In the past, (about ten years ago) I rode an old Kawasaki 750 LTD.  I loved riding it.  I had never tasted the deeper pleasures that European bikes have to offer.

Life changed, I got married, and instead of pouring time and energy into the 'ol Kawasaki, I found myself spending my time with a real flesh and blood woman.  The bike was sold.  (for the record, I don't regret that for one second!)

Through a series of adventures, I found myself working with a guy named Phil Engel.  He's the owner/operator of Engeland Moto.com.  Not only is he an accomplished motorcycle mechanic, he's also a talented rider, and a solid, ethical businessman.  I enjoyed working with Phil, and spent many hours helping with inventory, sales, etc.  This work involved being around powerful BMW motorcycles every day.  You can imagine the temptation....

One day Phil said "Andrew, there are some good motorcycle auctions coming up - you should check 'em out and see if you like anything."  I did check them out....  And I did like something...

We ended up getting a BMW R1100R with 10,000 miles on it.  After getting the bike home, we found the damage that gave the bike its "salvage title" designation.  It had a cracked bell housing (the part that is between the engine and the clutch/drive shaft assembly).  Phil and his son Nat tore apart the bike, replaced the cracked housing, and re-built it in about 3 days.

R1100R Front

housing

back

The contrast to my old Kawasaki is dramatic.  The Kawasaki was a 4 cylinder, carburetter, chain driven cruiser.  The BMW is a 2 cylinder, fuel injected, shaft - driven, road-gobbling, naked roadster.  It is fast, grips the road like a crotch - rocket, but it is made to cruise all day, every day for months and years on end.

My wife and I have enjoyed getting to know this new addition to the family.  So has my 2 1/2 year old son, who loves sitting up on the tank and cruising the neighborhood with me at 10 mph. 

the family

Sometimes when the air is warm and clear and the sun is settling towards the west, we can be found cruising along quiet back roads, the smooth air flowing past our shoulders and the summer evening filled with the sweet lazy smell of honeysuckle.  Then a bee splatters across my face mask, bringing us back to reality. Life is good...