Multiple rides

[dfhudkins]

My motorcycle history begins in 1971 when I was 20. First bike was a 1965 BMW R50, sold in a moment of poverty. Still a bad decision.

Next was a 1975 Yamaha RD350B purchased remaindered in the spring of 1976. Still in the fleet and still running.

Then came a Yamaha XS750 triple, toured from Maine to Labrador. Following marriage, the XS750 was traded for a Yamaha Venture land yacht.

Wife got her motorcycle license. Traded the Venture for a matched pair of brand new 1983 Visions. Toured around Maine together. They were sold off as children arrived. Leaving just the RD350B.

Then about 1990, acquired a 1973 Norton 850 Commando in pieces with extended Forking by Frank front forks and a two to one exhaust with no baffles. Many hours and dollars later, a reliable ride pretty close to stock. Started on third kick after not using since summer of 2019. Covid kept me in Taiwan.

In about 2007, got a 1986 Honda CMX450C because it had a very low seat suitable for daughters with shorter legs than mine. One learned to ride on the RD, the other on the CMX.

In 2012 or so, found a low mileage 1983 Vision near my mom's house in Vermont and bought it immediately. Later rode it from Maine to California going north of Lake Superior. See post somewhere on this site from 2014.

So, current fleet: 1973 Norton 850 Commando Mark IIA, 1975 Yamaha RD350B (original owner), 1983 Yamaha XZ550RK Vision, 1986 Honda CMX450 Rebel.