So, the last six months have been indeed very interesting for me. Employment, of many years, working at a Harley Davidson dealership ended back in July. And that set off a chain of events, which I seem to be still strolling through.
Late last year, I bought my first Royal Enfield, a Himalayan. And while, it is a terrific machine, it really wasn't what I was hoping it would be. I had visions of an 'updated' Yamaha XT500 dancing in my head. While the Himalayan is appreciably better in every regard to the old XT's, they are just simply two differing machines.
So, my mind wandered to a 500 Bullet. I had never ridden one, and honestly, had only seen/sat on one many years ago, at a dealer in Columbus Ohio.
I contacted the dealer about trading in the Himalayan for a leftover Bullet, all the while knowing I would be taking a bath on the deal.
Two days before going to the dealer, I saw a 2013 Bullet on Craigslist with only 1,214 miles, and a one owner bike. Basically new.
Called the dealer to call off the trade and went out to Wheeling to buy the 2013.
The first ride, affirmed that this was more what I was wanting. It had actual thump to it. And truth be told, the low down torque I wanted, compared to the Himalayan.
But something was still missing.
It has all these modern features that are meant to ease riders minds. Electric start, fuel injection, lights and gizmos everywhere. Hmmm
I found myself looking up carb converion kits. Looking up how to delete the electric starter, paring down the overly complicated wiring harness.
Insanity! I tried to bury my thoughts, but my mind never seems to stop.
No, I wanted...no, I NEEDED something far more raw and visceral.
Three weeks after I brought the 2013 home, I spotted a 2000 Bullet while, once again, on Craigslist, though this time looking for gear.
Two days later, the seller was dropping it off in my driveway.
This...THIS...was what I have been searching for!
A carburetor. A four speed with a kicker only. Drum brakes, front and rear. Points ignition. Just a dead nuts simple machine, that oozes character and visceral emotion.
I know you already understand what I'm talking about. But it is something I seem to have been searching for, and never finding, for a long time now.
For those wondering about the Himalayan, and the UCE. Well, they both have found new homes...with family members! I inadvertently created a Royal Enfield motorcycling family. Literally.