 How long do you keep your bikes?
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Joined: Jan 2005
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OP
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When I was young, I went through them pretty fast. Of course they were pretty rough to begin with. Since I started buying mostly new, I keep them around for 7-10 years, depends on how much I like them. I've had a few that I tamed quickly and got rid of them just as quickly. I've had my Speedmaster now for 5 years. Rode it today. Cool bike.  ---Bob
04 Speedmaster
07 Ulysses
16 Sportster Roadster
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Re: How long do you keep your bikes?
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Joined: Jan 2005
Posts: 6,821
Bar Shake
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Bar Shake
Joined: Jan 2005
Posts: 6,821 |
I've had my Speedmaster for five years now. I'll probably hang on to it for around town and some day rides.
I really need to get a nice two up touring bike though.
When I get it, I'll most likely start doing some custom stuff to the SM that'll have it down for a while.
Contra todo mal, mezcal; contra todo bien, también
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Re: How long do you keep your bikes?
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Joined: Aug 2005
Posts: 883 Likes: 2
3/4 Throttle
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3/4 Throttle
Joined: Aug 2005
Posts: 883 Likes: 2 |
Growing up, I think the longest I had a single bike was a KZ1000 that I owned for about 6 years. It was in rough shape when I bought it, and in much rougher shape when I junked it. I now have a Kawasaki Ninja (ZX600R) that I purchased new back in 1992 (still in mint condition) which is longest I've ever kept a bike, and I don't plan on getting rid of her any time soon. Oh, and I've had my Speedy now going on 5 years and like the Ninja, don't see getting rid of her anytime soon either.  Cheers, Brad
To be old and wise, you must first be young and stupid.
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Re: How long do you keep your bikes?
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Joined: Jan 2005
Posts: 18,825
"Lighten up, Francis."
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"Lighten up, Francis."
Joined: Jan 2005
Posts: 18,825 |
How long do you keep your bikes?
I don't understand the question.
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Re: How long do you keep your bikes?
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Joined: Jan 2005
Posts: 1,500
Learned Hand
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Learned Hand
Joined: Jan 2005
Posts: 1,500 |
Quote:
How long do you keep your bikes?
I don't understand the question.
FJ, I understand your confusion. He's talking to those people out there that sell their perfectly good bikes to us for rediculously low prices, so that we can ride them for years and years....
Learning from my mistakes... again and again.
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Re: How long do you keep your bikes?
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Joined: Mar 2009
Posts: 12,964
Stickman Yogi
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Stickman Yogi
Joined: Mar 2009
Posts: 12,964 |
Well, I've had this one since '84. Had a different sprocket for bush riding. Got beat up pretty pretty good, nothing serious just broken and bent stuff and all scuffed up. I restored in last winter just for fun. She's a pretty little thing. 
Live to love, love to live.
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Re: How long do you keep your bikes?
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Joined: Jan 2005
Posts: 18,825
"Lighten up, Francis."
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"Lighten up, Francis."
Joined: Jan 2005
Posts: 18,825 |
Ah. Nutters.
Of course, it may be that they've tried many inferior bikes before finding their way to Triumph. I could see that.
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Re: How long do you keep your bikes?
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Joined: Jan 2007
Posts: 3,465 Likes: 2
Loquacious
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Loquacious
Joined: Jan 2007
Posts: 3,465 Likes: 2 |
Until I find one I want more.
Never had more than two at one time, but sure wish I had kept a few of the ones that I thought were obsolete. I envy Ian's ability to keep 'em around. (Yeah, even that CX500 he mentioned once).
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Re: How long do you keep your bikes?
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Joined: Apr 2009
Posts: 497
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Joined: Apr 2009
Posts: 497 |
First bike, Honda Rebel for six months.
Current bike Yamaha V-Star for 14 months and hope to trade it on a Triumph someday soon.
If there's nothing wrong with me,
maybe there's something wrong with the universe!
-Dr. Crusher
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Re: How long do you keep your bikes?
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Joined: Aug 2005
Posts: 2,726
Loquacious
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Loquacious
Joined: Aug 2005
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Had my 05 America for 4 years now. I couldn't imagine parting with it even if I had to have another bike (probably a sports tourer). This is probably the longest I kept any bike for the last 40 years. I'm sure I'll have it 5 years from now.
Bob
2005 America, 904cc - sold. 2014 Trophy SE.
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Re: How long do you keep your bikes?
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Joined: Feb 2007
Posts: 23,194 Likes: 56
Fe Butt
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Fe Butt
Joined: Feb 2007
Posts: 23,194 Likes: 56 |
Never sold one but did trade my 75 Suzuki GT550 triple for my 64 Norton P11. Only bike I ever parted with willingly. I had my 76 Yamaha DT 360 stolen (maybe it was a 74) Killed my DT 100 but still have pieces. Biggest mistake I made was throwing my 40s Allstate moped in the scrap, didn't need much work but I was a kid.
I learned all I need to know about life by killing smart people and eating their brains.
Eat right ,Exercise ,Stay fit, Die Anyway!
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Re: How long do you keep your bikes?
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Joined: Apr 2008
Posts: 3,937
Loquacious
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Loquacious
Joined: Apr 2008
Posts: 3,937 |
Since I gave my 05 BA to my son, I'm left with a 04,03,99(dirt bikes), and a 80,72,& 71(street bikes). Still have my 68 Chevelle Malibu El camino. Just had my 25th wedding anniv.(since she doesn't like silver jewelry, I got her a bunch of Bullion bars. Lets see what she can do with those!  ) My house was built in 1925, and I made my current cannabis pipe from a truck tire guage in 197?. So, I guess its fair to say that I don't like change.
And you may see me tonight
With an illegal smile
J. Prine
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Re: How long do you keep your bikes?
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Joined: Jan 2005
Posts: 8,639 Likes: 3
Old Hand
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Old Hand
Joined: Jan 2005
Posts: 8,639 Likes: 3 |
I don't consider a bike to be proved to be reliable until it has run for at least 20 - 25 years. I expect that the '03 and '07 that I have now will last a lot longer than I will. I see no reason to change bikes just because some flashy new dodad comes out. ******, my America is the first bike I've owned that didn't have a kicker, and I still don't trust that.
Let's hope there's intelligent life somewhere in space 'cause it's buggar all down here. -- Monte Python
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Re: How long do you keep your bikes?
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Joined: Feb 2005
Posts: 988
3/4 Throttle
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3/4 Throttle
Joined: Feb 2005
Posts: 988 |
I have had my 1969 TR6R for 28 years now my 02 TBA for 7 years and my 06 KTM 450EXC for 3 years. Don't plan on getting rid of any of them any time soon. 
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Re: How long do you keep your bikes?
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Joined: Jan 2005
Posts: 4,541
Loquacious
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Loquacious
Joined: Jan 2005
Posts: 4,541 |
I wish i had kept every motorcycle I have owned. I would have a pretty cool collection of bikes now.
Arsenalfan. AKA Mark Able
Seller of fine automobiles.
Jaguar, Land Rover, Porsche of Chattanooga
423-424-4000
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Re: How long do you keep your bikes?
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Joined: Dec 2006
Posts: 7,028 Likes: 8
New Tires
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New Tires
Joined: Dec 2006
Posts: 7,028 Likes: 8 |
Never sell a bike or a gun!
I've had my 76 Bonnie for 23 years. I can't see ever selling the America or Thruxton. Wish I'd never sold my 61 and 63 Bonnies at the end of high school to got to college. Also miss my 20 ga. Winchester 101 field grade o/u.
Every normal man must be tempted, at times, to spit on his hands, hoist the black flag, and begin slitting throats.
H. L. Mencken
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Re: How long do you keep your bikes?
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Joined: Mar 2006
Posts: 182
Adjunct
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Adjunct
Joined: Mar 2006
Posts: 182 |
How long do you keep your bikes?
The whole time.
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Re: How long do you keep your bikes?
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Joined: May 2006
Posts: 2,647
Loquacious
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Loquacious
Joined: May 2006
Posts: 2,647 |
Quote:
bush riding.
 Yeah baby! 
The TBA is my first bike, and I will eventually need something bigger for 2-up long distance riding, but I'll keep the America (that's the plan anyway).
Last edited by KaiserSoze; 07/14/2009 12:17 PM.
06 America 904
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Re: How long do you keep your bikes?
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Joined: Dec 2007
Posts: 211
Adjunct
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Adjunct
Joined: Dec 2007
Posts: 211 |
Forever? They dont take up much room, are easy to maintain and repair... why ever get rid of any bike. That said, I did flip a bunch of vintage bikes to pay for my America. Plan to do the same for my future Tiger, and Future Thunderbird. But, I wish I had enough coin to never flip a bike, but rather keep it.
2007 Custom America with BUBs
I make my own parts cause I cant afford to buy theirs.
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Re: How long do you keep your bikes?
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Joined: Jun 2007
Posts: 3,402 Likes: 7
Loquacious
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Loquacious
Joined: Jun 2007
Posts: 3,402 Likes: 7 |
I keep my bikes longer than I keep my cars ... but only just!
"You can't believe everything you read on the internet" : William Shakespeare
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Re: How long do you keep your bikes?
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Joined: Sep 2005
Posts: 3,816
Freelance Jedi Knight
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Freelance Jedi Knight
Joined: Sep 2005
Posts: 3,816 |
Quote:
I keep my bikes longer than I keep my cars ... but only just!
I thought that you keep them dirty 
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Re: How long do you keep your bikes?
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Joined: Jun 2006
Posts: 1,382
Learned Hand
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Learned Hand
Joined: Jun 2006
Posts: 1,382 |
Quote:
I wish i had kept every motorcycle I have owned. I would have a pretty cool collection of bikes now.
+1... I would now have:
Bultaco Pursang 250
Husky 360
Montesa 250
Yamaha YZ 125
and my BA
'06 TBA - Black, AI and Snorkel removed, K&N Drop In, Gutted Stock Pipes, 145/42, 2 turns out.
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Re: How long do you keep your bikes?
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Joined: Mar 2005
Posts: 386
Adjunct
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Joined: Mar 2005
Posts: 386 |
I have a 02 BA that I plan to take with me to the hereafter.Just trying to get it to 100,000 miles, have 71,650.
But, it died Sunday and I have to find a short some where.Keeps blowing 15 amp fuses.
Had 79 T140 Bonnie that I sold and cry over still.She was a great Bike.
I was so much older then, I am younger than that now (Wrote By Dylan Sung by the BYRDS,)
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Re: How long do you keep your bikes?
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Joined: Feb 2007
Posts: 23,194 Likes: 56
Fe Butt
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Fe Butt
Joined: Feb 2007
Posts: 23,194 Likes: 56 |
Quote:
Forever? They dont take up much room, are easy to maintain and repair... why ever get rid of any bike. That said, I did flip a bunch of vintage bikes to pay for my America. Plan to do the same for my future Tiger, and Future Thunderbird. But, I wish I had enough coin to never flip a bike, but rather keep it.
OK I don't count bikes I bought to flip since I never really considered them mine. I flipped a ton of HDs over the years.
I used to say triumphs are for riding and Hardleys are for selling.
I learned all I need to know about life by killing smart people and eating their brains.
Eat right ,Exercise ,Stay fit, Die Anyway!
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Re: How long do you keep your bikes?
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Joined: Jul 2007
Posts: 6,060 Likes: 6
Worn Saddle
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Worn Saddle
Joined: Jul 2007
Posts: 6,060 Likes: 6 |
I had my stock 69 bonnie for 15 years. Then I built my "57", and have rode it consistently, to Maine, Canada, Myrtle Beach and Texas, ridden for 13 years. Sold the 69 Bonnie to finance the 02 BA, hated to let it go, but I never rode it much. Don't see a reason to sell the BA. Kinda like to keep it at least to the 100,00 mark, or 200,00.
Fidelis et Fortis
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Re: How long do you keep your bikes?
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Joined: Aug 2005
Posts: 2,726
Loquacious
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Loquacious
Joined: Aug 2005
Posts: 2,726 |
Out of the 6 bikes I've had (would have been more but I quit riding for 15 years), there's only a couple other than my America I'd want. One was a '68 Honda 160 Candy Orange Scrambler and the other was a '71 Triumph Daytona.
Last edited by RamSound; 07/15/2009 4:13 PM.
Bob
2005 America, 904cc - sold. 2014 Trophy SE.
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Re: How long do you keep your bikes?
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Joined: Feb 2005
Posts: 2,839 Likes: 3
Loquacious
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Loquacious
Joined: Feb 2005
Posts: 2,839 Likes: 3 |
i have never been known to keep a bike for very long, most came and went within a few months or less. But i have a 72 Daytona that has been around all her life and an 02 B/A that has been around all her life. they are the only 2 bikes i have bought new and i guess from the way things look i will have them with me in the grave hahahahaha  i did own my RM for a few yrs but that was the only other bike i ever had for any real length of time. i have never been without a bike for any length time since i was 15 and have owned so many i cant remember some of them. to me bikes are just bikes if i could make a little $$ off a deal then why not but there is something about the fact that i have owned the 72 since new that i just cant see myself letting her go, she is like one of the family.
ENJOY!!!!! NEWT!!!!!
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Re: How long do you keep your bikes?
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Joined: May 2005
Posts: 524
Adjunct
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Adjunct
Joined: May 2005
Posts: 524 |
Harley snortster: 8 months
Harley Softtail: 6 years
All the dirt bikes over the yrs: ???
I see myself keeping the America at least until 100k. I don't need to have two bikes, one will be ridden, the other will collect dust. Don't know why it works that way.
I see the next bike as a sports tourer (the rumored Trophy or BMW).
Last edited by eddieb; 07/15/2009 5:10 PM.
Didn't buy into the hype, you can keep the change.
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Re: How long do you keep your bikes?
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Joined: Nov 2008
Posts: 90
Member
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Member
Joined: Nov 2008
Posts: 90 |
My first bike was a Yamaha DT175 1yr.Should I have kept it..nah! 2nd was a Honda CX500 3yrs. My biggest ever crash with a cage = destroyed! 3rd was a Kawasaki GPZ550 1yr.Threw that one down the road twice.No way I wanted to keep that one! 4th was a Moto Guzzi V50 Monza 2yrs.Gorgeous sweet little bike. Did I keep it? No - the wife wanted a bigger tourer so I traded it. My biggest mistake! Traded on... 5th was a BMW K100 3 yrs.She liked this one.Nice bike to tour on but the vibration tingles through bars and pegs drove me nuts! It had to go.Got traded on... 6th bike- Yamaha XT600 Tenere 2yrs.Absolutely loved that one too.Great fun and a real hoot on the bitumen.Forerunner to todays SuperMotard style bikes.Unfortunately along came the kids and mortgages etc Goodbye Tenere. hello.. 7th bike - Yamaha DT175! Geez full circle.Daily commuter for the next 7 years.Blah! Sold it and had a break for a few years.Moved house and thought time to get another.. 8th bike - SYM150 scooter 4yrs.I had intended keeping that one forever because it was so practical and fun for the daily commute until some thieving scum decided they needed it more than me.Which led to... 9th and current Triumph America.This one is a keeper but I am working on finding it a garage partner for the wife.
The language and concepts contained herein are guaranteed not to cause eternal torment in the place where the guy with the horns and pointed stick conducts his business.
-- Frank Zappa
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Re: How long do you keep your bikes?
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Joined: Jan 2005
Posts: 386
Adjunct
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Adjunct
Joined: Jan 2005
Posts: 386 |
Quote:
my America is the first bike I've owned that didn't have a kicker, and I still don't trust that.
Greybeard is my hero!! (we have the same birthday - just a lot of years in between)
Women and cats will do as they please. Men and dogs should just get used to that fact and relax
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Re: How long do you keep your bikes?
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Joined: Jul 2007
Posts: 6,060 Likes: 6
Worn Saddle
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Worn Saddle
Joined: Jul 2007
Posts: 6,060 Likes: 6 |
Oooops, forgot my 58 Cushman scooter. My first "bike". My grandfather gave it to me when I was 17, still have it in storage, sans motor, which my jerk Uncle sold when he was working on it. Gonna restore it someday!
Fidelis et Fortis
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Re: How long do you keep your bikes?
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Joined: May 2007
Posts: 76
Member
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Member
Joined: May 2007
Posts: 76 |
First Bike, a 72 Kreidler till my brother wrecked it.  bought a 60 NSU Prima in 1982 and still have it ( and in the process of restoring it and I am oh! so close). Just bought a 71 CB350 and 71 CB450 as project cafe racers. As long as I have some storage the bikes will stay. 
Harry
blue & white '07 TBA, Epcos, Freak, Dynojet kit, AI gone.
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Re: How long do you keep your bikes?
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Joined: Jan 2009
Posts: 533
Adjunct
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Adjunct
Joined: Jan 2009
Posts: 533 |
How long do I keep my bikes?
Until it comes time to put a bullet into 'em.
I have never sold a working or repairable bike... I run 'em til they die and harvest the parts.
2018 FLHCS
2014 Surly Straggler - 16,000 miles and counting!
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