Author Topic: At peace with my 06 Electra  (Read 13830 times)

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TRider

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on: November 25, 2007, 03:14:31 am
I didn't ride my 06 Electra for almost 3 months, missed possibly the best part of the riding season.  I could have got it back from the dealer, but stubbornly I left it there, hoping along with the dealer that the Classic Kit would be in anytime.  He was encouraged many times that it was on its way, but it didn't happen.  I have no problem with the dealer in Ellaville, Ga. , the owners of Mor-Rite Motorcycle Garage were very honest with me and certainly provided service over and beyond what most dealers would have provided.  I speak of Wayne Morrow and his son Wayne in the highest regard.

When I got it back I initially had some heartache about the bike and questioning my decision to have the Classic Kit installed.  The look was so different, so radical.  Especially after I noticed the quality of the tank.   The chrome is of poor quality and the green paint is also substandard.  But I accept it like it is, I really don't want to give the bike up again.  I'll just deal with this a ways down the road. 

After riding my Electra the 48 miles home from the dealer in Ellaville, and then again Thanksgiving Day morning after the bike was towed back to them the previous Monday (towed by Mor-Ride free of charge), and then riding the bike today 75 miles, I am here to report that I am now at peace with my Electra. 

After viewing the new color scheme from every angle, after flipping pages in some of my old Classic motorycle  mags, I am now very satisfied with the new look.  Initially I didn't think I would like the chrome front fender with a green rear fender.  Now I do.  It truly is a very classic look.  Looking down on the bike from the rear you see the line of the green rear fender and the line of the green center line of the fuel tank.  It just all goes together.  I am indeed happy and satisfied.

Please note tha the painted tank I received was not painted in India at the factory.   My understanding is that the factory kept shipping the wrong color scheme on each delivery.  They just couldn't get the chrome and green tank right.  They must have a problem with understanding the difference between green and gray.  Green must mean gray.  So CMW's had a local painter paint the tank that was shipped to me.  I think this was done so hurriedly to satisfy a few customers that superior quality was maybe not expected nor received.  Hopefully the green and chrome tanks sold in the future will be painted from the factory in India where quality is expected.  At least I sure hope this is possible and not just a dream. 

.

After saying all of that, and I am sure way too much, I am very happy overall with my 2006 Electra Bullet.  The bike runs perfect, most injoyable motorcycle I have ever ridden.  Not the smoothest, but it just rides what I think a motorcyle should ride like.
I love it because it different, its radical, its beautiful, its just so darned unique.  Yes, I am at peace.  I don't hold grudges.  One cannot even say the word grudge without a frown on his face.  Its not healthy. 

And so it is.  I've said my piece.  Peace be to all.
Happy Holidays,
Terry
« Last Edit: November 25, 2007, 06:37:21 pm by TRider »


indian48

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Reply #1 on: November 25, 2007, 03:37:04 am
Terry,
I think that there is a lesson in all you post for all of us.
For me, the bike that I bought, is as it gets sold in India,  with the painted rear fender, chrome front fender, and the chrome/paint combination tank. I have been thinking that at some time, I will move to the all painted look, because my personal preference is for the engine/gearbox to not be painted and to look like the metal they are made out of, and for the body work to be painted. If any chrome, maybe the exhaust pipe. Reading what you say tells me to leave well alone, and not make any of the cosmetic changes. Spend the cash and the time on enjoying riding the bike instead. That's the lesson in it for me.
RE India currently sells this bike in black, or what they call athena grey, for the painted parts, and they do not have a green in their Indian line up. Maybe that is why they have not been able to get you the exact shade you need.
Enjoy the bike!
If anything is worth doing, it is worth doing well


TRider

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Reply #2 on: November 25, 2007, 06:51:34 pm
I agree with you Indian48.  I ordered my Electra seven months ago and picked it up 6 months ago.  I ordered it just like it is right now, with the performance kit and the Classic Kit.  The only thing I added was saddle bags.  It took 7 months to get the Green Classic Kit installed from date of order.  I paid for all of this up front.   

On hindsight, if I were buying a new Electra today, I would buy it bone stock.  You see, I don't even know if the performance kit even made any difference.  I just had to have it.  This was all my decisions, so I have only myself to blame.   I should have just added stuff as I went along.  In other words, if my order was not filled in a resonable amount of time, then I could just cancel the order.  If the part came in with an inferior paint job or damage, then I could just sent them back for a refund.  But we live & learn, and at 61 I don't know how many more lessons I want to learn. 

I truly am not bitter toward anyone.  In my persuit of the "perfect bike",  I take full responsibility. 

As I said previously, I am now at peace with my Electra.  I am satisfied.  Life goes on, and I have to always remember, for myself a motorcycle is just a toy, like my boat.  I don't need it for transportation, and I sure don't need the boat to catch fish to have something to eat tonight.

My advise to a newbee would be to go slowly, build your "perfect bike" as you go along, over a period of time, no need for haste.
Terry



indian48

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Reply #3 on: November 25, 2007, 11:23:58 pm
Look at this way, the day you stop learning is the day you stop growing is the day you start going into decline! I hope to go out of this world without having gotten into the decline phase.
As for your advice about going slowly all I will say is Amen!
Kumar
If anything is worth doing, it is worth doing well


LJRead

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Reply #4 on: November 26, 2007, 12:13:50 am
I guess what your saying, TRider, is that what you have is "good enough" for now anyway.  I'd say we'd all be a lot happier if we try to get along better with what we have - a good Thanksgiving thought - don't you think?

It's like a beautiful woman, a few minor flaws seem to make her more beautiful!


RagMan

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Reply #5 on: November 26, 2007, 12:27:22 am
The last place you expect to see philosophical understanding, is on a motorcycle forum. You guys are amazing.
aka Indiana Bulleteer.
''99 Classic Bullet. '05 Ural Tourist sidecar rig, converted to 2wd. '05 Harley Davidson Sportster.
Jefferson County, WA


LJRead

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Reply #6 on: November 26, 2007, 01:01:56 am
The process of getting somewhere is more important than the goal - hey TRider?

And RagMan aka Indiana-Bulleteer- I seem to sense a pretty strong philosophical outlook from you, as well.  Like the new handle - less awkward.


indian48

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Reply #7 on: November 26, 2007, 01:03:19 am
It is the community that is amazing,,,this is a very high quality group of people. Maybe its the RE that gets a certain type of people together, and also plays a key part in bringing the best out of us.
As I keep telling LJR, there is a book about this, begging to be written!!
If anything is worth doing, it is worth doing well


indian48

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Reply #8 on: November 26, 2007, 01:15:38 am
Ragman,
There are some interesting thoughts starting in the High Compression Piston discussion as well,,,more on zen and the art of motorcycle upgrading, that you may want to jump into!
If anything is worth doing, it is worth doing well


RagMan

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Reply #9 on: November 26, 2007, 01:45:53 am
I will go look - I had nothing to post in the original posts so have not been checking it.
aka Indiana Bulleteer.
''99 Classic Bullet. '05 Ural Tourist sidecar rig, converted to 2wd. '05 Harley Davidson Sportster.
Jefferson County, WA


LJRead

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Reply #10 on: November 26, 2007, 06:55:21 pm
I reread this thread this morning and had another look at your "Members Rides" photos and must say that the bike is gorgeous,  To me, having a chrome rear fender would be a pain since keeping it polished would mean working a rag around all the impediments like the racks, saddlebags etc. and also, like you say, the green on the tank continues to flow into the fender.

Yet when I reread what you say, there is a sort of resignation to maybe having second best, or at least not having the bike measure up to your original dream.  What I think is you deserve a celebration of a job well done, and I think most on the forum would be only too happy to exchange bikes with you, that is, if they haven't put so much of themselves into their bikes, which I expect they have.

No, you have every right to be at piece over your efforts and all those who took part, it is an extremely beautiful bike.


scoTTy

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Reply #11 on: November 26, 2007, 07:26:14 pm
Terry.. you've done quite a few changes.. I was wondering what the shade over the light looked like..now I know.. I like it :)

Got a question for you about the solo seat.. did you use anything to cover up all the electronics under the seat?

I have an aversion to leaving them exposed for weather reasons and to keep prying fingers off.

You never know what someone might do for a practical joke.

Case in point. I had just got my Electra and I stopped at the local Honda shop to look at helmets. While I was inside some guy dropped a small bolt on the engine and when I came out he made notice of it. I thanked him and said I would check it out later.. 45 minutes of searching with a mirror taking the tank off, just the basic motorcycle aerobics, I looked at the bolt head real close and noticed the Honda emblem stamped on it.  >:(  I'm certain he had a good laugh with his buddies.. ::)

I haven't been back, wouldn't want to run into his brand of humor again.

scotty


TRider

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Reply #12 on: November 26, 2007, 09:43:57 pm
Scotty asked:
Got a question for you about the solo seat.. did you use anything to cover up all the electronics under the seat?

No special deal.  I just have them tied up together.  I think I need to come up with something waterproof.  This had not crossed my mind until you said something.  I also have a battery tender connection hooked to the battery.  Should be able to use this for a heated vest also.  Thanks Scotty for the tip.


Larry, (LJ) thanks for your kind words.  I think that the new scheme was just so different, and I had waited so long, that it just took some "getting used to".  I really like it now.  However, I really like the old look too.  I know this sounds crazy, but I am thinking of Florida Orange in maybe a couple of years.  Front fender chrome, Orange tank and rear fender.

Later
Terry
« Last Edit: November 26, 2007, 10:11:10 pm by TRider »


LJRead

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Reply #13 on: November 26, 2007, 10:20:10 pm

You know Terry, we are all so different in our likes and dislikes, aren't we?  I've had some ideas for business ventures in the past and thought "everyone would like that", only to find I was all alone in liking"that".  I have always been the last to follow fad or fashion.  But you seem to have an idea now of an evolutionary process with your bike - probably a good thing.  Maybe you should try to get a spare tank and fender and try things out!  CMW had some on sale, may be able to twist their arm for them!  You could even use canned spray paint to try things out. 

Have fun!

Larry


TRider

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Reply #14 on: November 27, 2007, 01:23:37 pm
Larry,
I'll just leave it alone for awhile and enjoy it the way it is.  I was resting on my patio last night, drinking a cup of coffee, and just looking at my Electra.  I liked what I was looking at.  NIce, real nice.



RagMan

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Reply #15 on: November 27, 2007, 02:52:29 pm
Life is pretty good, when you just sit and look at your ride..
aka Indiana Bulleteer.
''99 Classic Bullet. '05 Ural Tourist sidecar rig, converted to 2wd. '05 Harley Davidson Sportster.
Jefferson County, WA


TRider

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Reply #16 on: November 27, 2007, 05:52:49 pm
Life is pretty good, when you just sit and look at your ride..

You know man, you are right.  There is nothing quite like just sitting around and looking.  The older I get the more I appreciate this fine practice.  I love just sitting under the patio cover in my back yard, looking at my bike, every once in a while taking a swipe at it with a clean cloth.  Looking at the ripples in the water as it flows by, a fish rising to the top to catch a bug, a big old Gator followed by a 2 footer, my Pug dog just sitting there watching my every move.  Watching my 58 yr old beautiful wife of 39 yrs stroll by and winking at me, a suggestion for later pleasures.  Yes, life is very good indeed when one just sits and looks.


RagMan

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Reply #17 on: November 27, 2007, 09:08:27 pm
Yep. I am trying to convince my beautiful 23 year old spouse, of 5 years, to let me bring the Bullet inside over the winter, so I can work on it, when the mood gets me. Of course, I would remove the fuel tank. But I could remove the front end, build me a 21 inch rim, in comfort, change the sprocket for a smaller - when winter let up, I would have the trail bike I want. Maybe I should just take the tank off and bring it in.. then she would have to tell me to take it out, and she ain't likely to do that. :)
aka Indiana Bulleteer.
''99 Classic Bullet. '05 Ural Tourist sidecar rig, converted to 2wd. '05 Harley Davidson Sportster.
Jefferson County, WA


scoTTy

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Reply #18 on: November 28, 2007, 12:44:03 am
ha,  YES... count me in..  ;D  I too, like to just sit and stare at the RE.. and no telling how many time I've used that touch up wax they sell here.. ::)  then it might start raining and I will turn around a lsten to the thunder and wish I had a tape recorder so, I could listen to it later..  there will be more rains though.. other sounds.. so I turn back, look at the X and wonder  can I really start this thing with the kick starter   :-\ :P


indian48

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Reply #19 on: November 28, 2007, 01:18:09 am
Scotty,,for sure you can start it that way,,,its just mind over matter,,,your mind over the bikes matter, although most people here may argue that is can be the other way around for them and their bikes often enough!!
If anything is worth doing, it is worth doing well


indian48

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Reply #20 on: November 28, 2007, 01:35:33 am
And hey guys, I am in entire agreement the pleasures of the kind of looking that is being discussed here. Both at the bike, and at the world around us. And the bike attraction is why my wife would never allow me to get the bike in the bedroom, even if I could!
A long time I ago, I read a poem in school that had lines that went - to have the time, to just stand and stare, does anyone here recall it - I thought it was a stupid poem, but then I was just 14 then. 34 years on, it makes a lot more sense.
If anything is worth doing, it is worth doing well


RagMan

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Reply #21 on: November 28, 2007, 02:03:14 am
She said yes. So, when the space is clear, the bike comes in for the refit. I moved my desk, the dog house, and the junk pile, so nearly there. I will post a picture when the Bullet is in the living room.
aka Indiana Bulleteer.
''99 Classic Bullet. '05 Ural Tourist sidecar rig, converted to 2wd. '05 Harley Davidson Sportster.
Jefferson County, WA


scoTTy

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Reply #22 on: November 28, 2007, 04:52:34 am
Quote
he bike comes in for the refit. I moved my desk, the dog house, and the junk pile, so nearly there

 no wonder shes so happy.. she finally gets 2 C the floor agaIn ;D


RagMan

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Reply #23 on: November 28, 2007, 10:26:28 am
That is probably true, but the floor ain't much to look at. Bare concrete. We live in a construction zone.
aka Indiana Bulleteer.
''99 Classic Bullet. '05 Ural Tourist sidecar rig, converted to 2wd. '05 Harley Davidson Sportster.
Jefferson County, WA


DaveG

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Reply #24 on: November 28, 2007, 01:44:34 pm
"LEISURE"

What is this life if, full of care,
We have no time to stand and stare.

No time to stand beneath the boughs
And stare as long as sheep or cows.

No time to see, when woods we pass,
Where squirrels hide their nuts in grass.

No time to see, in broad daylight,
Streams full of stars, like skies at night.

No time to turn at Beauty's glance,
And watch her feet, how they can dance.

No time to wait till her mouth can
Enrich that smile her eyes began.

A poor life this if, full of care,
We have no time to stand and stare.

By Wm. Henry Davies.

Is this the one?

73 de Dave G7NCB from the Isle of Axholme UK (MacPro and OSX.4.11) and 05 Electra X


indian48

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Reply #25 on: November 28, 2007, 02:33:09 pm
Dave,
Just the one,,,I thank you for taking the trouble to post it. It hits the spot now, doesn't it? And reading it I can also understand why I could not see the point many years ago.
Thx again.
If anything is worth doing, it is worth doing well


hutch

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Reply #26 on: November 28, 2007, 03:50:57 pm
She said yes. So, when the space is clear, the bike comes in for the refit. I moved my desk, the dog house, and the junk pile, so nearly there. I will post a picture when the Bullet is in the living room.
     
Future look of your living room RagMan. Please note oil stains. That is why the congoleum where the bikes are worked on and the rest of the room is carpeted. Welding in the house is real fun.     Hutch
« Last Edit: November 28, 2007, 03:54:08 pm by hutch »
You learn from your mistakes, and I have LEARNED a lot.


RagMan

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Reply #27 on: November 28, 2007, 06:32:04 pm
I can't weld so they are spared that.. But the bike is coming in...  This weekend.
aka Indiana Bulleteer.
''99 Classic Bullet. '05 Ural Tourist sidecar rig, converted to 2wd. '05 Harley Davidson Sportster.
Jefferson County, WA


LJRead

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Reply #28 on: November 28, 2007, 06:35:51 pm
Thanks for the verse - wonderful - and the more you stand (or sit) and stare, the more you see and appreciate.

Some tolerant wives with those bikes in the house, I would say.  Better remind yourselves to buy them some flowers or chocolates, the wives, notthe bikes!


RagMan

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Reply #29 on: November 28, 2007, 06:41:59 pm
I am very lucky with my Lady - she is tolerant of everything I do, so I do nothing at all without her say so. She has never said no yet. 
aka Indiana Bulleteer.
''99 Classic Bullet. '05 Ural Tourist sidecar rig, converted to 2wd. '05 Harley Davidson Sportster.
Jefferson County, WA


hutch

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Reply #30 on: November 28, 2007, 06:55:46 pm


Some tolerant wives with those bikes in the house, I would say.  Better remind yourselves to buy them some flowers or chocolates, the wives, notthe bikes!
   
My wife helped with most everything she could on my bikes. I miss those extra hands now that she passed away.    Hutch
You learn from your mistakes, and I have LEARNED a lot.


RagMan

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Reply #31 on: November 28, 2007, 07:11:56 pm
I cannot imagine life without my Lady.. I am sorry you have to live without yours.
aka Indiana Bulleteer.
''99 Classic Bullet. '05 Ural Tourist sidecar rig, converted to 2wd. '05 Harley Davidson Sportster.
Jefferson County, WA


LJRead

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Reply #32 on: November 28, 2007, 11:47:45 pm

Yes Hutch, I should have remembered that you are now living alone and been more sensitive.  Good though that you have fond memories.

My better half is just that and I well know it, so tolerant that it puts the responsibility on me not to overstep things.  Warm enough here that the bike can go in the shop, but we have lived in an unfinished house for fourteen years, moving in without lining or siding - step by step as they say.  Have you ever found that if you just devote a short time to something each day, it eventually gets done in a shorter time than expected?

What was the question of this topic?  Kind of drifted, didn't we? Oh well . . .


scoTTy

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Reply #33 on: November 29, 2007, 12:10:54 am
Hutch.....  MAN ;D

I LiKE  that bike, trying to make out the engine ..cOOl fenDer and art work  ;D


hutch

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Reply #34 on: November 29, 2007, 02:28:22 pm
Hutch.....  MAN ;D

I LiKE  that bike, trying to make out the engine ..cOOl fenDer and art work  ;D
     
Better picture Scotty. 1969 Triumph650 with 750 bigebore kit. Complete Harley rear wheel and brake assembly. Harley wide Glide front end, 10" over, 44 degree rake.
The back fender is a Harley dresser front fender that was shortend like they did in the 70's. Hand made stainless steel coffin tool box. Hand made suicide shift made out of Triumph Trident brake lever and old hunting knife with pearl handles. Shifter can just be seen on left side of tank with the linkage going under tank and coming out on the right side. 2 custom Harley shift linkage rods were put together to reach down to the custom shift lever. I just added a Joe Hunt Magneto sticking out of the point cover. A good friend does my paint.I will be putting this bike on e-bay this spring. It has about 4000 miles on it. Thanks for the positive comments. It makes building them worth the effort.      Hutch
You learn from your mistakes, and I have LEARNED a lot.