Cafe Racing
The urge to build something is upon me. I've never been mechanically inclined, but I've always been fascinated by things like Technic Legos and K'nex, wielding creativity to make something piece by piece. Now I have changed brakes and oil, with help of course. Flat tire? No big deal, actually pleasantly straight forward. Turning a vintage 1972 Honda CB 500 Four into an elegant and sleek Cafe Racer inspired by the simplicity of the 1950s & 60s? That might take some time.
I've ridden motorcycles before. Mainly dirt bikes. A rocket in ND. That was 13 years ago. I've never thought too much about owning a bike. After my car accident the same 13 years ago, I've even thought them to be quite dangerous, thought the people who ride them are on borrowed time. We're required to wear a seat-belt in a car, but I can cruise down the highway on two wheels completely unsecured? Seems logical.
Since Friday I've ridden almost everyday. I feel a rush every time, even though I've yet to break 40 mph. I've dreamed about the bike I want to create. I've envisioned the space in which I will craft this machine. I look at the bike and see what it will become, what I want it to be.
This summer is going to be full of learning, experimenting, and error. The first couple things that I want to get started on are a gas leak, the brakes, and the handle bars. If I can get those things solved or changed by the end of the season I'll have met my goals.