I have enjoyed reading all the stories (and suggestions) this thread has created, and hope to continue doing so.
In my mind, buying an item costing nearly $10,000 without the blessing of the wife is no more "manly" than slapping her in the face. My first lesson from my father is to never, ever strike a woman. A lesson I would now teach a young man is to give the wife the same respect he'd expect from her, and attaining mutual agreement on a large purchase is a show of respect to the lady. It is no longer the 50s and women are no longer barefooted.
I believe I will respectfully convince my wife over time to agree to buying a motorcycle, and perhaps have her be a part of the wind, but meanwhile it is a good thing to read what other folks have gone through to put a Triumph in their garage.
