Parting? with a Classic

[chilipeppernorm]

I've been owning and riding bikes pretty much continuously for 50 years. Back in 2008 my son then 22 wanted his first bike and asked for my help. I got him to take his MC Safety Course and get his license, and we went bike shopping. At the local European bike shop we were browsing and came across a brand new 2004 Guzzi V11 Balabbio with 2 miles on the odometer from the factory. It was the last of a group of 5, and we bought it on the spot. I put the first 200 miles on it and Kiel took over and rode it a short distance to work and home in good weather, and occasionally on the weekends with me on my BMW GSA1200. He and his wife decided to start a family and she wasn't comfortable with his riding, so when he told me he was going to sell it I grabbed it back from him.

My wife and I moved to Oregon and the Balabbio has been sitting in my garage next to my 2014 BMW R1200RT with occasional short Spring and Summer rides. Less than 1900 original miles, pristine condition, never dropped or in a collision, hell, never even ridden in the rain. My problem is I ride the RT far more than the Guzzi. The wife gently posed the question of why am I maintaining and insuring 2 bikes when in reality I mostly only ride the RT. Being 63 and retired on a fixed income, she's got a point. Still, like many I have a short list of old classics (maybe not classic at the time I owned them) that I sold for good reason at the time and then regretted later. The RT is very comfortable and practical for me, the Guzzi not so much at this stage of my life. Still, I hate to see the sexy Italian Lady go. Anyone who's been in my shoes have some advice??









r

[Sport-Touring]

[Blue is Best]

I sold my 2007 ZX14 about a year ago because I always rode the FJR1300. I keep kicking myself now.        The picture in my avatar is a bike I sold when I was a kid that I wish I hadn't. At the time I needed money. I sold my 1980 GS1000S Suzuki in 2000 because the ex wouldn't let me have three bikes. Wish I would have gotten rid of her rather than the bike. Took me twelve more years to solve that problem! All the other bikes I've owned served their purpose.

Looking back I wish I would have investigated other ways to accomplish a solution to the perceived issue of keeping extra bikes. Got the room for the extra bike? Extra registration and insurance not a drag on the monthly budget? KEEP IT! Only advice I can give.

[chilipeppernorm]

Thanks Blue, just renewed the registration and insurance.

[Dan K]

Shop for cheaper insurance.  That way, you'll have put in the effort.  

[Blue is Best]

Thanks Blue, just renewed the registration and insurance.

You are welcome!  Be sure to ride it and keep the seals and rubber stuff loose.




Is there an address you can provide where I can send my bill?