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Thursday 30 June 2011

23.Monty's Honda CBR1000RR- Repsol Edition,2011

Name: Monty
Age:38
Profession: Investment Banker
Motorcycle Club: G.O.D.S



1.When did you begin riding? Which was your first bike? Who gave you your first lessons?
I began riding even before I was eligible to get a Driving licenseTwo wheelers always caught my fancy.Guess I broke a few laws even before I turned 18. My First bike was Yamaha RX100.They dont build bikes like them anymore, ofcourse there are stringent laws on two strokes. The RX was light and so peppy. I think its a brilliant bike to learn on.Now think of it I never took a formal training or a lessons to ride bikes. All I had was a truck load of self confidence along with the falls that came my way thanks to the over confidence. These two parameter helped me master the art of biking.

2.What was your ride in college? How did that bike impact your life?
I drove RD 350 in high school and college. Needless to add RD 350 was quite a machine to own those days.It was every young boys wet dream. There are countless stories of how that bike impacted my life, starting from all the friends I've made to well, more interesting tales..

3.When did the superbike bug bite you? How many have you owned?
During my 1994 visit to US I got a chance to rode the massive Ninja 1100...It was after that the desire to own a super bike came on “TO DO BEFORE I DIE” list. I have owned 3 bikes so far…



4.What made you buy the 1000RR? How did you go about buying the bike?
I bought 1000rr mainly because I found out that “Repsol” edition was coming to India in 2011.I firmly believe that the blade looks best in these colours.The racing colours have so much heritage that I just had to get my hands on it.
I paid advance in 2010 May on Mothers Day and took the delivery on 1st March 2011. Good things happen to people who wait!

5.How long have you had it and how many KM have you clocked?
Six months and 2500 KMS

6.What’s the best part of the bike?
OH undoubtedly The colour combination “Repsol” and ofcourse the butter smooth motor that Honda makes



7.What can Honda do to improve the bike
I am quite content with the performance and feel Honda has done very well in improving the bike and making it more advanced over the years…


8.Narrate an interesting experience on the road

I have had few instances when people have signaled with their thumb for a ride (Hitch Hiking)…If only they knew what they could be in for !!!!!!Maybe one day if I'm in the mood I just might give someone a hitch. "EVIL Laugh!"


9.How about a no so exciting experience.
Its definitely the day when few guys in a sports car persisted on Racing……The bike won ofcourse…But I realized at the end it wasn’t worth it…Envy will always be around the corner…The idea is to never get distracted while driving, whatever be the reason.. I leant it the hardway and now Im truly not proud to say that I won that race. The street is not where you race. Period.

10.How do you answer these questions from the public” how much does it cost? What mileage do you get??
On pricing and mileage I ask them a counter question and usually go with their guess which is mostly wrong…For example Bike is worth 2 Lacs and Milage is 25 KMPL..Why argue with them..?

11.Who maintains the bike? How expensive is it to maintain it?
I do the basic cleaning with some help from my driver. I don’t feel it is expensive to maintain the bike mainly because the cost in factored in my budget.



12.Have you done any Mods on it?
No not yet…However I have ordered an exhaust “FMF”from U.S.I was fairly happy with leaving the bike as stock as it could be.. But when you ride with a group and most of them have interesting pipes, It makes you wanna get them too. Riding a bike which has a free flow exhaust certain makes the ride more involving and in India the pipes do ensure that the public makes way for you.

13.Tell us about your riding gear?
I ride with “ARAI” Helmet and Komine Apparel.



14.Where do you park you bike? How do you deal with public sitting/posing with you bike?
I am fortunate to have a covered parking and Bike is draped with two covers when parked.Else I'm not quite sure how i'll react. Its just way too expensive to be tampered with and our country can be rather mean to such indulgences.

15.What’s your advice to riders who aspire to buy a bike one day.
No adventure is worth dying for. Life is more precious. The paradox is that some of us need to put it at risk to really understand that…..Ride Safe….Drive without distraction….Enjoy the ride and be a life long mile muncher…

Monday 27 June 2011

22. Dr Cyres' BMW S1000RR ,2011

Name: Dr Cyres Mehta
Profession: Eye Surgeon
City: Mumbai
Motorcycle Club: PRS Boys




1.When was the first time you ever “threw a leg over the saddle”?
A.I had sampled a RD 350 in medical school circa 1993,but the first bike I ever rode for any distance (3000km) was in 2000 march on a harley sportster 883 in USA ,Eugene Oregon while completing my eye surgery superspecialisation.

2.Describe your experience.?
A)Three important attributes of biking were instilled in me that day. SPEED,FUN and The incredible sense of FREEDOM. I’ve never looked back ever since.

3.When would you say you got “hooked” on to biking and why?
A)It was in the year 2000.My boss in The USA had 9 Harleys, so as part of the training I used to go riding with him. The back roads of Oregon are superb and we would see a vehicle once in 15 or twenty minutes. Those rides truly got the biker in me out and I knew that I’ll always need to around a bike. Our roads in India however are a different story.

4.What was your first bike?
A ) A VTR 1000 Honda Firestorm in 2003 after I returned to Mumbai. Its quite a mighty bike I should say.

5.Was it your choice or just what you could afford?

A)I quite liked the torquey power plant and the (relatively) good value it represented as it was on the third owner by the time it reached me. Incidentally I still see this bike around Mumbai years later and it seems none the worse for wear! Talk about how well Honda build their machines



6.What bike(s) do you ride now?
A)As of now I have a BMW S 1000 RR.

7.Was it love at first sight or a product of long term research?
A)A bit of both. The design on the S1000RR is not to everyones taste. Not an easy bike to fall in love with at an instant purely based on the looks but the more you understand the bike especially once you mount her, you realize how close its to being perfect. BMW certainly has built the ultimate riding machine. Every Auto mag worth its salt have given it the thumbs up!

8.How many bikes have you gone through till the present one?
A)Lets see- After the Harley and the fire storm came a Honda CBR 929 on which I pulled my first (and only) pillion stoppie. After that came a CBR 1000 RR in 2005,then a KTM superduke 990(great fun!!),a Yamaha R1 2007, a GSXR-1000 2007 ,a Hayabusa 2008, a CBR1000 2009,GSXR 1000 2009 and finally the the BMW S 1000 RR . 11 bikes in total now.

9.What modifications have you made to your stock bike?
A)R&G crash protectors,front fork protectors,Pazzo Levers for adjustability and better feel,tinted double bubble zro gravity visor,TBR black slip on exhaust and a 2011 Troy Corser world superbike sticker kit. Its very rare that the PRS boys run a stock bike.

10.Have these modifications helped/improved ride and handling of your bike?
A)Absolutely.

11.How long have you had the bike for and how many kilometers have you clocked.
A)About 700 km ,in 3 months.

12.How often do you ride – daily, fortnightly, monthly or just occasionally?
A)Once or twice a week, and sometimes on Sundays for spin to Lonavla with the “PRS boys”,

13.What do you like most about your bike
A)Absolute feeling of control, NO wheelspin, Superb brakes the best there are, seamless acceleration and pin sharp handling. Its the consummate sports bike!



14.What don’t you like about your bike?
A)How do you not like something that’s already perfect. I really wish I could find something about it that I don’t like. But so far I can’t find anything. BMW has just created a winner.

15.What has been your most memorable ride till date?
A haven’t had any long rides as its been raining in Mumbai. Will definitely love to see how the bike handles on a long run though.

16.What’s the maximum three digit figure you’ve seen on your speedo?
A)Bikes still restricted to 9000 revs so its probably never gone beyond 180 kmph
However once its completely run in then I should be seeing a lot more on the speedo.

17.Who maintains your bike – cleaning, servicing, etc?
A)BMW Motorrad,(keki Mody) and Stuart Lima .


18.Have you faced any problems with your bike(s)?
A)No. I hope it remains that way.

19.What fuel/oil do you use and why?
A 97 octane (which in reality is closer to 93 probably)

20.Tell us about your riding gear (helmet, gloves and suits/jackets/pants and other protective gear)?
A.Jacket,boots,Arai Helmet,back protector,Armoured Pants.If finances prevent you from buying good protective gear please buy a cheaper bike and put the difference into the best gear.

21.Is your riding gear effective?

A)I should hope so!

22.Are you looking at changing your bike any time soon?
A)I believe I’ve got the best bike money can buy, until that changes I don’t think ill think of changing the bike.

23.If yes, what bike would you consider and why?
A ) since the best I can do is extract more out of this bike then maybe a WSBK spec power up kit for this bike (203 bhp)

24.What’s does your ideal weekend look like?
A)Ride ride then ride some more

25.What tips do you have for aspiring riders looking to pick up a super sports bike?
A)Ride safe, ride defensively, expect the worst from other road users, they will not disappoint you. Stay a little ahead of traffic and not slower than it. Ride within the braking capabilities of the motorcycle, and well within your own capabilities(usually much less than the bike’s) Never ride without your gear on!I see plenty of patients with motorcycle injuries. Typically they can ALL be avoided except broken bones with the right protective gear. Stay away from open face helmets (worse than useless),always wear gloves and boots.

Wednesday 22 June 2011

21. Sid's Ducati Monster 796, 2011

Name: Sid
Age:37
Profession:Architect
Motorcycle Club: G.O.D.S



1.When was the first time you ever “threw a leg over the saddle”? What was the feeling like?
The first time I threw a leg over the saddle was in class six on our Bajaj 150, though I didn’t take it anywhere but still generated the sound effects. Few years later, I had my first ride on it. The feeling was just exhilarating.
Before I boarded the scooter for the first time, I knew there was a clutch, accelerator and brake. It was also clear what their function was, however when on the saddle for the first time, the theory didn’t mean much. I tested each of the three items and ended up with a wheelie, accelerating so fast that needed my feet on ground to keep balance and then the brake when I almost popped in front.
The second time was far more controlled, and I started to enjoy the wind on my face and hair. This feeling was liberating. Ever since then I have been fascinated with riding the two-wheeled stallions.

2.What was your first bike? Was it your choice or just what you could afford?
My first bike was a Suzuki Shogun. This was the incentive for qualifying thought a competitive exam into a professional course. Yup the bike was my choice as I needed something with a good pickup and looks! I still remember, the run-in period I completed within 8 days.

3.What bike(s) do you ride now?
I ride a Ducati Monster 796.

4.Was it love at first sight or a product of long term research?
The Monster has fascinated me since it was launched about 10 years ago, however the choice to own one was completely logical.
Since January last year, I had been searching for the right bike within a specific riding style, budget and performance. It was imperative that the bike has an upright riding posture, powerful, sexy and nimble in traffic.
After reviewing several bikes, the choices narrowed down to Honda CB1000r, Harley Davidson 883R and Ducati Monster 796.
After riding the Monster 1100 at the showroom, it was clear I didn’t need to look any further. This was the bike I was looking for.

5.How many bikes have you gone through till the present one? Do list them.
Up till now I have ridden Bajaj 150, Suzuki Shogun, RD 350, Pulsar 180

6.How long have you had this bike for and how many kilometers have you clocked.
I have had this bike for the last 6 months. It has clocked about 3500 km


7.How often do you ride – daily, fortnightly, monthly or just occasionally?
I ride about 2-3 days in a week.

8.What do you like most about your bike?
I love my bike as a total package. It is fast, nimble and sexy.

9.what don’t you like about your bike?
Nothing.

10.What modifications have you made to your stock bike? Have these modifications helped/improved ride and handling of your bike?
I have added a K&N air filter, Akrapovic Exhaust, Rizoma Fender Eliminator and Rizoma LED Turn Indicators. The air filter and exhaust have improved the performance of the bike. The indicator and fender eliminator have extenuated the naked look.
Simply speaking the Monster just got meaner.


11.Which is the best road in Delhi to ride?
There are quiet a few stretches in Delhi where I enjoy riding. To name a few, it would be DND via Barahpulla Stretch through till Greater Noida, Ridge Road & NH8 through to Gurgaon. GT road and Shanti Path.

12.Tell us about an interesting experience on the road.
Like all super bikers, I have also had my share of interesting experiences on the road. Out of these, the following two stand out.
It was the week after I had taken delivery of the bike and was crossing the Gurgaon Toll, the Guard at the toll approached me with curiosity and asked the ususal, kitne ki hai, kitna deti hai and then konsi bike hai, I answered most in questions directly and then when I told him it is a Ducati, he was surprised and said “I didn’t know there was a bike for Dakaiti (Dacoits)”. Till such time I also never realized how close was Ducati to Dakaiti… and thought it would need a Dakaiti to get the premium Ducati Desmocedici!!
The second was a guy who followed me all through Chanakya puri in a Honda CRV probably filming the bike. Soon at one of the round-abouts he pulled up and asked me to just let him hear the sound of the engine, as we drove together, him with his windows down. I did reciprocate his request and then moved on.

13.Do you ride in a club? Tell us about your club..
I ride with G.O.D.S. (Group of Delhi Superbikers), a club led by Dr. Arun (Speed) Thareja. A fraternity of like minded riders. We ride every Sunday morning.

14.What has been your most memorable ride till date?
My most memorable ride was in class 11th when a very close friend of mine bought 2 RD 350’s and four of us rode from my school to home a total stretch of about 7.5 km in 12 minutes at 9 am.

15.What’s the maximum three digit figure you’ve seen on your speedo?
Little over 200.


16.Who maintains your bike – cleaning, servicing, etc?
I myself clean my bike. The last service was at the Ducati dealership. The next one is still 6 months away.

17.Have you faced any problems with your bike(s)? If yes how did you managed to rectify it?
No problems till now. Fingers and toes crossed for the future.

18.What fuel/oil do you use ?
I use Shell / Motul synthetic oils and Speed 97 Octane fuel.

19.Tell us about your riding gear (helmet, gloves and suits/jackets/pants and other protective gear)?
Helmet - AGV and Shark, Jacket – Ducati & Tour Master, Gloves - Fox & Dainese, Knee and Elbow guards - Fox.

20.Are you looking at changing your bike any time soon? If yes, what bike would you consider and why?
No chance, I am going to hold on this one for some time to come.

21.What’s does your ideal weekend look like?
A nice ride in morning, breakfast with G.O.D.S, lunch with family, siesta, evening with friends and Movie / Dinner with family….

22.How do you answer the following questions:
How much does it cost? Pass…………



23.What mileage do you get?
Actually close to 20 kmpl. To public on traffic signal: Huh…………

24.Are you guys going for a race?
Naah…………

25.What tips do you have for aspiring riders looking to pick up a super sports bike?
There a lot of good bikes to choose from, pick yours diligently.
Once this is done, ride responsibly as a lot of lives depend on you.

Monday 20 June 2011

20.Hemant's Victory Vision

Name: Hemant Sahai
Profession: Lawyer
Motorcycle Club: Free Riders Motorcycle Club
City: Delhi


1. When did you first ride a bike and who gave you your first lessons of biking?
I rode my first motorcycle when I was 15 or 16 years old - an army bullet ......... My Father being a Fauji, I was always fascinated with the beautiful Fauji bullets and we saw lots of them in the cantonments. The young Army officers always had Yezdi bikes - to distinguish themselves from the Fauji Bullets.

In those days, the choice was only between a Bullet, Yezdi or Rajdoot. The Bullet had a somewhat tougher image being associated with the armed forces and police, therefore, for a young person - college kid or young fauji officer, it had to be a Yezdi - which had the image of being a "cool" bike.

For me, the choice was always clear - the Bullet was rugged, tough and Macho. I was always fascinated by the mechanical compelxity of the Bullet compared to the Yezdi. I was always convinced I was going to ride a Bullet one day ..............

Many years later, one of my elder cousin brothers who was a doctor with the army, bought a brand new Bullet and when I saw it, it was love all over again. That's when I resolved to get one for myself.


2. What was your ride when you were in college? how did you get your hands on it?
The first bike that I owned was a Bullet 350 - I still have the bike, though of course it has gone through multiple avatars and iterations. Currently its a Batmobile ..... All black, twin exhaust, low slung and mean looking. At different times it has been through war paint, camo paint ...... And its still evergreen.

I got the bike when I was in Law School ..... Rather late, but the environment at that time was very different. This was 1985 .....

Earlier, during college days, I used to borrow a Yezdi from one of the lucky guys in my hostel who owned the bike. Owning a bike in those days was a rare thing. Not only was it expensive, bikes were not easily available. This is the times of the Licence Raj ..... Bullet, Yezdi and Rajdoot were the only bikes available, one had to book a new bike and wait for years for the booking to mature and second hand bikes were not easily or readily available or were more expensive than new bikes ....... Strange considering today's scenario.

Getting my first Bullet was quite a challenge and required great perseverance from my side. When I started the topic of owning a bike, there was all round condemnation and dissuasion. My father was non committal and mom was not encouraging. My father's elder brother also got into the act when he heard I wanted a Bullet and tried very hard to dissuade me ...... "Bullet is a Doodhwala's bike ..... Get a scooter instead" I of course laughed at him.

By that time, I was very clear what I wanted to do with my bike. I had already planned long trips in the Hills. My inspiration was this article that I had read in a National Geographic when I was in Class 12th .... Riding a Harley thorugh Alaska. That was my dream, that was my goal and therefore, I realised very early, I was a cruiser guy. I was looking forward to riding a big, strong bike through rugged and difficult terrain, the Himalayas to start with.

I bought the 1980 bullet from one of my cousins ...... After months of convincing my father to give me the Rs 11,000 needed for it. That was a lot of money at that time and being in college I couldn't even dream of earning that kind of money in those days. Just to put things in perspective - this was in mid 1985 ............... Most of the youngsters today cannot even relate to this I am sure.

Finally the bike arrived, and my travels and adventures too.




3. what does a bike mean to you when you were 21 VS when you're 45

NOt much has changed .... The bike was a means of adventure for me when I was 21 and today it still remains the same. My bike was never a commuter bike for me - though of course I did use it as a daily commuter even when I started working. By the time I started working, the market was flooded with the new Japanese 100 CC bikes, but I never switched to one. I held on to my Bullet 350, and drove it to office every day till much later when I finally bought myself my first 4 wheeler - which by the way was a Tatamobile pick up truck. The pick up truck was another chapter to my adventure days ...... I was the only guy driving it in town and I drove it to the High Court (I am a lawyer and worked in the Delhi High Court those days) everyday.

Being a biker has been and will continue to be a reflection of my personality ..... risk taker and non conformist

I bring some of these qualities to everyday life and to my work place too.

4. how many bikes do you own and if you have to pick a favourite what would it be?
I own 10 bikes today - 4 different Bullets including my first Bullet 350, Bullet Machismo 500, the original Bullet 500 and the new Bullet 500CC classic.

In addition, I own 2 Harleys (Fat Boy, Night Rod special), Valkyrie (1960's vintage), Honda Rune, Triumph Rocket (2300 CC, world's largest production bike) and Victory Vision.

Each one of my bikes is unique and is a classic in its own right. While I may ride different bikes for different occasions, I cant single out any one as my favourite.

The Victory Vision is comfortable and ideal for long rides (I have driven it to Jaisalmer, up in the Hills and long distance cruises on several occasions).

The Nightrod is quick and loud and beautiful to ride.

The Triumph Rocket has a lot of torque and is one of the most incredible bikes one can ride.

The Rune - very quick, very good looking - has been described as James Bond in a Tuxedo. I have hit 260 Kmph on this bike on several occasions.

The Fat Boy is a classic and has a very different feel. It is the Bullet of US - it can be modified, chopped re done in many different ways - yet the ride experience is unique.

The Valkyrie was the supercruiser of the 1960's and its classic shape and large dimensions are a sight to behold.


5. How did you come to know about the Vision and how did it get to India?
I got the bike through a friend of mine who lives in US and also in India - he is a fellow biker, Laxman, who rides a Fat Boy. I first saw pictures of it and then researched it on the net .... It was love at first sight.

6. tell us a little about the Vision

The Victory Vision is the ultimate cruiser in my view.
Longer than a Maruti 800, it weighs in at 625 Kgs - its a beast but is surprisingly smooth and easy to handle

Loaded with technology - ABS, Cruise Control, GPS, built in music (radio, I pod connectivity) heated seats and grips ...... The list is long. Only thing missing is airconditioning but this was built for US which is essentially a cold country.

1800 CC V - 4 stroke twin engine - has a beautiful thump and the rugged feel of a V Twin. Somehow the in-line engines cannot provide the same experience (even though they are quicker).

Surprisingly maneuverable despite its bulk and dimensions, I have done knee scraping leans on hair pin bends up in the hills.

Being a V Twin engine speed is not its forte - rather endurance is what its all about. Notwithstanding that, I can consistently clock 160 kmph for long miles, without any signs of engine exhaustion or tiring. The 1800 CC twin block throws out consistently high torque and 90 plus BHP.

The 6 speed gearbox connects to a belt driven final drive

Its a stunning looker - guaranteed eye balls


7. whats the best attribute of the bike?
Its very comfortable to ride and is surprisingly agile


8. whats the part of the bike you'd like to change/improve?
Perhaps a more powerful engine. Remember I ride a 2300CC bike too


9. If she leans to the side can you pick it up on your own, or do you need help?
It is designed to be lifted by one person - if it leans over, it will rest on two aesthetically designed pegs, and one person can lean against the bike with his back and push it up - requires a lot of effort though and multiple hands will always be helpful. Fortunately, so far I have not had the occasion to test this.


10.how do the public react when they see the bike?
There is a medley of reactions - the first is obviously awe at the size and dimensions of the bike, followed by joy at seeing something so unique in real life and then a string of questions. People want to touch it, some brave souls also want to sit on it.


When I drive past, people scream out, beg me to stop for a moment to be able to see the bike closer, and of course people in other vehicles start chasing the bike, and drive up close to get a better look.



11.how do you answer the following
What mileage do you get?
I answer truthfully - 10 - 12 KMPL



12.Whats the price of the bike?
I avoid the question and encourage them to ask about its technical specs. This is a USD 25,000 bike in the US

13. Tell us about your club. when and how did you join it?

I am part of a fantastic group of Bikers - we call ourselves the FRMC - Freeriders Motorcycle Club. We are around 20 Bikers with some very interesting bikes. While primarily we are a cruiser bike group, we do have some fantastic sports bikers.

I have been part of FRMC for the last 5 years and have met some great people in the Club. Bikers live by a certain creed which they tend to follow even in their lives beyond biking. Its a fact that only like minded people tend to get together and stay together. We have seen several people join the club but not last very long. Today FRMC consists of a core set of bikers who are committed to biking and we all have something in common - passion for bikes being one of them. The members of FRMC come from very different backgrounds but are bound by the Club.


14.whats the best roads in delhi/ India to take the Vision

Clearly the Vision comes into its elements with long uncluttered roads. So rides in Rajasthan have been the most memorable on this bike.

The drive to Jaisalmer through Bikaner or Jodhpur is by far the most dramatic in terms of road quality, terrain and drive experience. Similarly, the drive to Deogarh/Udaipur is also stunning.

My favourite ride continues to be in the hills where too the Vision has performed impeccably - the road to Nainital from Corbett and thereafter from Nainital to Mukteshwar is my personal favourite.





15.have you run into any electrical/mechanical troubles? if yes how did you rectify it?
So far thankfully no major faults. There have been a few minor issues with the brake system once - it required bleeding and topping up of brake oil. No major electrical or mechanical faults - the bike is built tough.

Once I hit a large piece of rock which had fallen off a truck and was in the middle of the road - the bike was literally airborne for some time and when I landed the bike was rock solid and stable. But the front rim had busted. I had to order a new rim from the US - but that was not such a problem and replacing it was also not an issue.



Generally the regular maintenance is hassle free and things like filters and oil changes are not a problem.



16.who maintains the bike- service etc?
I have a wonderful engineer who looks after all my bikes - he has read up the technical and workshop manuals of the bikes and is generally very good at identifying faults and rectifying them efficiently.


17. Where do you park the bike?
At home in my driveway, with my other bikes


18. Do people fiddle with it when you park it? how do you tackle this?
Yes people will touch the bike, climb onto it and fiddle around with switches. One generally tries to find secure parking where at least an attendant is available and in any event, when the FRMC bikers are out on a long trip, we have back up cars with us and the drivers look after the bikes when parked.

Generally I don't have a problem looking at the bike and getting to savour the experience, the concern only is that if not supervised then people tend to get carried away and they may either drop the bike or damage some part or worse, injure themselves. So I generally allow people to check out the bike under supervision.


19 Decribe a memorable incident on the Vision
The drive into Lansdowne - its a small village and all the superbikes descending into the village was a surreal experience - the local people and children obviously felt that aliens had descended into their village. The Vision was of course the mothership and practically the whole village had come down to see the bikes.



20. Which is the best cruiser for Indian conditions

All cruisers by definition are large bikes, and therefore, my advice is that every person need to figure out the bike that he is comfortable with. The appropriate bike is one that a person is comfortable riding and maneuvering. Thereafter, the so called Indian conditions don't mean anything. I have ridden the Vision in very crowded and congested areas and have managed it very well. Ultimately, the pleasure of riding a cruiser is out on the highway and therefore, it should be big, heavy and powerful. This ensures a comfortable ride for long distances ............. Go out and burn the miles.




21.Whats the max speed you've seen on the speedo of the Vision
The maximum speed that I have clocked on the Vision is 170 Kmph - but it can do 160 KMph for miles without a break


22. Is there any other bike on your radar now?


The Boss Hoss - 8000 cc V8 engine.


23. tell us about your riding gear
Very particular about riding gear - one cannot afford to cur corners on this.

Helmet - I have several but all of them are full face for protection not just in a potential crash but also for riding comfort at high speeds so one doesn't lose attention and control on the bike. I have KBC and Joe Rocket Helmets.

Riding Jacket - Full Armour - Joe Rocket leather, Harley Davidson Leather.

When its too hot - separate armours for elbows and forearms, full body Armour

Gloves - leather, armoured on knuckles, fingers and wrists

Trousers - biking trousers with built in knee and hip Armour from Joe Rocket. When wearing jeans - separate knee and shin armours

Footwear - Joe rocket ankle high riding boots with built in Armour. Usually I use leather, knee high horse riding boots or fighter aircraft pilot boots - they are stylish and provide an old world - WWII fighter pilot image.



24. Can you customise the vision or is it already loaded
This one is pretty much loaded -I changed the exhausts to flow through, gun shot exhausts that are louder. I am planning to add a reverse gear - which is standard in later models but can be added on to the older models.

25. whats you advice to aspiring riders

Get onto a bike and experience it first hand. Its never too late to get onto one.

Love your bike and don't have any preconceived notions about any bike - each is unique and all are wonderful in their own ways.

Monday 13 June 2011

19. Alfred's Suzuki GSX-R Hayabusa 2010

Name: Alfred Adebare AKA SNIPES
Age:
Profession: Corporate Law
Motorcycle Club:G.O.D.S



1.When was the first time you ever “threw a leg over the saddle”?
I must have been about 12 years old. I hitched a ride with a friend who “hired” the bike for 3 laps around a football field. I didn’t get to ride a bike on my own until much later 

2.Describe your experience.
My first ride alone was fearful to say the least. I had no riding experience whatsoever. I thought since I could drive a car, heck, I could ride a bike. That crazy logic didn’t work. I remember grabbing the brakes in a death grip and getting dumped on the road fast. But I also remember the brief rush of adrenaline and sense of flight just before crashing.

3.When would you say you got “hooked” on to biking and why?
I have a cousin who was a keen biker. He would ride everyday and, of course, I admired him, like everybody else. He once gave me a ride on his Kawasaki 1000 – that was a different high. The rush of the wind had tears streaming down my face and my heart was pounding about a foot away but then I knew I had to get me one of those.

4.What was your first bike?
It’s ironic. In 2001, I was hospitalized for work related stress and the doctor prescribed lots of rest, exercise, etc. I got out of hospital and immediately bought a Kawasaki ZX 9R as a stress buster. That was my first bike.

5.Was it your choice or just what you could afford?
In those days it was what was available in the market. I was fortunate to come across the ZX 9R on short notice. It was an excellent machine that I kept for about 3 years.

6.What bike(s) do you ride now?

Suzuki Hayabusa GXR1300



7.Was it love at first sight or a product of long term research?
I have to admit that it had nothing to do with love. Again, it had to do with what is legally available in India in the supersport category and in a reasonable price range. I settled on the Busa after a lot of research between the Busa, the Blade and the Gixxer. I didn’t consider the R1 since they wouldn’t allow a test ride and the Ducati 1198 was way too expensive.

8.How many bikes have you gone through till the present one?
Just 2

9.What modifications have you made to your stock bike?
I changed the stock cans to Vance & Hines CS1. Other than the cans, other modifications are cosmetic – chrome bar ends, chrome reservoir oil caps, gold plated front pegs, frame crash sliders, and swing arm slider spools.

10.Have these modifications helped/improved ride and handling of your bike?
Personally, I don’t think the Busa needs any improvement. The Vance & Hines cans announce my arrival much before I am seen.



11.How long have you had the bike for and how many kilometers have you clocked.
About 11 months now. Clocked about 4,000km

12.How often do you ride – daily, fortnightly, monthly or just occasionally?
I would ride every day if I could but traffic is too chaotic. I ride mostly Sundays.

13.What do you like most about your bike
I know a lot has been written about the Busa but the white Busa looks magnificent (beauty is in the eye of the beholder). It reminds me of a white horse, charging down on you in traffic and I am the knight in shining armour 

14.What don’t you like about your bike?
Nothing.

15.What has been your most memorable ride till date?
GOD’s Republic Day ride – January 26, 2003 – on NH8 Jaipur Highway. About 26 bikes. Very light traffic. Hardly any trucks. Tearing down the highway in formation, the roar of the bikes was deafening and awesome. Incredible feeling too.



16.What’s the maximum three digit figure you’ve seen on your speedo?
260. I thought I was in a sci-fi movie.

17.Who maintains your bike – cleaning, servicing, etc?
I love cleaning and polishing my bike. Servicing is done by the authorized Suzuki dealer.

18.Have you faced any problems with your bike?
Thankfully none. Otherwise Suzuki will be hearing from my lawyer 

19.What do you recommend regarding maintenance?Do your weekly checks - tyre pressure, tyre tread depth, oil levels, petrol, electronics, seals and most importantly the brakes and discs. Remember Delhi is too dusty so keep your chains clean as well. If your bike is parked out in the open, get a cover. Always keep your bike clean.

20.Tell us about your riding gear (helmet, gloves and suits/jackets/pants and other protective gear)?
Helmets: Arai RX7, Caberg
Jackets: RS Taichi Jacket, Speed and Strength Under the Radar Jacket,
Gloves: RS Taichi Gloves, Alpinestar Gloves,
Pants: Alpinestar Air-Flo pants
Boots: Alpinestar Octane Riding boots

And of course, my deadly smile.

21.Is your riding gear effective?

I hope I don’t have to crash test it but I’d say it is effective against the elements. Good quality gear is always recommended in winter or summer. You never know when you take a spill.

22.Are you looking at changing your bike any time soon?
No. My wife supports me fully on this decision.



23.If yes, what bike would you consider and why?
If I were to consider any other bike, it has to be the Kawasaki Ninja ZX 10R or the BMW S1000RR.

24.What tips do you have for aspiring riders looking to pick up a super sports bike?

Get your bike and lets ride!!! On a serious note, you need to be aware that riding involves certain elements within your control, for example, knowing what your bike likes and doesn’t like, and others that are outside your control, for example, stray cattle/pedestrians/pebbles. Combine these elements with the power bottled up in these bikes, and you know you need to be extra careful when riding. Skill counts for a lot but safe riding is paramount.

Thursday 9 June 2011

18. Shiv's Suzuki M1800 Intruder

Name: Shiv Raj Singh
Age:
Profession: Travel Industry
Motorcycle Club: F.R.M.C ( Free Rider Motorcycle Club)



1.When was the first time you ever “threw a leg over the saddle”?what was the feeling like?

I was about 9 years old when I slid behind the wheels of a car and within 4 months was manoeuvring a 1 ton army truck by the wheel myself. My feet wouldn’t reach the pedals hence I was given access to the wheel alone. At the age of 12 I was riding the Enfield. Dad being in the army did have its priviledges. The Enfield is a very heavy bike and for a young kid it was show-down time.

2. What was your first bike? Was it your choice or just what you could afford?
It was the Kawasaki Bajaj RTZ. My own choice. I still remember my Dad shelling out some Rs 15,000 for it way back 1987. For that money he could have done plenty otherwise. But he did it as that brought a huge smile on his Son’s face.

3.What bike(s) do you ride now?

The M1800 Intruder and The Hayabusa

4.Was it love at first sight or a product of long term research?

Well my first super bike was the Suzuki Boulevard (Intruder in India). Having grown up watching the Harleys as the most meanest-biggest machines. It was obvious to research the Harley. But their prices were horrendously high, given the fact that duty would need to be paid, besides the freight and freight Insurance. That turned out to be a blessing. I had heard of Superbikers in Delhi, but they were like the wind, you knew they were there, but had no clue how to go about reaching them or sourcing a bike. Then the name GODS fell on my ears. Im talking way back in 2002-2003.. But the GODS were as elusive as your super stars and why not as well. They were setting standards to modern superbiking in the Country. So the GODS remained elusive till 2007 for me. Eventually fell upon the name of KRP and then some dealer at Mumbai. But the story was that all the bikes were grey market ones, so I stayed off from the deals. I then ventured to Mumbai to see a Kawasaki Vulcan, something I had wanted as that had the look of a Harley and the power of Jap bike. There too it turned out that the papers were not in proper order. It was here that I was also shown an Intruder, which at first look didn’t satisfy my innerself, as it didn’t have the making of a Cruiser. Cruisers for me at that stage meant the classical old school time machines. I was soon to be enlightened. I was on a Business trip overseas in May-June 2007 that a good friend Rajiv informed me that the Government has laxed the regulations on the import of bikes. Anything above an 800 cc could now be legally imported. So I took my return flight from Europe back to India via Dubai. I went to Harley showroom, it was still expensive and so I ventured into a Yamaha showroom and had finally set my eyes on a V Star. Checked amount to be paid, freight time and charges, clearances procedures etc etc. Came back next day to make the payments, unfortunately (fortunately for me tho..) the driver, a brilliant Paki fellow, who knew the sands of Dubai like the palm of his hand or the wrinkles on his face, took a turn too early to exit and we ended up just on the side of the showroom and from there it was a one way drive. So I asked him to park and said I would happily walk. As I approached the showroom from one side there was this Suzuki showroom there staring at me and I said, what the heck, I know what im buying, lets see what these losers have to offer. And lo there was the Intruder staring at me. I sat on it and I was transformed. The Yamaha has just been beaten in sheer strength and beauty of the machine from Suzuki. I called my wife Payal. (God works in mysterious ways). She was ecstatic (for the fact that I had decided on what to buy and was happy for me more than my choice of the bike). But I had to take a clearance from my son Eklavya, all of 6 years as to what colour it would be. He demanded a Red and the deal was sealed. I had the dream of my life coming true. This was the first bike (to my knowledge) to be duty paid and legally bought in, as the imports had just been started by the Government. The next 5 days were gonna be hell, as I couldn’t sleep till the air freight machine arrived. .




5How many bikes have you gone through till the present one? Do list them.
Kawasaki Bajaja RTZ, Enfiled 500, Enfiled 500, Yezdi, Enfiled 500, Suzuki intruder, Hayabusa and finally another Hayabusa.

6.How many kilometers have you clocked?
Around 22,000 kms

7. How often do you ride – daily, fortnightly, monthly or just occasionally?
If the weathers good I ride to the Gym Tue-Sat. Sunday is the club ride. Summer time is mostly a Sunday ride or max a midweek evening ride. Sunday is by far the most important day of our lives. I know a lot of riders who plan their work around a Sunday at Delhi with their clubs. This is the de-stresser.

8.What do you like most about your bike?
Its the most powerful Sports cruiser ever. When you ride beside it you realise its like a comet coming at you with sheer speed and strength. Its lines are amazing. Great Torque so easy accellaration.

9.What do you not like much on the bike?
handling her on broken roads can be a nightmare because of its sheer weight and rear Tyre size


10. What modifications have you made to your stock bike? Have these modifications helped/improved ride and handling of your bike?
I’ve got Cobra pipes (fish swept pipes). I’ve got an alarm system loaded on it. I’m using an oversize 250 rear Tyre for challenging the bike on curves and leans. I’ve put air checkers on the tyre valves, so I know if the tyre pressures low or normal, so it avoids regular checkups at the Air Station. I’m also using Ride on solution in both Tyres, so that while riding tyres don’t blast and tear up due to a Puncture situation. So long as you ride, you are fine and dnt have to stop for repairs. I’ve infact rideen with a nail in my rear tyre for over 6 months, with just having to fill up air every 2 weeks, nothing more. I’ve also changed the foot-pegs on the bikes and also the handle grips. I’m using after market designer stuff, which adds to the full chrome finish on the bike and makes it look modern and up there.

11.Which is the best road in Delhi to ride?
Within the city the embassy area is excellent for good leans and stuff and so are the ridge roads. For some good straight lines you have the Rajpath. But if you are early riser (which all riders are) all roads are good, open and empty when we are riding.



12.Tell us about an interesting experience on the road..

There was this one guy with his girl in a car at Saket. And I didn’t realise that they were chasing me. I slowed down at a breaker and this guy comes screeching up my ass. He almost banged into me. We exchanged words. He got out of the car and I said to myself, this is it, this is definitely coming down to fists and im the last one to fight anyway, but when it comes to my Bike, theres no questions asked, you go for it. The guy gets out of the car and I say are you insane, what were you doing. He says, I love big bikes, I wanted to catch up and ask you if I o ride the bike. I didn’t know whether to break his face or laugh at him. I made him understand that he had made a mistake and could have caused a bad crash. He said sorry, but still insisted on his riding for a short time. Which guys in all earnestness meant, I could take his woman and his car for a ride on the bike. I think we can all drop our imaginations here. I took off...with the Bike Ofcourse...you dirty minds !!!!!!!!

13.Do you ride in a club? Tell us about your club..
When I started riding the Boulevard, I thought I was the God of riding and nobody possessed a bike bigger and meaner than mine. The others were mere mortals. I was soon to be awakened and rudely so. I soon met a Bunch of cruisers. I was’nt the only one with a 1800 cc engine under my sweet arse. But then riding as a Team was even more fun. Being a hardcore Cruiser in my heart, we set about the FRMC Club or the Free Riders Motor cycle Club. Yes a Bunch of us got together and started this Club. Which is very active and alive. This is the Family you didn’t have. So we are all now very close and stick together. Earlier friends have taken a back seat to the new ones. Trips are planned keeping this in mind. Albeit a Cruiser Club in its soul, we do have many a sports superbikes in our Club aswell.



14. What has been your most memorable ride till date?
The one that comes up straight on recollection is the Rajasthan one. We did Delhi-Bikaner-Jaisalmer-Jodhpur-Delhi. We did some 2050 kms in 4 days time. 12 riders and families besides.

15.What’s the maximum three digit figure you’ve seen on your speedo?
I’ve just managed a 230 on my Intruder and a 260 on my Hayabusa. I dnt think I have the Balls for anything more. Maybe a 270 max. But I wouldn’t wanna risk it to prove something. Im happy with my performance.

16.Who maintains your bike – cleaning, servicing, etc?
I clean my bike my self. If its really dirty I let the Guard clean her up and I add to the finishing touches. Servicing I give to the company, so I can take their happiness, should anything go wrong.

17.Have you faced any problems with your bike(s)? If yes how did you managed to rectify it?
None so far in any of the bikes I rode. 2 Punctures and 1 clutch wire change on the Intruder that’s all.

18. What fuel/oil do you use and why?
Fuels 97 Octane and fully synthetic oil. Better lubrication and no knocking on the machine. Keeps it cooler.

19.Tell us about your riding gear (helmet, gloves and suits/jackets/pants and other protective gear)?
Jackets Ride Icon. Gloves aswell. Helmets Sharx and Nolan with integrated Blue-tooth technology. Trousers AXO . Shoes AXO

20.Are you looking at changing your bike any time soon? If yes, what bike would you consider and why?
Not looking for a change now. But if a 2nd bike
is to happen I would like to try a Litre bike.

21.What’s does your ideal weekend look like?
Sat morning Gym. Then at home. Catch a Movie with the Family or take Son to some Kids Joint to play around. Catch up with friends for dinner on Sat evenings. Sun A M ride. Then back home to sleep. Sunday evenings is Family time.




22.How do you answer the following questions?

How much does it cost?
A fellow rider Ken once told a fellow asking me the same thing. He told him that I bought I Suzuki from the back doors of a Yamaha showroom as they were selling really cheap. But hey don’t say I told you....hahahahahahaha.


23. What mileage do you get?
I tell them honestly that I get 12

24. Are you guys going for a race?
I say no...Cause then they would want to follow and catch up.


25. What tips do you have for aspiring riders looking to pick up a super sports bike?


Dance like no ones watching, sing like you don’t care, laugh like theres no tomorrow and Ride so as to be back in the saddle again tomorrow. (watch the rear view mirror for fools, your future depends on it)

Monday 6 June 2011

17. Manish's Ducati GT1000 2010

Name : Manish Rajput
Age: 40
profession : self employed
Motorcycle club :G.O.D.S





1.what do you call your bike and why ?

a. well GT Sports Classic is good enough name and you could get in
trouble for giving it an exotic name ( don't want to moan that name at
night do we ).

2. Is she your first bike ? if not what did you own before this ?


a. I had hero honda cd 100 as my first, and then when I konked it off
I then brought a suzuki samurai, but at that time the biker was
always in heart and career was in the mind and also finances were a
issue then, but the fire kept on burning and after a gap of about 17
years without touching a bike went to the showroom and picked myself
this timeless beauty, and soon after the itch got so bad that within a
month I brought another indian classic the royal enfield 350 for the
diffrent kind of trip ( the gruelling ones)

3. Was it love at first sight or a product of long term research?

a. well kind of both, two things I had in mind .one I wasn't a spring
chicken anymore and also I had to have something less radical for my
age and also it should be able to carry two comfortably, I checked out
the busas and the intruders as I was not interested in any grey market
bikes coz you know why, but a chance visit to the ducati showroom and
one look and nothing else made any sense.got hitched. it had
everything i needed and more lovely specs, timeless looks and the most
important the exclusivity as there are no more coming and I have one
of the only two in india....




4.Explain what went through your mind during the months before you
managed to lay your hands on it?


a. months? this was over in days and I got it before someone else
changed my mind and I am happy I did this, but yes the feeling was
like getting a sony walkman for the 14th birthday ( in 1984 ) but had
to wait till the morning to get your hand on it.

5. First experience and impression when you saw her all gleaming and polished.

a.Similar to being married but still waiting for the all the stupid rasams to get
over... the wait for the insurance cover note was like two long
hours, and then finally when I got it my worst nightmare came
true..did I mention I did not even take a test ride, well when the
bike was handed over to me outside the showroom... I simply could not
ride it and I mean that.. after 17 long year if you straddle a bike
and that too a ducati... I cannot explain the feeling ... just spent
close to 14 lakhs and now I cannot ride it.... help soon came in the
form of Mr. Jaydee and he gave me a crash course of riding a
superbike in 10 minutes the key words, ride only in the first and max
second gear only, untill you get the hang of it, and belive me when I
say this no one can ever forget swimming if he has swam before no
matter how much the time diffrence in between, and within twenty
minutes i was back..

6. How long have you had the bike for and how many kilometers have you clocked.

a. close to a year and about 7500 kms.

7. What the best attribute of the bike.?

a. "She's Got the Looks" I keep humming this number from roxette, if
you know what I mean, and it holds its own among the seas of busas,
R1's and other superbikes.

8. What’s irritates you most about the bike?

a. refueling, I mean frequent refuelling, tank is only approx 13
litres and does about 230 kms only in one tank.

9. What part of the bike would you change and why?
a. absolutely nothing at all, you do not tamper with the Monalisa.

10. What does your riding gear comprise of and which brand suits you the most?
a. I wouldn’t compromise on safety, hence I have two exactly same
Nolan Casey stoner series Helmets, riding gloves and the beauty of
this bike is that you can ride it withing the real hardcore driving
gears, helmet, gloves and a regular leather jacket ( calvin kline &
tommy ) is just fine.

11. If you’d cheat on your bike, with which would it be?

a. Well it would be Harley' night rod, anyway i am already cheating
her with my bullet 350 but she dosen't seem to mind, coz she knows
she'll be always number 1.

12. Is she girlfriend material or long term wife material?
a. till death do us part.

13. Do you believe in cosmetic customization, If yes then what have
you done on it?


a. absolutely not, I want to grow old together looking exactly the way she is.


15. Is she high on maintenance? Have you run into any
electrical/mechanical issues?


a. Not really, a general service according to the manual, when you
have a ducati high -low maintance is not an issue.

16. What do you feed her? (what oil what petrol?)
a. whatever best available, she isn't fussy and consumes 97 octane to
normal unleaded with equal appetite.

17. Tell me about the day she made you feel like a superstar!
a. one of these days I was coming back to gurgaon from our GODS sunday
rides and there were two guys and two girls in a silver SLK
convertible and their jaws dropped, and of course when the light
turned green, you know what happens....... man its a high.



18. What does your wife/girl friend think about her?
a. Don't know for sure but they both behave properly towards her.

20. What’s the maximum three digit figure you’ve seen on the Speedo?
a. Well thats depends on the Rider and in my case I did about
220kmph, but I am sure if it is Captain Vineets hand on the handle then it should be around 270kmph maybe,
but top speed is not relevant if i wanted speed i would have gone for
busa or Gxr. I am more kind of tour guy then a speed guy, but believe
me ducati's give the best balls massage you can ever get, ask any
ducati owner.

Thursday 2 June 2011

16. Dr Paul's Harley-Davidson Nightster,2010

Name: Dr Hemanth Paul
Age:51
Profession:Doctor
City:Delhi
Motorcycle club: Brotherhood Riding Club



1.When did you first put your legs over a bike, which one was it and who gave you your first lessons?
I was a 13 or 14 year old, when I used to spend my summer vacations with my cousins in Mysore> Mysore was a beautiful small town with lots of empty streets. My cousins owned two Yamahas, they must have been about 125 cc engines, but the thrill of being allowed to take the bike alone has always lived with me. I was probably foolhardiness or youthful exuberance, but I just hopped onto the bike and started riding!!


2.Which is the first bike that you owned. Tell us how you managed to buy and live with it?
The RD 350 was the first bike I owned, though I had the pleasure of ‘sponging’ of many friends including the Norton Twin Dominator, the beautiful Jawa! The RD was the only one of its kind in college hostel and I still remember every Sunday washing it down, spending time at the Yamaha garage with the mechanics! That’s when I learnt owning a bike is not about buying it but getting grease on your hands!

3.You stopped riding for a while? What made you do that?
The humdrum of family life gets to you and you forget, albeit for a short time, that life is too short to give up your passions. And I woke up one morning and decided to go out and buy myself a Harley!


4.What made you want to get back on the bike after the gap?
A personal loss, served as a strong reminder of the transience of life, and nothing goes with you. If you love it go after it!!

5.In all the choices available in India what made you go in for the Harley
The Harley has always been iconic! I am of the generation of ‘Easy Riders’! I could close my eyes and see the road, the stops by the road with a sleeping bag campfire and my Harley! I didn’t need to speed I wanted to make a statement to myself!



6.What makes the nightster so special?
I have a theory about men and bikes! Goes back to hundreds and thousand of years! Men rode horses; they were everything to man, transportation, war machines, and companions. Then came the automobile, but embedded in our genetic code has always remained the need to feel the wind, to ride!! The Nightster is a street bruiser not a cruiser! He is my ‘Sea Biscuit’! He is a small bike (1200 cc) with a big heart, he doesn’t know he is small; he can run with the biggest! There is nothing fancy about him just the bare essential riding experience! No fancy electronics or gizmos!!


7.How does your neighbor deal with the famous V twin growl?
It draws plenty attention, not just the neighbors but the dogs as well! The kids love the rides and I can see envy in their eyes!!


8.What is the kind of questions the public throws at you when they spot you on the bike?
The usual, cost, where is it made! The most rewarding experience was when I first picked up the bike from the showroom and was riding back at a traffic light an old auto rickshaw driver looked at the bike, his face light up with a toothless smile and he just said Harley!!! I immediately knew I had bought the best bike in the world.

9.How do you answers this those questions?
Depends on the situation, while riding many a time other bikers, cars pull along side and ask these questions!! Most irritating! When parked we all as a group love answering these questions! There is genuine curiosity and interest and we love that.



10.What about the nightster do you think Harley should improve and how?
Tubeless tires!!!! I am dreading the day I get stranded with a puncture!!

11.How has the bike changed you as a person?
I have met the most delightful caring bunch of fellow riders! I am not sure if that would have every happened if I hadn’t got the Harley. Rediscovered the thrill and pleasure of companionship again.

12.Who maintains your bike? How has the experience at the dealership been?
The routine maintenance I strictly do myself! No one dares even clean Sea Biscuit! The less said about the dealership the better! Efforts are being made but it surprising that HD India has taken so long to understand this business. There seems to be a lack of understanding that this is not just any premium vehicle they are selling! These machines mean more to the buyers (with exception’s!) than many things in life.

13.How is Delhi roads/climate suited for the nightster?
Actually the roads in Delhi are pretty good especially early mornings in winters! Summers are a challenge but have you every ridden through a dust storm……its something else!

14.What’s the best road the bikes been on?
Rajasthan roads!!! Great roads, low population density and rugged terrain!!

15.If you plan on getting another bike which one would it be?
Tough one! But I have other plans!!! In the off chance of a windfall then probably a big cruiser!



16.How expensive is it to maintain a H-D?
Pretty bullet proof (so far! Fingers crossed!) but what does cost a lot of money are the accessories!!

17.Do smaller capacity bikers on the street challenge you, if yes how do you deal with it?
Smile and let them through!! We know what’s going on between those ears! Never respond with aggression!

18. where do you park you bike? how do you react when people fiddle with it?

Behind the house in an enclosed area but always under covers... would never want anyone fiddling with it!! But actually most neighbors are in awe of the bike and almost never touch it! Maybe its just a decent neighborhood!! :-)

19. what speeds have you seen on the speedo?

I am a pretty conservative biker, besides this is not a speed super bike...generally between 100 to 140 kms on empty stretches, but no pride in hitting high speeds for me. Its the pleasure of the ride. One of a greatest ride we had was as a group of 10 Harleys riding in tight formation at 90-100 on a cold winter morning for a 50 kms stretch.....a spiritual experience!! Its amazing how biking like that we are separated as individuals yet completely connected to each other as a group, every move anyone makes impacts the whole formation!!!



20.Do you think everyone can own a bike one day? How do you think they can do it?
Nah! Big bikes are not for everyone. It is tragic to see some Harley owners using their bikes as status symbols. Besides the power in these bikes can make them very dangerous if uncontrolled. Every time I have ridden I have learnt something new about the bike. How it handles, my own limitations, where I can and can’t push the envelope. Big bikes mean big responsibilities….. drinking and riding are a big no no for us as is aggression on the roads.