Subject: Looping in the city
Author: David Washburn
Date: Dec 20, 2001, 5:04 PM
Post ID: 1709205594
My first motorcycle was a 1972 Eldorado. I used it for everyday
commuting as well as weekend trips and vacation touring. It was very
reliable except for an uncommon appetite for clutch cables. (a lot of
clutch work in the city) I parked on the street in NYC every night and
no one hurt it or tried to steal it. I developed a typical city driving
style of splitting lanes, jumping curbs and generally doing anything to
keep out from under the cabs. After meeting my future wife we rode two
up into midtown everyday and I decided I needed something with more
brakes. I traded the '72 for a '00 Jackal and launched my '74/75
project. Which is now complete and awaiting a gas tank. I like the
Jackal but for around the city I actually prefer the loop. It was
geared lower and truckled along at low speeds better than the Jackal.
(At 80+ MPH the Jackal does have the edge on power and stability) When
Manfred Hecht built the motor that was to go in my project he asked if I
wanted the flywheel lightened. I kept the heavy flywheel for the low
rpm smoothness.
It would be funny to have a loopframe meet in the city. I think about
it during my rides to and from work:
Pros:
Poker run around Manhattan Isle
No shortage of restaurants
World famous shopping
Night life in the East Village
Brunch at the Ear Inn
Cons:
Camping in Central Park hazardous
Handguns prohibited unless you are a "local"
Canadian dollar worth only 60 cents
One Guzzi dealer per 4 millon inhabitants
42nd St. Theatres showing G rated movies
I'll be happy to host if you guys want to come up my way.
David