhead stuff and this one fits the bill. It's not a free rally, but it's much closer and with gas prices the way they are - that makes a difference, even on the bikes! We haven't been to Turkey Toms in a LOOOONG time - Hmmm...can you still call it that? I guess officially it's High Country.
Sue, hope the consensus turns out to be attending the Gathering! I really want to see your new F650GS! We're still hearing that we should see them in July. Of course, we're not getting a low version first... :( I was sold on the F800 before I saw it and now I'm sold on the F650, but I must see it in person!
And Rob - get that Kitty-sitter! We'll be leaving 2 kitties at home. At least they have each other to keep themselves occupied. ;) I'd love to see your new etrex as well.
Can't wait to meet up with everyone! We'll have quite the R65 gathering! ;D
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Yep, I'm still planning to go too, although I won't be a part of "quite the R65 gathering!" since I sold Ol' Blue earlier this week.
But, actually, a Guzzi's an airhead too, so I should be okay, right? :-?
And Sue will be on her F bike, so if we get ostracized by the Hardcore Airheads maybe we can just hang out together... ;)
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I am pretty sure that we WILL be there Friday. It is in our plans to be there anyway barring whatever. Yup, no airheads in our group for the rally. We have a Kawasaki, Oilhead and my new twin F. BTW, Aida I ordered the 790 mm lower seat. That does OK for me with my built-up boots on and heel lifts. The 764?mm lowering kit is the way to go for you and get someone to redo the centrestand...BMW won't even provide one for the lowered frame version....stinky eh? And there you are needing to lube that chain! The 71 hp is plenty! The hand lever adjustments could adjust more for my small hands. Bike suspension designed for that svelte german lady at 85 kg!! :o That's 187 lbs.!! Just a tad heavier than you and I eh??? ;D
Also, I just came back from my 1000 first service. I didn't want to muck with the bike but the chain came too tight from factory. Things to watch for. No one's perfect. It's a great bike for sure. Not sure it is 7 times better than LRB though for the money. Can't really work on it so it's liable to cost a fortune at 96.00/hr. labour charges. Canbus electrical system.
This is going to be sooooo good with all of us together!!! Yeah, Rob...and I don't look any younger!
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Yeah, Rob...and I don't look any younger!
Geeze...I'll NEVER live that one down, will I??? :-[
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I don't know Sue, how young do you have to look if you're still out doing stuff? ;D
Young is as it does.
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OOOgh. I'm flying till late on Friday but open on the weekend. Perhaps I'll make this one. Who has got the Flag? Is it time to exchange cell phone numbers? (404-791-0704) PaLeazze camp together so I can find youse guys! 8-)
Whowee its going to be a 5 hour slab ride to HCCG early Saturday AM...Place was tough to google but I think I think I got it.
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Question: it sounds like this Charlie Smith dude can be called or emailed for info only.
The $35 per adult, though, is that money to be prepaid somehow, or just pay at the gate?
Don't want to ass-u-me the wrong thing and get stuck somewhere... :-[
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Don't even think about it Rob..it was wrong of me to embarrass you even in jest. Sorry buddy!
Not a word about any prepaid or registration that I can find so we're just showing up with the $35.00 in hand. Boy, don't forget your forum shirts and hats...looks like we will need them!! :)
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OK I'll e-mail the guy. Perhaps I get a discount showing up on Saturday (perhaps not...)
E-mail is away....Standing by>>>>>>
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Yeah guys, this is not an easy place to find if you've never been there...not exactly on the well traveled road, really off the beaten path. It says there will be BMW signs up to lead you in - just pay attention and look for them, you'll probably need then to find your way. Last time I was there it was at the end of a long dirt road. I think the road has been paved since then, but not sure about that.
Hey, maybe I'll have time to work up a flag - Justin, do you have files with the R65.org logo? If so I'd like to get them and then I can work up a small flag. I don't have a Tshirt or cap to wear :( But I do have a patch to put on my jacket! I'll be on my R65 and I'll be looking for others. I wouldn't necessarily count on cell phones working there, either...
I think we'll be there on Friday, haven't finalized our travel plans just yet. We usually just show up at rallies and 'pay at the door' so to speak.
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OK here is his reply:
>Bill,
>The $35 is the fee, includes camping, your evening meal, and as a bonus you are welcome at >happy hour (aka Barley Therapy) gratis. Scoot on up from Atlanta, be glad to see you there.
>Ride SAFE,
>Charlie
Sounds like $35 at the door, come as you are!! :D I'm pretty confident about my GPS routing above. It's about the right distance in on the right roads. Like they say there will be signs... Whooyeah after 5+ hours on the road I will be ready for some Barley Therapy [smiley=beer.gif]
TTFN,
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Thanks for getting that clarified, Bill, and look forward to meeting you in a couple of weeks.
I live only about 60 miles from this place and, as I've said before, if anyone traveling distances needs a place to lay over on the way in, just holler. I'm hoping to work 1/2 day on Friday, then ride on up that afternoon, and company on the trip is most welcome. 8-)
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Hope to see you up there Friday afternoon, If I don't get too lost.... :-/
Ed
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So that is 6 from our website! Sounds great!
I just pulled the back off of my Kermit Chair as I am going to take it to a embroidery shop to have my name and one of our R65.org patches sewn onto it.
At least you will know I am there if I am not sitting down! ;)
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OK, I've got the plans for a small (t-shirt size?) flag with a look similar to:
(https://bmwr65.org/smf/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fsuraklyn.com%2Fyabb%2FAttachments%2Fr65_complex.gif&hash=81fe298601a8264b4981f3fca396f280220c32e8)
Hopefully there will be a place to hang it - or I'll drape it over my windshield.
And I count 7 - now 8 ! Including Gus...
Rob, NCSteve, John, Sue, Bill, Ed and myself. Haven't heard from SCJohn in this thread, but I thought he was planning on this one. Not sure how many R65s will be there, but I'll be on mine!
[smiley=2vrolijk_08.gif] [size=16]THIS SHOULD BE FUN!!![/size] (https://bmwr65.org/smf/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi129.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fp210%2Fcabcgec%2F36_1_331.gif&hash=357293573cb9ea0c9683ccf4480881ed6f0d02a8)
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Aida, it's sounding like J Hirst, my new friend that bought Blue, is heading down too, although I'm not sure now about SC John. He's trying to claim some sort of "I got to work" BS, but I'm chipping away at him...
Hopefully a few of Jonathan's buds from http://twinvalleyriders.com/ will make it down too; I've met several, and they're a great bunch of guys, with a nice variety of bikes. I'm hearing a few of the ADVriders are planning to come also (hopefully the quiet ones, no offense intended). If you have any inside knowledge of good camping areas within the grounds, please keep us all updated, okay, so's we can all hook up?
Looks like it's shaping up to be quite the shindig... 8-)
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Cat-sitter taken care of.
;)
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Woo Hoo! Sounds like a fun weekend coming up.........at least for you East Coast riders.
Aida, that looks like a great flag! 8-) I've got the original logos, so I'm sure I can put them together for a flag for us West Coast riders!
When you get done make sure to post a picture or send me a picture and I'll make one like it. Hmmm, might take me awhile though as my upstairs work area is now more out of sorts than usual from the water leak.
Anyhoo, have a great time and I will continue healing..........1 week and 4 days to go for the cast to come off - actually it will come off the Friday you guys are going to the Gathering! Raise a glass of beer for me! I'll riase one to you guys there in celebration! [smiley=beerchug.gif]
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Tires and brake pads on order. This weekend is reserved for canoeing, so if everything comes in I'll drop Blue off for a bit of a spa treatment.
Hope to have her back in time to make the trip. Looking forward to seeing a sea of airheads.
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Yeah, I know it sounds like "BS", but I'm afraid it's true. I misread the schedule when I commented earlier about wanting to ride up the Clans rally, and do have to work that Fri-Sun. These people who run the place where I work don't care about anything except how many kayaks and canoes are built that day, and fire employees who lay out of work. I asked my supervisor about being off for the weekend, and he looked at me and said, "You're kidding, right?" Then he said no, that he's had to turn down requests from employees who had been there a lot longer than me who wanted to take vacation days during June. It seems that June is the peak month of production for the company, and they don't allow vacation days to be taken during than month (except those who work in the office or have non-production jobs). I was told if you are scheduled to work, you have to work whether you like it or not. I've never worked a job before where I had to give up every other weekend to work.
I hate my job. >:(
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Sorry bro, I didn't mean that "BS" comment as a bad thing, only that the event and experience would be much enhanced by your presence... ::) ;)
Besides, pretty much everybody hates their jobs: I think you're supposed to, it's like the American way or something.
I have to remind folks at mine sometimes that they're being paid to do W.O.R.K, and that the other, fun thing is called P.L.A.Y.
They tend to get the two confused occasionally... ::)
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I know, I'm just PO'd at the way things have worked out so far for me. I'd just about give up my first born to be able to be there and see everyone! :-[
But, you never know.... I may have another job by then or win the lottery! (Oh yeah, it seems you have to actually play the lottery in order to win it.) ::)
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I'm sorry to hear you won't be able to make it, John.
I'm sorrier to hear you are working a job with such rigid guidelines. I take it this is an interim job until you find something in your newly completed educated field?
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Are there any days after this rally that you actually legally get off John? Just wondering. I think 2 of us are heading for Kickstand Lodge near Robbinsville after the Gathering.
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the event and experience would be much enhanced by your presence...
Dittos on that one, John! Sure will miss having you there!! We were looking forward to hearing that wonderful laugh of yours again...Bummer about the time off. >:(
Melena, I've sent you a PM about the original files you have. I'll be glad to send you what I've done once I get it done. What I have right now is somewhat different....
(https://bmwr65.org/smf/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi129.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fp210%2Fcabcgec%2FMotorcycles%2FR65org200.jpg&hash=8528cd8b3680b8241b050ca1ef7da952b9507e67)
And we should definitely raise a glass in your honor, it's worth celebrating your 'freedom'! [smiley=beer.gif]
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Aida that looks GREAT!
Hope to see it next week. When do you think you'll be getting in?
Ed [smiley=happy.gif]
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Wowzers ! That DOES look great !
I was thinking of putting in an order for a long sleeve T-shirt, but if someone was motivated and able to get a bunch of these
done up on some plain heavy cloth I'd like to buy one of these flags instead to "REPRESENT" at our new england rallies.
Good job ! I am sure with a flag like that you'll be easy to spot at the Clans', and the other riders at the rally will
think that we are a heck of alot more organized than we really are !!!!
:)
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Good job ! I am sure with a flag like that you'll be easy to spot at the Clans', and the other riders at the rally will
think that we are a heck of alot more organized than we really are !!!!
:)
Hey! I resemble that! ;)
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Yes, I must give credit to Melena and Justin. The original files came from Melena for the patches. Justin took her files and using Photoshop created the first "logo" I posted. The files he sent me were too small to enlarge enough for the flag, so I took his design and went out to the internet and found some larger resolution bits, combined them with some of the files he sent and viola! the new flag.
Couldn't have done it without them. [smiley=thumbsup.gif]
I'm using an iron on transfer to get this flag done - so it will be small. I did some a couple of years ago and so far they are holding up well. I'll have to check around and see if I can find a source for getting these made up a bit larger and more durable.
ED - we plan on leaving bright and early Friday morning, so we hope to arrive early to mid afternoon on Friday. Would like to find some shady spots if possible. If I remember correctly, the only shade is down along the creek or maybe up the hill. Not sure how much the place has changed since I was there last.
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Great Aida. We'll try to pitch our tents in the same general area. I'll probably get there in the 3 - 5PM time frame. Leaving Atlanta around 9AM. Haven't found anyone leaving here at that time frame, so will have to find it myself. Was hoping to follow someone with GPS.
Took a 4 hour ride today and found out that my odometer has stopped working. (Speedometer still indicates, but 10-20MPH high) Going to have to set up fuel stops in advance instead of watching my mileage. Longest trip so far for me. Does everyone's butt usually go numb after a couple of hours?? :o
In case we have cell reception, my number is 770 826 2534
Best,
Ed
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Ed, I just put your number in my cell phone.
I prefixed it with a @, so I can group all of the folks at the rally in one place in my directory.
My number is 317 372 6890
I have what I THINK to be the co-ordinates of the campground in my GPS...
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Ok, we have plans and a flag and boy am I ready! Tomorrow am at 10:.. I leave for NH and a visit with nhmaf!! We hope to get to the Gathering Friday sometime...at least early enough to set up the tents!! I will search for our flag..near the creek or maybe up a hill...we'll find ya someway or other. Look for a very red BMW motorcycle loaded with a big orange drybag..I know..not very coordinated...with a black R1100Rt and Blue Kawasaki in tow. I am hoping my butt lasts longer on this newer bike than the other F650GS! I was really in some pain and no amount of sheepie or buttbuffer seemed to help after 4 hours. I could feel things even after 2 hours. So far things are better...I need all the leg length I can get so no sheepie or buffer would be good.
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Looks like the weather will be good for the gathering, clear sunny and temps in the upper 90's F.
Take plenty of sunscreen, and drink plenty of fluids, (you can have some beers too!!).
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Google Map (http://maps.google.com/maps?f=q&hl=en&geocode=&q=+N+36%C2%B0+09.233++W+81%C2%B0+27.221&ie=UTF8&ll=36.153883,-81.453683&spn=0.023528,0.037594&t=p&z=15) according to the co-ordinates listed on the Map to High Country MC Camp.
I'm bettin' no cell coverage...
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Charlie, at the camp, says cell reception is "spotty".....
Not encouraging.
:-/
Went by the HD dealer yesterday on my 4 hour ride and test rode a Buell.
The "Camelback" type hydration pack they give out is neat! I'll be wearing it on the trip. If you get the chance, it's worth it to play on someone else's 21st century bike & compare it to our rides. After wringing out two of their models, I really prefer mine. The hydration pack was a nice bonus. I'd gotten somewhat dehydrated in the 90 + degree (F) trip up to the mountains listening to my "Oldies" & enjoying the scenery.
My fault, of course. But I was having too good a time on my first decent sized ride since I got back on two wheels.
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Hey Ed, I was tempted by the Buell promotion, was was expecting the hard sell. Was the required test ride laid back?
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If this heat wave keeps up, I may resort to using my camelback on this trip, again.
I used it in my aborted attempt last year, and all I know is it made me stop to pee too much!
And now that I am wearing proper protective pants, that becomes a hassle when rushed.
I have considered a "Stadium Buddy" as sold at medical supply stores. ::)
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Aida - Love the flag. Ok up the hill by the creek - somebody save me a spot for the tent.
Ed - Sorry I can't ride up on Friday. If this changes I will call you.
My cell 404-791-0704.
Heat - Wear a pool sun shirt (spandex) under your mesh gear. When you sweat it will evaporate better and keep you cool. Stay away from too much salt/sugar in your drink. Believe it or not plain old water is best (all though I usually fall for Gatoraid Rain at the gas stations.) I usually munch on apples on the road. 8-)
Depending on when I get away I should be up by noon on Saturday. I'll bring some scotch and maybe a cigar or two.
TTFN,
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There was no real "Hard Sell", Jonathan. Although the salesman tried to "arrange financing" when I told him that his bikes were interesting, but I think I'll stick to my "Old Technology" for a while longer.
::)
Bill, If you'd like to lighten your gear load I'm bringing a new Sierra Designs Sirius 3 person tent which will more than handle my few items. It's gray, with a medium blue & gray Fly Sheet cover.
For identification, remember that I've added the Rifle fairing since you last saw the bike.
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Ed (and others), what are they adding that our old bikes don't have? I expect acceleration that will make me poop myself, brakes that will make me slip off of it, and suspension so good I can ride over miles of rails the wrong way and it will feel like the interstate. But I really have no idea what "they" are doing.
My brother stopped by my work place yesterday and showed off his brand new Kawasaki Nomad...? I remember he said it had a 1600cc motor, but he didn't know hp or zero to 60, which are both as interesting to me. Ah, I found his first oil leak, something coming from the drive shaft area as best I could see. No, I was not playing one of those cruel tricks that some people play on others with new bikes. At least the oil was pretty clean.
Sigh. Time to go wet sand some paint repairs I made on the Triumph, gotta get ready to start riding it for the summer! If summer ever arrives, that is. Rain, rain, rain. La Nina.
Have fun at the gathering, sorry I'll miss you.
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So Aida, you are fer sher gonna have the flag flyin' then, by mid-afternoon Friday?
I've got to work a half-day in Greensboro, but if I gas up & load up the night before, and blast home at 80, I hope to be on the road by 2-ish. Only about an hour away, so hopefully I can get up to High Country by 3:30 or so? Got to allow a stop for munchies & refreshing beverages before getting into the campground proper. ;)
I gave Jonathan my brand new blue hat to match his brand new Blue, but still have my 1st Edition R65 shirt, so I should be good to go.
Looking forward to this one, bigtime... 8-)
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Is this the area you guys are talking about?
(https://bmwr65.org/smf/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.highcountrymotorcyclecamp.com%2FAssets%2Fhcmcsites5t.jpg&hash=68df86023eab8456dfe8a83ac57ba95f85d681d4)
BTW, I have removed all of my Ron Paul paint from my motorcycle ... :(
Just look for the leg shields.
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PS: your concerns over cellphone service are probably valid, at least within the campground itself. Generally, Verizon seems to do passibly well in these mountains, while AT&T, Sprint, etc. are pretty much dead. However, once you get to a slightly higher elevation, or to the nearest town, you can get service again. Usually. Kinda sorta. Wilkesboro isn't but maybe 7-8 miles away, and we'll be down there buying supplies and such anyway.
I've taken to traveling with a grocery/drugstore prepaid calling card, so I can at least use a pay phone to call the loved ones and let them know I've arrived okay. $5-10 can buy a lot piece of mind on the road sometime...
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<Phew> 97'f this afternoon here in Atlanta. Next weekend starting to come into view and the temps are mercifully lower. We roll the dice on another weekend and press on regardless.
TTFN,
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I heard from Sue a few hours ago - they've made it to NH now.
I'm planning to meet up with them for the day tomorrow and deliver
Sue her R65 shirt. Just found out that the really great BBQ place
(run by the same elderly southern gentleman for the past 40 years)
that we were planning to go to is closed on Monday/Tuesday :-(
So, she won't get any good southern style BBQ until she gets down
Carolina-way later this week. Gotta come up with a "Plan B", now !
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I'm stocking up on Under-Armour shorts to wear under my riding pants. I even bought a pair of long-legged ones to wear when it's not hot-as-blazes out!
I had one pair on my trip to Oklahoma last month. I am sold!
No more wearing jeans on the road. The difference in comfort is amazing.
Same goes for socks. I have begun spending big bucks for on-the-road comfort.
(https://bmwr65.org/smf/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.aerostich.com%2Ffiles%2Fimages%2F1410_1411_1412_1asmall.jpg&hash=87a966d7cf0e4785ada1d4ca32e9a6032dd5f16f) (http://www.aerostich.com/catalog/US/Ultimax-Socks-p-16742.html)
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Yup, for long rides, it is always the seams in jeans that end up being the most painful, I think.
I am a big fan of polypropylene for hiking, biking, and bicycling comfort and dryness.
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Bill, If you'd like to lighten your gear load I'm bringing a new Sierra Designs Sirius 3 person tent which will more than handle my few items. It's gray, with a medium blue & gray Fly Sheet cover.
For identification, remember that I've added the Rifle fairing since you last saw the bike.
Thanks Ed. I will keep an eye out for you.
Prepping bike now fot the trip. I am moving out of the dark ages on this trip as I have a new to me Garmin 276C installed. Auto routing is cool. When I get home Friday night I will check the tire pressures and go to sleep for the early morning departure.
I will probably have my Red mesh jacket on and Silver mesh pants. Y'all drive careful OK? 8-)
TTFN,
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I will try to make a call to one of you guys cell phones Friday evening, if I can get a signal here at home on my cell phone ( ::) ). Don't know if I'll get through, but I'll leave a message with someone! [smiley=smiley.gif]
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Cool! A Virtual Visit to the Gathering! 8-) That'll make nine of us there... ;D
I'm taking tomorrow off to get all packed up and ready to ride. Need to hem up the flag, pack the camping gear...
Rob, that is the place I'm talking about - looks good from that view! Just hope we get there soon enough to lay claim to some shade. Last I checked the weather forecast is getting better, temperature wise anyway, with the highs in the upper 80s instead of the 90s.
We hope to be there around noontime - if all goes well. Can't wait!!
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Planning to be at the Gathering by 4-ish Friday afternoon. Aida, save me a spot, ok? ;)
My cell # is (336) 847-2606. Anybody else want to post theirs so we can link up and find each other, assuming we get service, or in case there's trouble anywhere?
Looking forward to this. See y'all tomorrow... 8-)
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Hmmm ... thought I replied earlier. Cell is 540.537.9154. Will pack up tonight and head out fairly early, taking a leisurely pace. Should be there by 12:00 or so.
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Good deal, Jonathan, thanks. BTW, I just found a fine "R65 accessory" I'm sure you'll use, and will bring it with me tomorrow.
Sounds like you may get there 1st: if so, try to head for the shade in the lower campground, and keep your eyes peeled for Aida & Graham. They'll be on 2 black Airheads, probably both wearing yellow helmets. She's got the flag, which will hopefully help us later arrivers find everyone okay.
You guys, stake us out a spot big enough for 6-7 tents, alright?
Fight back the hordes if necessary, and tell them reinforcements are on the way! ;)
See you there...
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Shade, Lower Campground! Great!
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OK, we've got the bikes all packed up and ready to go first thing in the morning. Just have to get dressed, strap on the cooler and we're off! I'll give you my cell #, but I'll be surprized if they work there - I also have a tendency not to turn mine on so....
919-274-8448. We're going to try to leave by 7:00am and since we're doing the backroads there we have almost a 5 hour ride ahead of us. Want to take our time and enjoy the ride as well. So if all goes well we should hit the campground around noon or 1:00pm.
We'll head for the shade and fly the flag. Jonathan, I'll keep a lookout for that familiar blue bike when we get there.
Yeehaw! It's almost time to ride!!! ;D (https://bmwr65.org/smf/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi129.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fp210%2Fcabcgec%2F36_1_331.gif&hash=357293573cb9ea0c9683ccf4480881ed6f0d02a8) (https://bmwr65.org/smf/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi129.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fp210%2Fcabcgec%2Fmotorcyclesmiley.gif&hash=ad3001cf12f2697e88dbcff1fb55c7833cb590e9)
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all of you who are going to the Gathering must be there by now. I tried to call various people on their cell phnes. Unfortunately I didn't get any of them. Must be as they say that there is no service there. Pooey! :(
But, I did leave messages! 8-) So, now those people at least will know my voice now! It was fun leaving messages.
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Yeah, you guys have a great time..... Don't worry about me, I'm fine.... No, really, I'm good.... Yeah... good... :'( (sigh...)
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I am sure that they are having fun, but, there are some of us still hanging around the clubhouse.. :)
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The readyness is all.
Away! 8-)
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Back home safe and sound. Hope all of you are too. Found some back roads with great pavement, twisties, and no other vehicles, so enjoyed my trek back to the Blue Ridge Parkway.
On a somber note, there was a motorcycle fatality on the Parkway today, about 15 minutes before I got there. A BMW rider and his wife, on a Honda, were attempting CPR when I arrived and continued for ten minutes or more until EMTs arrived, but to no avail. It was a single bike wreck; appears he ran out of road on a curve and lost control, hitting a stone abuttment. Lets keep his family in our thoughts.
Ride safe, and we'll see one another for many years to come.
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Wow Jonathan, really hate to hear about the accident you came upon on your way home.
Something like that will definitely wake you up and get a person to thinking.
On a happier note, here's just a few pics of some of the R65ers in action, live and in person. ;)
Aida, Graham & Rob
(https://bmwr65.org/smf/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi146.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fr261%2Fsteve2371%2FGOC%25202008%2FP6130023.jpg&hash=dfc3dcc6b7687cfbb7db1dc0915411d8cc47c887)
Rob
(https://bmwr65.org/smf/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi146.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fr261%2Fsteve2371%2FGOC%25202008%2FP6130028.jpg&hash=a8e823295299026cbba4d9ecd39d1a8edbdd4412)
The infamous Sue, direct from Canada
(https://bmwr65.org/smf/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi146.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fr261%2Fsteve2371%2FGOC%25202008%2FP6130024.jpg&hash=2a4e8d9aa9f7c5ae218cc7a3501f7092105aa3ca)
Rob, Jonathan (who was riding a gorgeous blue '84 R65), and (Not-So-Fast) Ed, who jockeyed a very nice silver '87 mono from Atlanta
(https://bmwr65.org/smf/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi146.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fr261%2Fsteve2371%2FGOC%25202008%2FP6130025.jpg&hash=09fdd3ac6ab40821b6957fde59fcb61143e8f0dc)
And Aida, with the O-fficial R65 flag
(https://bmwr65.org/smf/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi146.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fr261%2Fsteve2371%2FGOC%25202008%2FP6140037.jpg&hash=8e3f0dcbf136ecb100ad777da5dbd1730b686edf)
By all accounts, a great time was had by all! [smiley=thumbsup.gif]
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I am home, just 11 hours after leaving. :P
I will write more later. We have a mean-butt storm happening. I am shutting this down!
Bye! :)
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Home again, courtesy of Semper Gumby and new member Mike from Stockbridge, Ga. We had a ball on the "Blue Ridge" and a few other twisties that Gumby picked out. I haven't had this much fun (with my pants on) in years. "Film at eleven"....
Just missed going to lunch with Sue in Ashville, but she had places to go.
Ed [smiley=thumbsup.gif]
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OK OK I managed to delete my post so I will try again.... :o
Had a GREAT time at the Gathering of the clans even though I showed late. Met Aïda
and her smile and Graham, Rob Valdez, Not so fast ED Bellair (Not true - his Mono has reached the far side of eighty) (OH and thank you for the tent space!), NC Steve, Sue Canada (at long last we meet!) and her friend Stu Canada, New members Jonathan and Mike Davis who we adopted when he showed up on an R65 (poor fool). I'm missing somebody please forgive me. There was beer, cigars, rain, scotch, lies, door prizes, the signing of THE FLAG, voice mails from Melena! glorious sunshine. Did I mention the sun came out this morning. Ed Bellair, Mike Davis and I blitzed the Blue Ridge (at 45 mph) this morning in GLORIOUS sunshine with a few clouds on the mountain tops. We made it to the top of Mount Mitchell before barracaids prevented futher glory. Thus repulsed, we backtracked to route 80 and wound our way south to I-40 before rejoining the wonderful Blue Ridge for a short time. Then south on I-26 out of Ashville. Somewhere in here we ran into Sue Canada for about 5 minutes but our choice of lunch PUT HER OFF and she continued her quest to head west without us. Un fortunately the heat and the fatigue forced us off the road for food and refreshements. After lunch we rejoined I-85 to Atlanta for a spirited 3 man group ride - cages and trucks all around. I hope the other two gentilmen took notes on how to run a group ride as there will possible be a test in the future.
Dare I say - a good time was had by all - worth every minute of the 650 miles put on the R65 in the last two days.
Did I mention we had a glorious time on the Blue Ridge? :D
Call Melena at 707-837-1720 and answer the voice mails - she missed us and we miss her.
Pics to follow....
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Yep, we made it home safe and sound as well. We were almost the last to leave the campground, just left Steve taking down his tent. It was a wonderful Gathering with great weather - even with the thunderstorm on Saturday afternoon/evening, great food, great riding and above all great friendship! It was amazing to have that many R65ers there. We recruited at least one new member (we hope) Mike from Ga and we ran into JustGus from SC on his bronco brown R65. So there were NINE! of us there. WOW! We had Ed, Aida, Jonathan, Rob, Sue, Steve, Bill, Gus & Mike.
No cell phone coverage - as Melena discoverd. Although Ed went out Friday evening to call home and got her message. So he passed on her, "HI!"s to everyone. 8-)
It was so great to finally connect real people to the names here on the board. I have a few pictures, but they are on my cell phone and now I have to figure out how to get them off. Thanks for your pictures Steve, they're great! ;D
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Ok here are some pics...
Registation Picture ... we were there ... really!
(https://bmwr65.org/smf/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi201.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Faa12%2FSemper_Gumby%2F20080614R65orginfrontofregistration.jpg&hash=7be36a9e9c693dd2f8f533697692a017fb23ef67)
At dinner mit flag...
(https://bmwr65.org/smf/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi201.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Faa12%2FSemper_Gumby%2F20080614R65TableatDinnermitFlag.jpg&hash=0a2cc946010dfa63f54b3289f0713eabc90a95f8)
Not so fast Ed packing to go Sunday AM..
(https://bmwr65.org/smf/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi201.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Faa12%2FSemper_Gumby%2F20080615EdBallairpackingthetentbyth.jpg&hash=fd9ab72d105e55eca7ff71a30b3b0ef7b81ad445)
Jonathan packing to go Sunday AM...
(https://bmwr65.org/smf/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi201.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Faa12%2FSemper_Gumby%2F20080615Johnathonpackingthetentup.jpg&hash=dcf9b0f98caaf1d6d45b3c7aa8693dccd37cbf47)
Sunday morning Coffee - Sue, Aïda and Graham...
(https://bmwr65.org/smf/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi201.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Faa12%2FSemper_Gumby%2F20080615Sundaymorningcoffee.jpg&hash=938f7443c0119f79d3496746628b36a988b5deab)
Sue Canada's F650 (of course its red!)...
(https://bmwr65.org/smf/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi201.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Faa12%2FSemper_Gumby%2F20080615SueCanadasF650andEdBellairp.jpg&hash=bc039e089247da966deb407750499b6a77f61d67)
Stu Canada packing the KAWASAKI!!!!!
(https://bmwr65.org/smf/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi201.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Faa12%2FSemper_Gumby%2F20080615StuCanadaPackingtheKAWASAKI.jpg&hash=039eceb796fc93288e4f8ace2770767502f4fe87)
Semper Gumby and Not-So-Fast-Ed up on the Glorious Blue Ridge...
(https://bmwr65.org/smf/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi201.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Faa12%2FSemper_Gumby%2F20080615SemperGumbyandNot-so-fastEd.jpg&hash=ef23bbae159060be2dd1631a46b15b2fbf6ba67b)
Look who we found - Adopted R65.org member Mike Davis on the Blue Ridge with Ed Bellair...
(https://bmwr65.org/smf/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi201.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Faa12%2FSemper_Gumby%2F20080615NotSofastEDandAdoptedmember.jpg&hash=a204e67e4c4bdc7ceb1c60a48b5270dddca32060)
Gumbymobile Victorious atop Mount Mitchell...
(https://bmwr65.org/smf/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi201.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Faa12%2FSemper_Gumby%2F20080615GumbyMobilevictoriousoverMo.jpg&hash=9c58c869f366800336d2e2d7a825b16b3d0dcb18)
Three bikes and two riders atop Mount Mitchell NC
(https://bmwr65.org/smf/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi201.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Faa12%2FSemper_Gumby%2F20080615ThreebikeandtworidersatopMo.jpg&hash=2e3ae35e7e2e732b545aba918c288facac4edca6)
A Glorious Day!
(https://bmwr65.org/smf/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi201.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Faa12%2FSemper_Gumby%2F20080615Icantrememberthenameofthemo.jpg&hash=e19660c8cc50143eb2e360533bc6b31771b8d64a)
Thank you one and all those present and absent. ;D
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OK it worked - but - not so well. I'm working on it!!! Really. Must sleep now...zzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz....
(originals posted here - http://s201.photobucket.com/albums/aa12/Semper_Gumby/?start=0&mediafilter=images)
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Nice to see the photos and put some faces to the some names. Sounds like you all had a good time! I'm jealous. I gather "The Gathering" was a motorbike rally of some sort? Aida, have you a picture of your bike? (without a flag in front of it!). I'm going to paint mine black and would like to see a full shot of yours for a comparo. Cheers from raining, cold Auckland, NZ! ;)
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Bill............errrrr, uh.........Semper Gumby! ;) Thank you for the very nice phone call. That made me feel like I was really there. ;D
Great pictures from both Bill and NC Steve. Thanks for getting them up so fast. Now I know what I missed. Well, as you know, I was there in spirit.
I'm glad everyone had a great time and that you are all getting home safely.
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Wow, those are some fine photos! Sounds like you all had a great time. I would've given anything to have been there. With any luck, I won't be tied down to this brutal job this time next year!
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jusgus, Rob Valdez '79 R65, Semper Gumby, msbuck, NC Steve, suecanada, not-so-fast-ed
(https://bmwr65.org/smf/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.pbase.com%2Ftomfarr%2Fimage%2F98749957.jpg&hash=0e6a3257893f7f7704343f2fa6018b5518c672e1) (http://www.pbase.com/tomfarr/gotc2008)
click on this picture for more
Maybe, with all of the different cameras Stu had to take this group picture with,
one will have all of us looking at the camera and smiling! :)
(https://bmwr65.org/smf/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi201.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Faa12%2FSemper_Gumby%2F20080614R65orginfrontofregistration.jpg&hash=7be36a9e9c693dd2f8f533697692a017fb23ef67)
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Nice pictures Rob! [smiley=thumbsup.gif]
You did good getting all the names on there. NC Steve is hiding behind someone though. Maybe I'll see him in one of the other pictures. ;D
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I updated my posting to include both my photo and SG's.
You can average them out! :D
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Wow it sounds (AND LOOKS) like you all had a great time !
Thanks very much for sharing all the photos - it makes us feel almost like we were there !
The flag looks great, too !
[smiley=clap.gif] [smiley=clap.gif]
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Looks like fun! I won't even make it to Chief Joseph this year; maybe Joan will have pictures of that?
What are those saddlebags on the Gumbymobile? I don't recognize them. What a bunch of good pictures; thanks for sharing.
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<snip>What are those saddlebags on the Gumbymobile? I don't recognize them. <snip>
Givi E41's. I have dropped the bike on them twice, tried to blow them up with vacuum bags inside that expanded at 11,212 MSL elevation so I guess they are tough enough. All three bags have the same key lock and all three bags are mounted on a Givi universal plate.
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Nice to see the photos and put some faces to the some names. Sounds like you all had a good time! I'm jealous. I gather "The Gathering" was a motorbike rally of some sort? Aida, have you a picture of your bike? (without a flag in front of it!). I'm going to paint mine black and would like to see a full shot of yours for a comparo. Cheers from raining, cold Auckland, NZ! ;)
diggers,
Yes, this was a motorcycle rally for the old airheads. It was really nice to see so many of the old bikes all gathered together in one place. There was everything from an old R69S to the modern bikes This was an Airhead Club gathering.
Here's a picture of my bike I just took - couldn't find one on my computer, except for my avatar.
(https://bmwr65.org/smf/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi129.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fp210%2Fcabcgec%2FMotorcycles%2FMy%2520R65%2FMVC-429F.jpg&hash=69487f78767e912710719b2cbeb5e510897e46f3)
http://i129.photobucket.com/albums/p210/cabcgec/Motorcycles/My%20R65/MVC-429F.jpg There's a handful more at this link. Nothing close up, just different angles. (Rob, you gotta show me how to make it so you can click on the picture to take you to the link.)
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Thanks for the picture and the link. I hope mine ends up looking like yours!
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Picture of Blue with friends:
(https://bmwr65.org/smf/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Ffilebox.vt.edu%2Fusers%2Fjhirst%2FTVR%2Fblue%2520and%2520friends%2520med.JPG&hash=b7f7b789b40ba61c698c5a0c05b6d3e9ec2168a7)
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Wow, Jonathan, that may be the finest-lookin' R65 I've ever seen! ;)
Didja get your light switch fixed yet??
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Not yet. Won't mess with it til after this weekend's trip, for fear it'll crap out all together.
New part is $90 (for whole cluster) and I found a guy with both left and right clusters for $90. Waiting on reply from Buzzard Brent to see if he's got one available.
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Great picture, J !
Hope you get the switch soon, but do you need both sides? If not you might think about buying just the switch as a new item, rather than a potentially soon to fail used one. I hate having to fix something more than once because my pocket book made me take the cheap way out the first go round.
:-/
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I was waiting for that picture Jonathan! Thanks for posting it. Turned out real nice, especially with the haze/fog in amongst all those 'cows'. Have fun in Blue Grass next weekend. Don't think we're gonna make that trip.
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You read my mind Ed. If I needed to replace both, I might consider used or if they broke because of an accident I might go with the used, but since this appeared to be caused by brittle plastic, I might prefer the peace of mind of a new part (unless the 'new' part is also 24 years old!).
Thanks Aida. That camera is kind of junky, so my pics aren't as good as I'd like, but it uses regular batteries so it's easy to keep in my bag.
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I hope you don't mind, Jonathan, but I borrowed your picture for a Boxerworks post.
A fellow named Dave was talking about meeting you and Ed at the rally.
http://www.boxerworks.com/phorum/read.php?f=1&i=230459&t=230298
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Hey Jon - Nice COW!!!! ;)