My soul is mobile again! If being without my motorcycle for two weeks is anything like death, I want to be riding in this life for a good LONG time!
I was like a concerned parent, taking her out for her first ride with the new friction plates. Mentally noting every nuance of vibration or utterance of noise for later analysis. Every jerk and stall and shifting difference inked into my brain. The cool air and blazing desert sun served as superb riding partners.
I may have been without my bike for a few weeks but I did learn a few things.
- When getting aftermarket parts or tools, ALWAYS doublecheck what is being ordered or purchased.
- Factory service manuals are not always correct in a clear, easy to understand fashion. Perhaps correct to the author, but maybe not so to the reader.
- Patience is a virtue. Wait... I knew that already...
- High pain tolerance is a virtue. I learned that after my oily hand slipped off a wrench and I smashed my pinkie finger nail.
- Don't assume a mechanic knows his or her stuff. A good mechanic doesn't know everything; they figure it out as they go along.
- Perseverance and trust in ones' self is always a winning combination.
