This is topic Bike crash in Northern MN in forum Film-Yak at Film-Tech Forum ARCHIVE.


To visit this topic, use this URL:
https://ft-forum.com/ft/cgi-bin/ubb/ultimatebb.cgi?ubb=get_topic;f=8;t=004616

---

Posted by Josh Jones (Member # 447) on 04-26-2006, 03:12 PM:
 
I thought I'd post this here too. The doc says I'll be back to my old self in 3-4 months.
Big ass versions of these pictures here









Word in this town usually spreads like wildfire so I'm sure it wont be long before most of you hear about this. Heath and I were up doing 113 north of DL when i went off the road at about 50 or 60, dont really remember, and tried my hand at lanscaping with the bike. People at the scene say I took out a chunk of a tree about 6-10 inches in diameter and completely sheared off 2 smaller ones. I wound up with the wind knocked uot of me under the rear tire with my head pinned to the ground. What seemed like 10 minutes later, Heath and two fishermen showed up and lifted the bike off of me. A nice gentlemen from fargo drove by with his trailer and brought the bike back to town for us. Really nice guy. Meanwhile i was brought by ambulance to Park Rapids hospital where I was told I probably had a broken shoulder and a stable fracture of my T12 vertebre in my mid back. I am going in for surgery on my shoulder this Thursday the 27th. I want to publically thank Heath for sticking with me at the ER until my Dad showed up and Todd, who brought back the bike.

I also want to say that had it not been for my gear there was a very real chance you guys would not be reading this message.

Now for the bike, in pictures.

<See link above>
JJ

[ 04-26-2006, 08:56 PM: Message edited by: Brad Miller ]
 

---

Posted by Chris Hipp (Member # 1788) on 04-26-2006, 03:24 PM:
 
Sorry to hear that. I've been pretty luck in that department. The worst I have gone down was slipping on an oil spot at a red light when it started to rain, only doing about 10mph.
 

---

Posted by Dennis Benjamin (Member # 1137) on 04-26-2006, 03:44 PM:
 
Nothing against anyone who rides motorcycles, but you'd never see me on one. My severe distrust of other drivers will keep me off a motorcycle forever.

Here's to quick healing

I wish you all the luck in the world.
 

---

Posted by John Pytlak (Member # 331) on 04-26-2006, 03:50 PM:
 
Wow!

Sorry about your accident, but so happy you are on the road to recovery. Get well soon.
 

---

Posted by Richard Fowler (Member # 893) on 04-26-2006, 03:56 PM:
 
Bad....my brother spent two periods in the hospital in one year from separate accidents and he has back and kidney problems years after retiring his bike. All that jogging and your age probably kept you limber enough to survive this one but a cat only has nine lives
 

---

Posted by Jeff Lacey (Member # 3217) on 04-26-2006, 04:08 PM:
 
Josh... Hope you're feeling better soon. Good luck with everything tomorrow!
 

---

Posted by Josh Jones (Member # 447) on 04-26-2006, 05:10 PM:
 
Well, and just because all the idiots are in the cages doesnt mean I wont ride again, but my immediate focus to riding will be more track time than street. Fortunately the only idiot I dealt with this time was the idiot aiming the bike

JJ
 

---

Posted by Steve Scott (Member # 630) on 04-26-2006, 05:37 PM:
 
That sucks Josh. I hope you heal soon so you can get back inside your machines (bike & film).
 

---

Posted by Phil Hill (Member # 371) on 04-26-2006, 05:44 PM:
 
I'm glad you were wearing your gear to protect your "gear"... Get well soon my friend!

>>> Phil
 

---

Posted by Mike Heenan (Member # 392) on 04-26-2006, 06:41 PM:
 
You were going 113 mph on your bike? Or do you mean you were on the 113 (not familiar with the area). If the former, you should be lucky you're alive even! (and yes I read where you went off the road at 50 or 60).
 

---

Posted by Joe Redifer (Member # 3) on 04-26-2006, 06:52 PM:
 
Sorry to hear of the injuries. Shoulder surgery isn't any fun.

quote: Josh Jones

---

...all the idiots are in the cages...

---

Not all of them. There are plenty o' idiots on motorcycles, bicycles (don't get me started on that one), scooters, and walking around.
 

---

Posted by Brad Miller (Member # 2) on 04-26-2006, 07:40 PM:
 
Ok it's got to be said, so I'm going to say it...please stay off of the bike until you are FULLY healed. You don't want to lose control again because you tried to ride before your body was ready again.

And with that said indeed you are lucky to be alive today. It doesn't take much. Another foot in the other direction and your skull could've impacted with that tree killing you, or even paralyzing you from the neck down. That wouldn't be a very fun next 60-70 years for you.

Take it easy on yourself and get better.
 

---

Posted by Bruce McGee (Member # 131) on 04-26-2006, 07:46 PM:
 
Josh, pal,

Glad you got away with what you got there. Here's wishing you a quick and speedy recovery!
 

---

Posted by Phil Hill (Member # 371) on 04-26-2006, 08:14 PM:
 

quote: Brad Miller

---

...please stay off of the bike until you are FULLY healed.

---

quote: Momma Miller

---

And with that said indeed you are lucky to be alive today.

---

quote: Papa Bear

---

But no matter what, we ALL have to live our individual passions...whether dangerous, stupit, or whatever others think!

---

I never said he shouldn't ride again. I just hope he will let himself fully heal before he gets back on the bike because that would (at least in my opinion) be putting himself at a much greater risk if he is riding again being even 10% impaired. So swivel on it, ya crazy coot!

Knowing nothing about bikes, is that damage really unrepairable?
 

---

Posted by Phil Hill (Member # 371) on 04-26-2006, 08:49 PM:
 
I think I said I agree with you...
 

---

Posted by Brad Miller (Member # 2) on 04-26-2006, 08:50 PM:
 
I know, but I just couldn't pass up the opportunity to tease you like you tease me!
 

---

Posted by Phil Hill (Member # 371) on 04-26-2006, 08:51 PM:
 

 

---

Posted by Bobby Henderson (Member # 840) on 04-26-2006, 09:36 PM:
 
Damn, Josh!

I know why you crashed. The pictures show your motorcycle had no handlebars!

 

---

Posted by Chris Hipp (Member # 1788) on 04-26-2006, 09:54 PM:
 
Yeah, looks like Phil is right, that is a piece of junk now, no chance repairing that. So, how much you want for it?

It probably could be repaired but there can be some unseen damage that could make it dangerous to ride. If the insurance will buy a new one then that is the best thing and sell the wrecked one for parts. At least that is what I would do.
 

---

Posted by Josh Jones (Member # 447) on 04-26-2006, 09:58 PM:
 
well the short list of what the machine needs is pretty much as follows:

New/used radiator
forks
triple tree
instrument cluster
tank
possible airbox
ignition switch
and, of corse, plastics

Ebay is your best friend

The frame doesnt look as if it took any direct impact, but I still want to send it in and have it measured/straightened if need be. the rest is pretty small stuff, but the insurance man would have totalled it.
It only had liability so I have to fix it.

JJ
 

---

Posted by Bobby Henderson (Member # 840) on 04-26-2006, 10:40 PM:
 
Don't you want to add handlebars to that list? Like I said, it didn't look like your bike had them before. Might be a good upgrade!


Heal up soon, dude.

 

---

Posted by Josh Jones (Member # 447) on 04-26-2006, 11:06 PM:
 
it had race clip-ons that merely folded back against the tank. look close and you can see the green grips.
 

---

Posted by Joe Redifer (Member # 3) on 04-27-2006, 12:01 AM:
 
So 113mph or highway 113?
 

---

Posted by Jennifer Pan (Member # 2035) on 04-27-2006, 04:21 AM:
 
Hi Josh.
 

---

Posted by Josh Jones (Member # 447) on 04-27-2006, 06:47 AM:
 
50mph on hwy 113
 

---

Posted by Mark J. Marshall (Member # 1409) on 04-27-2006, 10:26 AM:
 
That's ok, Bobby, I didn't see them either and was thinking the same thing. Shows what I know about bikes and handle bars!

You will never see me on a motorcycle. When I was about four or five, my uncle took me for a spin on a little dirt bike moped thingy, and we wrecked. It probably wasn't a bad wreck, but as a four year old, it scared the crap out of me. I'm still afraid of motorcycles to this day. You might see me on a bicycle though.

Glad you're ok, Josh. You are indeed lucky. Get well soon!
 

---

Posted by Chad Souder (Member # 343) on 04-27-2006, 01:06 PM:
 
When you find out, I'd be curious to know how much your insurance will go up. If you can still afford it, I think these
in the 50th anniversary color look sweet in person.
 

---

Posted by Josh Jones (Member # 447) on 04-27-2006, 05:04 PM:
 
A racer buddy of mine is doing up his ultralight entry this year in the 50th aniversary colors. He's got a little YZF-400. Cool little bike.
 

---

Posted by John Eickhof (Member # 323) on 04-27-2006, 05:20 PM:
 
GEEZE!! You are a lucky dog! I guess you will have to recruit someone to lift the reels for a while!! Godspeed on a rapid recovery!! Take care!!
 

---

Posted by Joe Redifer (Member # 3) on 04-27-2006, 06:07 PM:
 
I had surgery on both of my shoulders at the same time just for something to do (I was bored and the hospital was having a two-for-one sale on shoulder operations). I spent a week at home recovering and then I was back at work. Lifting things was never a problem, but trying to reach straight over my head sure was for awhile.
 

---

Posted by Josh Jones (Member # 447) on 04-27-2006, 11:09 PM:
 
The bone will be rock solid in about 4 or 6 weeks, then i have little physical therapy and I can go back to work/school in about 10 days

JJ
 

---

Posted by Paul Mayer (Member # 355) on 04-27-2006, 11:34 PM:
 
Wow. Only just heard about this last night at dinner with Ian.

Josh, hope you feel lucky because you are. Here's to a speedy recovery for you.
 

---

Posted by Joe Redifer (Member # 3) on 04-28-2006, 12:20 AM:
 
The doctor told me to do physical therapy as well. I went down there and looked around and I just didn't feel like doing it. On top of that it was mega-crowded and I had to sit and wait in what appeared to be a loooong line. So I left. No physical therapy for me.
 

---

Posted by Tim Reed (Member # 137) on 04-28-2006, 01:02 AM:
 
OMG, Josh! That's awful. PLEASE be careful... there's too much tragedy in life as it is. Get better soon, my friend.
 

---

Posted by Josh Jones (Member # 447) on 04-28-2006, 04:12 AM:
 
Hey if this the extent of my tragedy, I'll take it

Pics from happier times


 

---

Posted by Randy Stankey (Member # 64) on 04-28-2006, 10:36 AM:
 

quote: Brad Miller

---

...indeed you are lucky to be alive today.

---

Quite!

If Paul was still here he would be shitting little green apples right now!

He was so afraid something like this would happen. He told me so.
When you got your bike, he was literally beside himself!

Josh! Get better then TAKE IT EASY! Paul may have been looking out for you this time but he can't be there every time. Don't let your luck run out!
 

---

Posted by Joe Redifer (Member # 3) on 04-28-2006, 12:33 PM:
 
Those are cool pics, especially the first one (sans the giant watermark, of course).
 

---

Posted by Randy Stankey (Member # 64) on 04-28-2006, 02:14 PM:
 
Yeah! Couldn't they just Digimark it then put a bug in the corner saying so?
 

---

Posted by Phil Hill (Member # 371) on 04-28-2006, 08:28 PM:
 
Those pics are photo proofs.

Like most commercial photo sites, they have the watermark so as to discourage cheaters from downloading the pics and printing them without paying...

Josh, are those pics actually you? Where? When?

And! MOST important: Is there a 94X show tonight on KVXL?

PS: How did the surgery go? Gosh! Do I have my priorities all screwed up or what? I care! Honest! Hugs!
 

---

Posted by Josh Jones (Member # 447) on 04-30-2006, 01:09 PM:
 
Phil hit it on the head. they are proofs from my last track day, and hopefully before long I'll be doing that again. In the mean time though I'll sit at home and cook mac and cheese

There was a show, but it didnt seem like anyone was out there. I think I'll take a hiatus from radio for a while, as the music is stale, and its just too hard to do right now.

The surgery went well, all they had to use was the scope and a screw so I only have two holes in my shoulder instead of a huge scar, which is cool.

JJ
 

---

Posted by Floyd Justin Newton (Member # 1316) on 04-30-2006, 01:44 PM:
 
Josh--

Glad to hear that all is going well after the repair job. Just
take it easy for a while and it'll be OK.


 

---

Posted by Mark Gulbrandsen (Member # 72) on 04-30-2006, 03:14 PM:
 
I hope U get better Josh but can that piece of crap rice burner and get yourself a real bike! I used to mess with those rice burner thingys too . I have been riding for close to 20 years now and have had only one close call the second year I was riding........ when I went 135 mph past a cop that was parked:D . He didn't even bother!

Mark
 

---

Posted by Joe Redifer (Member # 3) on 04-30-2006, 08:33 PM:
 
Are you suggesting he get a Harley? I can't speak for Josh, but I know if I had a motorcycle, I'd want it to be faster than a Ford Pinto.
 

---

Posted by Phil Hill (Member # 371) on 04-30-2006, 10:03 PM:
 

quote: Josh Jones

---

...all they had to use was the scope and a screw...

---

Hey Josh, glad you got a screw and NOT screwed by your surgery! Take care and get better soon, bud!

Joe, I totally agree! I would NEVER have a ANY American-made bike...never ever!

The best one I ever had was my Kawasaki NINJA 750 back when I was a little older than Josh is now, but not quite as old a Mr. Pytlak.
 

---

Posted by Josh Jones (Member # 447) on 04-30-2006, 11:17 PM:
 
Just because I dont want to walk around in black leather all day and go putting around from bar to bar does not mean I dont own a real bike. My focus right now is track riding, and for that, the best tool is a japanese sport bike. at least I dont have to have a friend following me with a dustpan to catch all the parts that fall off a "quality american motorcycle"

Even then, I'd own a Yamaha
 

---

Posted by Mike Olpin (Member # 1115) on 05-01-2006, 12:30 AM:
 
I like that shade of green!
Get well soon my friend.

 

---

Posted by Scott Norwood (Member # 30) on 05-01-2006, 07:27 AM:
 
Get better, Josh, and be careful!
 

---

Posted by Mark Gulbrandsen (Member # 72) on 05-01-2006, 10:20 AM:
 

quote: Josh Jones

---

Even then, I'd own a Yamaha

---

quote: Josh Jones

---

at least I dont have to have a friend following me with a dustpan to catch all the parts that fall off a "quality american motorcycle"

---

I'm sure Paul would have disagreed with that statement.... He probably woulda kicked you in the ass too . My 93 Harley has given me zero problems. You can create what ever image you want to on any bike .

Mark
 

---

Posted by Dave Macaulay (Member # 813) on 05-01-2006, 11:10 AM:
 
"Knowing nothing about bikes, is that damage really unrepairable?"

Well, unrepairable no. But it is probably a writeoff - meaning the repair cost exceeds the insurance value. The bodywork isn't cheap. The instruments cost a bunch, the front fork legs are probably bent - $$$, frame may be bent - $$$$$$$$$.
The best (of a bad bunch) accident for repairability is being rear ended by a car... most crashes are just like this one, so those front end parts are impossible to get at a wrecker; rear end parts are very common.
The engine is usually OK, a crash bad enough to break the engine apart is unlikely to leave a live rider looking to fix the bike.
 

---

Posted by Chad Souder (Member # 343) on 05-01-2006, 12:30 PM:
 
Around 30% of Harley Davidson parts are made in Taiwan. They are not "all american". If you want an American bike, buy a Victory by Polaris. They are made here in the midwest.
 

---

Posted by Josh Jones (Member # 447) on 05-01-2006, 01:22 PM:
 
Actually Paul would have agreed with me. He owned an electroglide or two, and could attest to most of my comments. I am rather surprised you'd take an ancient machine,by modern sportbike standards at least, and compare it to modern racer replica technology. Contrary to your experiences, my bike is fuel injected, always starts, and the fairings always went back together the way they came off. it doesnt leak, its confortable, and it was a hell of a lot less than a Harley.

That being said I should also say that I dont have anything really against Harleys or the people that ride them, except for a small percentage that feel they are the only ones that belong on two wheels and that they are a breed apart. I have no time for these "Rolex Riders".

I ride in the rain, in the wind, and in the cold. I ride on the street, on the track, and on the highway. I am not a fair weather rider. Sportbike and track riding is my hobby, I have invested a good amount of money in safety gear for myself and the machine.

So say what you will. I like my rice burner, and in the future I will likely buy another one. If your idea of fun is hitting up the country roads on your full dress on a sunday afternoon thats fine. I'll be the one blasting past you and dragging knee through the next corner. My idea of fun these days is flying through chicanes leaned over hard on the brakes, feeling the suspension squat through the apex of the next turn.

So if you need me, I'll be in the garage, spinning wrenches...
 

---

Posted by Luciano Brigite (Member # 1104) on 05-01-2006, 07:14 PM:
 
After seeing the pictures of your bike, I say you're lucky in having only a broken shoulder and a vertebre.. Seems you did choose your safety gear quite well..
While I worked ina theatre chain some years ago wasn'tr uncommon to get a call on hte booth phone to go start another theatre because the projectionest didn't show up due to a bike accident,usually they showed up a week later full of bandages and stuff to help 'em walk around.Also had a relative involved inna accided and staying at home for at least 4 months full of pins in his leg. definatly not good..
Good to hear surgery went well and you're ok ! take easy on things for a while until you recover fully
 

---

Posted by Joe Redifer (Member # 3) on 05-01-2006, 07:58 PM:
 
I don't know a lot about motorcycles, but perhaps someone could explain the purpose of the triangular humps on the backs of the rider's jacket? I've noticed this hump on the professional riders who are in the videogames I play as well, so it must serve a purpose. Also what is the purpose of dragging knee and how do you keep it from getting skinned all to hell?
 

---

Posted by Chris Hipp (Member # 1788) on 05-01-2006, 08:26 PM:
 
The humps are back protectors and I believe some of them are so high for aerodynamic purposes.

quote: Josh Jones

---

That being said I should also say that I dont have anything really against Harleys or the people that ride them, except for a small percentage that feel they are the only ones that belong on two wheels and that they are a breed apart. I have no time for these "Rolex Riders".

---

Couldn't agree more. I think newer harleys are decent bikes but WAY overpriced. If I won one in a contest or something I would sell it and buy me a japenese cruiser, a sportbike and a dirtbike, and probably still have some left over.
 

---

Posted by Josh Jones (Member # 447) on 05-01-2006, 09:14 PM:
 
"Dragging a knee" is a technique used by track riders to carry more corner speed. If you sit perfectly vertical on the bike and try to round a corner at high speed, there is a good chance you will lean the bike over to the point where you start dragging hard parts of the motorcycle, footpegs and the like. This is not desirable! There is also a good chance you will lean right off the edge of the tire. So by leaning off of the bike, you shift the center of gravity of the machine, thus lessening the degree of lean angle the bike has to do to make the corner. As a result, you can carry more speed through the corner and go faster on the track.

If you look at pictures of leather racing suits you will notice slider or knee pucks. The cheaper ones are made of plastic, most racers use pucks made out of ceramic composities because they last longer. Another reason to stick out a knee is to gauge lean angle. By doing this you can gauge how far you are leaned over, and ultimately how much lean you have left, and how much faster you can go through the turn. The pro guys like Ben Spies in AMA racing sometimes have to worry about dragging their elbows through corners! Now thats some lean angle.

As stated by others, Helmet Humps serve mostly aerodynamic purposes by smoothing off the turbulent mass of air leaving the back of the helmet, thus reducing drag on the riders head and neck. It is also theoretically serving as a crash protection by limiting the amount of backward travel the head is allowed to do.

JJ
 

---

Posted by Don Anderson (Member # 397) on 05-02-2006, 10:25 PM:
 
Josh, you are lucky to be alive after the accident. Ouch!!! Hopefully, you were wearing a good helmet and didn't mess up that pretty mug of yers!!! I have a buddy that used to race professionally at Elkhart Lake here in Wisconsin (I think that's the name of it)He's been racing professionally since he was 18, he's now 49, and gave it up two years ago. So, you've got a lot of years ahead of ya to race...just....ummmm....stay on the road. Hope ya have a speedy recovery. Physical therapy suxs ass.
 

---

Posted by Josh Jones (Member # 447) on 05-03-2006, 01:03 AM:
 
Thanks for all the well wishes guys. It does do a lot more good to do that than saying "I told ya so.."

It's too bad, I joined NESBA just so I could ride Road America in June, a few days before the AMA's. I still may ride out there in august, if the bike is finished by then and if I can ride.

Time will tell...

JJ
 

---

Posted by Don Anderson (Member # 397) on 05-04-2006, 12:00 AM:
 
Josh, let me know if ya do make it up to RoadAmerica in August. I'm about 45-60 minutes away. You are more than welcome to "crash".......ummmmm bad choice of words.....how about "stay here". I've got a spare bedroom in the duplex and a garage for the bike. Or drive down and check out our theatre in West Bend!
 

---

Posted by Phil Hill (Member # 371) on 05-04-2006, 12:35 AM:
 
Josh, let me see if I understand Don's posts:

1st he thinks you have a "pretty mug"...I don't think he's referring to your coffee cup.

2nd, he's inviting you to spend the night at his place... hmmmmmm

I'd be real careful Josh....

(Sorry Don, I couldn't resist!)
 

---

Posted by Josh Jones (Member # 447) on 05-04-2006, 01:33 AM:
 
If NESBA is up there they usually provide camping at the track, but thanks for the offer. More than likely when were down there in June for the AMA's we'll camp on site too. Plus there is some extended family down there we should visit as well.

JJ
 

---

Posted by Don Anderson (Member # 397) on 05-04-2006, 03:07 PM:
 
Phil has got a one track mind. Bad boy. I'm not lookin' to ride his bike or anything else .
 

---

Posted by Jason Black (Member # 684) on 05-11-2006, 09:18 PM:
 
Damn Josh..

Hate to hear about your get off bro..

By the looks of the bike, if the frame isn't tweaked, you'd be better off taking any insurance proceeds and hitting Ebay.. or RoadRacer or Racer Magazine. You can find ALL SORTS of good deals out there on stuff.. if you take time to look.

That said.. make sure the frame and forks aren't tweaked and I wouldn't be worried about riding it again. I don't know of any performance specialists in your area, but if you get that Kow down to the frame, you can ship it to CompTronixx (I think it is) in Atlanta. I hear that they are one of the best...

Heal quick and get back on the bike and hit that track! There is NOTHING like a good day at the track... Be it the 1/8, 1/4, moto, enduro, hare scramble, or road race track.. ;-)

PS. I sold my Warrior, so I'm stuck in the Accord right now. I'm looking for another Warrior, but the finances don't really agree with what my mind is telling me...
 

---

Posted by Jim Bedford (Member # 4) on 05-12-2006, 06:40 PM:
 
Ouch! There are three types of people who ride motorcycles: those who have fallen off one, those who will fall off one and those who will fall off one again.
 

---

Posted by Josh Jones (Member # 447) on 05-12-2006, 10:06 PM:
 

quote: Jason Black

---

you'd be better off taking any insurance proceeds.....

---

what insurance proceeds

liability sucks

Jim, that was one of Pauls favorite sayings reguarding the subject.
 

---

Posted by Jason Black (Member # 684) on 05-13-2006, 05:40 PM:
 
Yes.. liability does suck...

My theory is "if you can't keep collision on a bike.. you don't need it.."

I learned that AFTER my 900RR was stolen (and recovered) several years ago.
 

---

Posted by Phil Hill (Member # 371) on 05-26-2006, 02:31 PM:
 
So Josh, what's the latest?

How are you healing?

What's the bike staus?
 

---

Posted by Chris Hipp (Member # 1788) on 05-27-2006, 12:42 PM:
 
My 17 year old cousin just wrecked his bike, '78 CB750F, a few days ago. He says he fell asleep and hit a curb. I don't know about that though. He broke his collar bone in two places but other than that he is fine.

Edit: ok

[ 05-27-2006, 03:34 PM: Message edited by: Chris Hipp ]
 

---

Posted by Brad Miller (Member # 2) on 05-27-2006, 03:05 PM:
 

quote: Chris Hipp

---

My 17 year old just wrecked his bike

---

Wow, you're looking pretty good for your age!
 

---

Posted by Dave Williams (Member # 299) on 05-29-2006, 12:28 PM:
 
Man you have got to take it easy on that thing! I am glad to see you are alive. Back in the day I took a major spill and smashed into a ford f250. I walked away from it as I dumped the bike before impact and managed to miss the truck myself. The bike was totaled, but I was merely bruised. This was just 40 MPH.

Two of my best friends in school died on their bike, but they were tearing at 110 mph when they took a connector ramp that had a warning of 35. They peeled across the freeway and smashed into the side of another.

Keep it on the track. Riding in traffic is just asking for trouble. We want to see you grow into a very old and cranky man. Just like Phil.

Ciao
 

---

Posted by Josh Jones (Member # 447) on 05-29-2006, 09:41 PM:
 
Dave, I'm already cranky( must be old age).

Chris, sorry to hear about you cousin, speedy recovery

The shoulder is coming along, I have a followup in about a week to determine what to do now, probably physical therapy. I am getting some movement back into it and most, if not all, of the pain has subsided.

The bike has a new-to-me set of forks, speedo cluster that will have to have the mileage corrected, a radiator, a tank cover and a few other odds and ends. The frame is tweeked, quite badly we discovered, so a new one will be on the way this week.

So from the looks of it, unless I hunt down a headlight assembly and street plastics, this thing is going to be a track machine for the rest of its life with me.

The down side to all of this is the bike will have a salvage title on it if and when I sell it. The up side is I'll just go and buy a cheepish used street machine for commuting/fun riding. This way, I dont have to spend an entire evening before a track day preparing the bike.

Now if you excuse me gentlemen, there is a TV trasnmitter sitting in a field I'm going to raid for parts
 

---

Posted by Paul Mayer (Member # 355) on 05-29-2006, 11:28 PM:
 
Josh, how much of it can you raid and still keep the thing on the air? I can see the guys down in master control now, "Hey boss! Why is the ERP suddenly dropping all by itself?"

Also, remember to empty the harmonic traps first. Wouldn't want to get any of that nasty stuff on you while you're working on the plumbing...

Oops, time to take my meds.
 

---

Posted by Josh Jones (Member # 447) on 05-30-2006, 01:50 AM:
 
its an old 50's era RCA that was their backup TX. They 'decommissioned' it and its now laying face down in the field behind the transmitter building. I'll resurrect it and use it in my campaign to rule the world



 

---

Posted by Mike Blakesley (Member # 26) on 05-30-2006, 01:58 PM:
 
I can see the headline now: "Man survives motorcycle crash only to be killed by electric shock."

(DISCLAIMER: Actually I don't know anything about TV transmitters so I have no idea if that's possible but I thought it sounded funny.)
 

---

Posted by Manny Knowles (Member # 1171) on 05-30-2006, 02:19 PM:
 
Josh...stay off those bikes. They are dangerous. Why are you so eager to toy with your health?

Next, I suppose you'll take up smoking.

Youth! It's wasted on the young!

Get well...and stay well. Seriously! Don't make me come over there.
 

---

Posted by Josh Jones (Member # 447) on 05-30-2006, 04:44 PM:
 
Manny I respect you but dont tell me what to do with my free time and I wont tell you what to do with yours.

"Everybody dies, but not everybody lives"

JJ
 

---

Posted by Manny Knowles (Member # 1171) on 05-30-2006, 05:22 PM:
 
Whatever.

Get well...you jerk...
 

---

Posted by Phil Hill (Member # 371) on 05-30-2006, 06:02 PM:
 

quote: Manny Knowles

---

Get well...you jerk...

---

Hmmmm, well that was certainly uncalled for! I should point out being very rude, insulting, and all that IS ***MY*** job here!

Also, at the risk of the wrath of Mommy Miller, I repeat:

quote: That loveable, sweetheart guy, Phil Hill

---

...no matter what, we ALL have to live our individual passions...whether dangerous, stupit, or whatever others think!

We ONLY get to go around here once! We MUST make the best of it and enjoy it! HA!

---

I totally agree with Josh. He's got the right attitude about life and his passions!
 

---

Posted by Brad Miller (Member # 2) on 05-30-2006, 07:27 PM:
 
Manny, you sound like an insensitive prick. ( for those who get the joke)

Big surprise guys, Manny just doesn't want to see Josh hurt (decapitated, paralyzed for life, etc) and Josh wants to follow his passion well knowing the risks. It's his decision, so go for it. At least you have people who care about your health Josh.

Enough of the soap opera, let's get this thread back on track. (Horrible pun intended. ) Get better Josh.

PS, Phil I think you need a spanking. I'll call Chuck Norris.
 

---

Posted by Phil Hill (Member # 371) on 05-31-2006, 03:30 AM:
 
You best check with Bob Maartini! He knows I can kick Cordell Walker's ass big time!
 

---

Posted by Bob Maar (Member # 763) on 06-01-2006, 03:35 PM:
 
Memorandum To: Cordell Walker

From: Bob Maar

Subject:Kicking Ass

Please be advised that you have been called a wimp by Film Tecker Phil Hill in the Los Angles area. His home is above the Hollywood sign. I have made arrangements for you to have a 24 hour leave from your duties.

Please go and wipe up California with Mr.Hills remains.
 

---

Posted by Josh Jones (Member # 447) on 06-09-2006, 10:50 PM:
 
Update:

Had a meeting with the doc Wednesday and they took xrays and such. The doc was quite pleased with his work, as the bones are virtually perfectly aligned and very close to fully healed. I have a meeting with a physical therapist on Monday. I'm pretty stoked(I hate that word, but it seemed to fit). I no longer have to wear the brace, and can with help, lift my arm over my head.

Now, I just gotta fix the bike...

JJ
 

---

Posted by Josh Jones (Member # 447) on 09-23-2006, 03:44 AM:
 
Another update:

So here we are 4 or 5 months out and things are pretty good. I have full range of motion back in my shoulder and nothing hurts The bike has also seen several track days and here's a short list of what I've done to it to get it back to where it was.

-new main frame
-new fiberglass bodywork
-new windshield
-new front wheel and rotors
-new steering head bearing (all Ballz Racing)
-new chain and sprocket set while I was at it
-stainless steel brake lines
-bent shift lever back into position (Billet aluminum is tough stuff!)
-billet case guards
-frame sliders

it still needs paint and a new tank, but after 4500 I'm gonna call it good for the year.

First day back on the bike was at road america in WI. I was nervous as hell, but the bike ran great and I was soon late braking from 150 MPH into the turns. Nearly highsided coming out of the kink after the carousel, so I slowed the pace and dropped a group and all was fine.

The Bike


Pic from RA


Pics from BIR




So all in all I was pretty lucky, but I look forward to many more years of riding, and eventually amateur racing.

JJ
 

---

Posted by Joe Redifer (Member # 3) on 09-23-2006, 08:29 AM:
 
Screw that, man! Go for MotoGP!!!!!
 

---

Posted by Steve Scott (Member # 630) on 09-23-2006, 09:55 AM:
 
Glad to hear you've been restored, Josh.

The bike looks great again. Still a good set of weeks, maybe a month to ride before everything freezes
 

---

Posted by Josh Jones (Member # 447) on 09-23-2006, 09:24 PM:
 
I still have a track day in Omaha in October and Kansas in November so I have a few track days left before i have to furl it all away for winter. The can-o-tuna is done for the year unless it gets a new chain and sprocket set. BTW I picked up something cheap for the streets after I fixed the track bike. So I have two bikes now. twice the oil changes

JJ
 

---

Posted by Chris Hipp (Member # 1788) on 09-24-2006, 01:56 AM:
 
How many times are you going to have to be told to move to Texas so you can ride year round before you do it?

For someone who is not afraid to ride in the rain you might have one or two days a year that you can't ride.
 

---

Posted by Josh Jones (Member # 447) on 10-03-2006, 03:03 AM:
 
*sigh*

Although I dont doubt the advantages of a warmer climate, I just dont like it down there for some reason. Maybe I'll split the difference and move to kansas

As for motoGP, I think the closest I'll ever get is walking through the pits of Laguna Seca, but I guess I can always dream
 

---

Posted by Joe Redifer (Member # 3) on 10-03-2006, 09:59 AM:
 
No way dude! LeMans, Donnington, you gotta ride them! Be sure to take the "long way" around LeMans... the one they use for the 24 hour race.
 

---

Posted by Phil Hill (Member # 371) on 10-03-2006, 08:49 PM:
 

quote: Josh Jones

---

Although I dont doubt the advantages of a warmer climate, I just dont like it down there for some reason.

---

I sorta agree with you, Josh. Not sure why, but there is something, besides the humidity and temperatures, that I don't like about Texas. I just don't feel "grounded" there.

I cannot make up my mind to move there near my relatives or somewhere like New Mexico or Arizona...OR stay where I am! (I'm such a indecisive wimp!)
 

---

Posted by Josh Jones (Member # 447) on 10-10-2006, 09:48 PM:
 
Sounds like its time for me to buy a PS2 or something eh?

JJ
 

---

Posted by Jennifer Pan (Member # 2035) on 10-10-2006, 10:46 PM:
 
You are so old school... Xbox360 baby
 

---

Posted by Josh Jones (Member # 447) on 10-11-2006, 02:24 PM:
 
LOL, shows you what I know about gaming. There has to be an emulator for everything by now though.

JJ
 

---

Posted by System Notices (Member # 2357) on 07-20-2012, 12:16 PM:
 

It has been 2108 days since the last post.

 

---

Posted by Manny Knowles (Member # 1171) on 07-20-2012, 12:16 PM:
 
What a difference six years makes -- I got my motorcycle endorsement earlier this week.
 

---

Posted by Tony Bandiera Jr (Member # 2365) on 07-20-2012, 02:41 PM:
 

quote: Manny Knowles

---

Whatever.

Get well...you jerk...

---

Be careful Manny, words can come back to bite you in the ass.

I miss my 86 FZ750, it was a fun bike that I rebuilt...it was an abandoned service bike (kid who owned it couldn't pay for the estimate or the repair.) I tore it down to the bare frame, rebuilt the engine, and put it all back together, intending to get a custom pain job done on the plastics. But once I got it running, I was riding it so much I never got around to restoring the plastics.

I put over 45,000 very hard miles on that bike, including riding in the snow, ice, severe thunderstorms, a tornado(!) and a lap on the motocross track at Hollister Hills. (The bike hated me for a week after that one.) The only trouble it ever gave me was the annual killing of the battery.

I was forced to sell it in a situation that estranged me from one of my sisters for several years.

Here's a pic, taken after a flag football game in West Hollywood.



Manny, be safe and if you possibly can, get some time on a dirt bike first as it will teach you a LOT about bike handling, including proper use of the brakes and abrupt cornering, both of which saved my bacon several times on the street.

BTW, where the heck is Josh? Haven't seen him post much here lately.
 

---

Posted by Manny Knowles (Member # 1171) on 07-20-2012, 06:15 PM:
 
Oh, Tony!

If I had a nickel for every time my ass almost got bitten -- oh well. We'll save those tales for another time!

BTW, you are/were quite the head-turner on that bike!

Phil isn't here, so I'll say it:

"Hubba Hubba!"

Wow!

Safety first -- I totally get it! I started out by studying the MSF manual back in October and then went in to take the written exam, and got my learner permit sometime before Christmas. After that I just kept reading/researching while waiting for summer, when they'd be offering the safety course -- and I also had to wait for summer in order to have the time to go up to Indy for that, since it's not offered here in Bloomington. I finally attended (and passed) the basic MSF course last weekend.

I'm watching a series of "beginner/safety" DVD's that our library has, and I bought a normal bicycle to practice cornering (in the big empty parking lot by Macy's). Cornering was my weak spot in the training. Countersteering and leaning took some getting used to. I'd ridden bicycles ever since childhood, but never put any intentional thought into how turning works. Something about "knowing" makes it a little scary, coz it's counter-intuitive.

And, all the while, I've also been window-shopping the various bikes. I'm sure the dealers are well-primed to sell me a bike after seeing me in their showrooms so many times over the past (almost) year. Maybe that will work to my advantage. We'll see. I'm in no hurry to buy, so they're gonna have to earn it.

To my surprise, the Harley-Davidson sales people have been way more friendly to a new rider than I initially expected -- two stores in two states -- and they know I'm not buying a brand-new Harley. I guess I assumed they'd be grumpy old men who don't have time for novices. So far, that's been 100% wrong.

I've kind-of settled on the Honda Rebel as my preferred "first bike." Now I'm debating new vs used.

New
You know what you're getting
It comes with a warranty
Low APR financing (1.9%)

Used
Save about $1000
Most seem to have low mileage (but they tend to be somebody else's starter bike, and probably been dropped)

Sigh.

Any thoughts?
 

---

Posted by Tony Bandiera Jr (Member # 2365) on 07-20-2012, 07:06 PM:
 
We'll have to chat privately about your ass and biting.

LOL that pic is older than I want to admit to, I wish I still looked that good.

I think I sent that pic to Phil once...not sure anymore though.

The MSF courses are a good idea but there is no substitute for actual saddle time, and like I said dirt bikes make the best trainers, even if you don't ride motocross like I do. I have a book by Keith Code ("A Twist of the Wrist") which is an excellent book on sportbike racing, but reading about it is nothing compared to actually doing it on the bike. (Kinda like sex really.) So if you have access to a dirtbike get out and practice, especially your cornering.

Speaking of which, using a bicycle to practice your cornering is, IMHO a very bad idea as cornering on a motorcycle is very dependent on throttle control as well as balance. You may be inadvertently training your body to respond in the wrong way.

As for the new vs. used debate: For a first bike, especially smaller displacement bikes (500-750cc) you are right, they do get a lot of abuse, but generally speaking a test ride and listen by a mechanic can help rule out any major issues. If the bike cold-starts easily, as a general rule it is in good shape. If it is hard to start (especially when hot) there are probably issues with the fuel delivery or ignition or engine wear.

I suggest a good used bike for any first time rider for a few reasons:

• You WILL lay the bike down at least a few times while getting used to it;
• You WILL damage the fairings/plastic/handlebars/clip-ons when you drop the bike;
• You WILL severely diminish the resale value of a new bike by dropping it;
• Insurance on a new bike will be much more expensive (and you'll probably have to carry full coverage since a new bike is liable to be financed.)

As an example, FULL coverage on my FZ750 in 1993 was only $650 a year. (30k/30k liability, 50k property damage/medical, and replacement of the bike at a value of $3,500 which was about $1,500 more than it was worth.) The SAME coverages for a 1993 Suzuki GSXR750 was over $2,800 per year.
AFTER you have ridden for a year or two and got some experience under your belt that is the time to think of getting a new bike.
And if you ever get to So Cal you can take a ride on my 2000 YZ 250, aka "Double Nuts":



That's us at my fav track in Hesperia.
 

---

Posted by Manny Knowles (Member # 1171) on 07-20-2012, 08:12 PM:
 
Thanks for the tips -- I've put a "hold" request for the Code book at the local library.

Bicycle -- just really a low risk way to convince my brain that counter steering works they way "they" say it does -- and it does!

(It also revealed how out-of-shape I've become.)

I will most likely go with used -- but i'm gonna wait for a steal of a deal -- within reason -- there are only so many weeks left in the season here and i don't wanna miss out completely by being a cheapskate

I just watched Street Smarts Volume 2 - Lessons from the Track and they're also recommending getting some time on a dirt bike.

Personally, I have a thing for dirt biker helmets. That's another chat we can have. LOL

I'll take you up on that riding offer if I'm ever out that way again.
 

---

Posted by Tony Bandiera Jr (Member # 2365) on 07-21-2012, 01:34 PM:
 
Excellent man.

Now where's Josh to add to this? With his racing experience I'd like to hear his view.
 

---

Posted by Manny Knowles (Member # 1171) on 07-21-2012, 09:16 PM:
 
Found a 2002 Honda Rebel in decent shape -- clean, around 4000mi -- a few issues:

1. Needs throttle immediately after ignition.
2. Choke kills the engine.
3. Hand brake does not illuminate tail light.

Are any of these red flags, especially with regard to getting them fixed.

I'm guessing #3 is a simple fix..?

Some perspective:
Brand new, around $4200
2007-09, with similar mileage -- around $2400
This bike -- $1600
 

---

Posted by Tony Bandiera Jr (Member # 2365) on 07-21-2012, 09:37 PM:
 
Manny my little stud muffin:

1 and 2 give me cause for concern. It could be as simple as the carb needing adjustment, but it can also mean the top end (valves) need replaced/adjusted. That can be pricey, around $400-800 depending on parts and labor needed.

Kelley Blue Book RETAIL for an EXCELLENT bike is only $1,650.00

KBB

And odds are with the issues you describe I would not call it excellent.

If this is private party I would go no more than $1,000.00 If it is from a dealer make them check out the issues and give an estimate for the repairs needed and make them fix it, then I would say go no more than $1,300.00

At 1k private party you are taking a small risk if the repairs hit the high end of my estimate but you won't be getting completely screwed on the deal.

Item # 3 can be either a broken wire or a $30-50 switch.
 

---

Posted by Manny Knowles (Member # 1171) on 07-21-2012, 09:49 PM:
 
Thanks for the advice -- also, as I review my photographs, I noticed that the rebel logo is missing from the gas tank. This makes me suspect there may have been bodywork. Between this observation and your comments, I'm starting to have questions about this one.

I'll see if the guy is willing to negotiate down further. And I think I'll take it to one of the Honda dealerships and have them look it over, and get an estimate for all of the necessary repairs.
 

---

Posted by Manny Knowles (Member # 1171) on 07-21-2012, 11:09 PM:
 
Now that I'm home and could see the pictures all zoomed up to full-res, here's what I can see:

Scuff/scrape marks on both sides of the engine -- so it appears to have been down at least twice -- once on each side.

Bike is black, but the 2002 model only came in red, so this has at least been painted, perhaps as part of crash-related bodywork.
 

---

Posted by Monte L Fullmer (Member # 2797) on 07-21-2012, 11:49 PM:
 
Rebels: A teenage version of the little 185 Twinstar, and a little brother to the 1978-82 CB 400T/450E Twin cylinder series.

All had the same motor/3 valve head design with the 360 degree crank (both pistons travel in the same direction), cam setup and SS waste spark ignition system (both plugs fired at the same time, but one fired pos to neg and the other fired neg to pos - both in series with the coil output).

My first new bike was the 1979, CB-400T 5sp. Rode that thing everywhere until I had to let it go to move.
 

---

Posted by Manny Knowles (Member # 1171) on 07-22-2012, 03:12 PM:
 
Another Honda Rebel -- 1987 with around 6000 miles on it -- I'm going to see it this afternoon -- As a single factor, how important is the age of the bike?

I'm reminded of the line in "Raiders" -- "It's not the years; it's the mileage!"

One question that comes to mind is, could there be a possible issue getting parts for a 30 year-old bike?

My apprehension about "buying used" comes from many bad experiences with my dad -- he always bought crappy used cars (and boats) -- and he supposedly "knew what he was doing," whereas I admittedly don't have 100% confidence that I'll spot a good buy.
 

---

Posted by Tony Bandiera Jr (Member # 2365) on 07-22-2012, 04:14 PM:
 
In the case of bikes especially, age is the bigger factor as many parts become obsolete/no longer available by either manufacturers or aftermarket companies. 30 years is really pushing your luck on parts availability. Often, engine parts are fairly available as some models use the same parts over several years of production. Body and other hard parts are usually unique to a given year and are much harder/more expensive to get as years go by.

Example: On my '86 FZ, in 2000/2001 NONE of the body parts were available from Yamaha, the chain slider and other drives parts were NLA and some of the engine parts were also NLA. Electrics? Forget it, nothing was available anymore either. Even the windscreen was discontinued by Lockhart/Phillips.

Remember that there are far fewer bikes of any given model/year produced as compared to a model/year of cars.

Before you consider an older bike, do a web search for parts and see what's available before you dive in and buy.

As a rule, if I were looking at a street bike right now I would go no older than mid 90's and for a dirt bike no older than 2002. Double Nuts was an exception for me because he was in great condition and I was able to talk the seller down to a comfortable price. ($1,250 from $1,600)
 

---

Posted by Manny Knowles (Member # 1171) on 07-22-2012, 08:08 PM:
 
Good -- I'm glad I asked. Thanks again.

Well, I have to say, the 1986 bike looks a heck of a lot better than some of the 2006-2011 bikes I've seen. No sign of scrapes, scratches or bodywork. It hasn't been used-n-abused. Everything on it is clean. A little dusty from storage -- she traded up to a Harley Sportster. This one is a contender.

I'll check with the local Honda dealerships and ask them about parts availability.

One hiccup -- the battery was dead. The owner said she turned it on earlier when she took it out of the garage and then forgot to switch off the ignition. We push-started it and the engine itself is good and all the electrics are working properly, with the only possible exception being the starter -- I want to ask her to make sure it's all charged up, so I can return and see it start from cold.
 

---

Posted by Bill Enos (Member # 440) on 07-24-2012, 12:00 PM:
 
Honda is probably the only older Asian bike to consider as they have a division that specializes on parts for older models.
Also expect to pay a substantial amount up front for repairs on old bikes from shops of all kinds. Repair bills can quickly exceed the value of the bike. Dealers are officially discouraged from working on old bikes by most manufacturers and prohibited by some.
 

---

Posted by Manny Knowles (Member # 1171) on 07-24-2012, 03:40 PM:
 
Good to know -- I could always take it back to the 1st owner who is a Honda mechanic -- or learn to fix motorcycles myself..?

Still waiting to hear if the battery held its charge.

Is it true that you can't charge a motorcycle battery by simply idling it?
 

---

Posted by Adam Fraser (Member # 1074) on 07-24-2012, 04:17 PM:
 
I am a licensed master motorcycle mechanic and what Bill says is mostly correct.

I refuse to work on anything older than about 1985, but mostly because anything older than that is usually junk someone pulled out of a field and wants me to get running for $100. And over 50% of the people did not pick up their junk after it was fixed.

Rebels I do not believe have changed much over the years so you should have no problem finding parts, new and used.

Manny, if you are good at mechanical things a simple bike like a Rebel should be no problem for you if you get a good factory service manual for it.

Bikes do not typically charge until 2000-3000 RPM, their stators are nothing compared to a car alternator.
 

---

Posted by Bill Enos (Member # 440) on 07-24-2012, 08:42 PM:
 
Main reason cycles don't charge at lower engine speeds is that cycle alternators turn at crankshaft speed rather than several times crank speed as on a car due to pulley ratios.
 

---

Posted by Manny Knowles (Member # 1171) on 07-25-2012, 02:50 PM:
 
Thanks for the tips on battery charging, and the possible issues with servicing!

I called the local Honda dealer and they'd still service it if it's in good condition -- as Adam said, they don't take bikes that aren't worth the cost of repairing -- and, in some cases, an older bike might have to wait until after the busy season (which is right now) but they said they'd still take it right away if I wanted to bring it in for service before using it -- that's reassuring.
 

---