Subject: Spring Ride
Author: Charlie Mullendore
Date: May 1, 2005, 5:19 PM
Post ID: 1718795784
Today I lead the "2nd Annual MD/DC MGNOC Spring Ride" on Sophia and my
buddy Joseph rode my '69 since his Sears Allstate 250 is currently
non-running. Just over 200 miles total, 90% backroad. There were 10
bikes total, 2 bikes ridden two-up. Four Guzzis (my two, a Stone and a
V11 Sport), one Ducati (my brother's 907ie), one Honda (VTX1800) and
four Harleys (all Electra-Glides, one a '72). Everyone enjoyed
themselves on some of the best backroads in the northern Shenandoah
Valley area of VA.
Only two mechanical problems on the trip - first the Shovelhead Harley
lost it's oil tank cap (fixed with duct tape until a temporary freeze
plug was bought at an auto parts store later) and my '69's starter
button came apart after 36 years of service. We just pulled the boot off
the back and would cross the terminals with a Leatherman tool to start
it then.
Sophia performed almost flawlessly, with the only "problem" being the
still too lean idle/low speed mixture. Ran her just as I would the '69
and so far no leaks or other unladylike behavior. :-) The tall 850GT
screen allowed me to run with my faceshield open and smell the
wildflowers in bloom along the way. Didn't get "numbbutt" or
"shatterhand" like I normally do, the engine's smoothness no doubt
contributing to this. In all, a very encouraging second shakedown ride!
Charlie
http://www.loopframeguzzi.com/