Evan

Guess it would have to be my first bike, the 62 Honda 90, as I have never been without a bike since then.

These are the bikes I owned in the 60's, before I married in 68. Sold the TR6 after I got married. Bought the first one, the Honda 90, so I wouldn't have to ride my bicycle or thumb 22 miles a day to get a horse place. Not sad about my divorce, but sure wish I didn't sell the Triumph. However, I did own a Suzuki 500 and a KZ 650 in the 70's during that marriage.

Better late than never - I hope. This is our first day back home since we left the WNY Rally, and my 1st chance to post some pics and add a bit from what has been posted by others. Hats off the WNY gang for another outstanding event.

Why shower Phil. You may be riding in the rain. Truth is, wish we were riding with you, but hope to get there tomorrow. Safe riding!

Big thanks Dave. Have already done what you suggested, with success, so now hoping to head out early tomorrow am. Been a real challenge this year as in addition to realizing I had no plate yesterday, we have had to work around a family death and visit by my daughter from Calgary, but we have now managed all that. However, just now got a call about my mother being sent to a hospital due to a fall so I have to deal with that next. As I said, we still hope to get away, but it will now depend on mom's situation. What a ride!

Think I should listen to Ben for now Dave but glad to share my story with you, hopefully at the rally. Won!t take the 8 hr run to search for my plate where I think it is due to heavy rain forecast today but if I can get a replacement plate, we will get there tomorrow am.

OOPS - just realized I have been riding for the last week without my licence plate, and it's an 8 hour ride to get it, with a forecast of heavy rain along the way. Don't think I should try to cross the border without it. So our plans at the moment are up in the air.

Same boat I guess, except we need to deal with Microtel reservations. I will talk with them. I will try to have the flexibility to leave with Carl either Later Thurs or

Like for some others, our planning for this event that we enjoy so much has been up and down. We thought we might have to pass due to grandkids coming in from Calgary - but worked that out. Then an aunt died Sunday and we expected funeral plans would force changes, but that is working out. However, our plans to get away Thurs (with Marcarl and others) is still up in the air given Don's weather forecast, so we may also hold off till Friday am. If so, we would be happy to join Don and others also departing Friday am.

Just back home and trying to sort out our plans. As it stands, we hope to get away Thurs afternoon or Friday morning. Hope we can make Thurs afternoon so we can join you. Will confirm as soon as possible. We are booked at the Microtel. Have to return later Sat evening.

Put a second gen starter (which is 4 pole rather than 2) on my 88. It is a straight bolt on change as they are interchangeable. the difference is totally amazing.

Quite a story and thanks for sharing Brad. Amazing that neither of you were hurt. Think that also had something to do with skilled riding, Good luck with your repairs or replacement.

Dave, just now saw your post cause I am out of the country. Amazed and impressed at how you handled going down. Also, your report about the affect of hydro planing was very educational for me. Like others, I am so glad that the only thing hurting is your pride. Good luck on fixing (or replacing) your bike.

What a great story Dave and how right you are. As I said to Bongobob a few days ago, it!s pretty special.

My experience is that the difference between the original and 4 pole starter is simply amazing. I noticed virtually no difference with my cable upgrades but the 4 pole starter - WOW. It?s also a straight bolt in place deal.

Just checked and you can see some pics we took going that way if you go to the day 25 post on the blog we did of our "Venture West" trip: http://venturewest-evan-anne.blogspot.ca

Based on advice from others, we did it east to west. Would do the same again. One reason is that we were more comfortable riding on the mountain side, rather than right on the edge. Regardless, it is an amazing experience.

Sure wish I was joining you all but not able to this time. Must deal with my wife's "significant" birthday and retirement event. It will be the first. MD since I joined VentureRiders that I will miss it. Wish you all a safe and enjoyable time.

There is a definite theme to the responses to your post Don and I would like to echo that theme. I also want to wish you and Eileen health and happiness which generally, money can't buy, as many have noted. My hat is off to you for sharing your situation with us. It really is like a family and you are definitely the patriarch.

Seems to me Don that you made a better decision even though it doesn't give you that same feeling.

Went to the Toronto Bike Show this past weekend. One of the older bikes there brought back memories. Put many miles on the same bike back in the 70's - did several trips over several years with my dad to the east coast and the Smokies. Almost made it to the top of Mount Washington before it stalled out due to high altitude. Memories!!

Just posted on the board. This is a great rally and we are looking forward to making it again this year. Last year, we rode home to Toronto by way of the Smoky Mountains and the Tail of the Dragon. Finally made it home with a little extra help from Jayceesfolly.

Like your thoughts Cowpuc. Here in Toronto, parking is free for bikes and Dogman tells me that bikers can also use the HOV (diamond) lane. Your thoughts are much better.

Great job Mark and by now you know the bike real well. Seems like a great bike to have around when you really want to enjoy a ride (a sentiment from a fellow 1st gen owner).