Ogling my chopper...

I know that this blog really ain't what it used to be, but rest assured that all is well at the garage and I may even be able to get back in there a bit more often in the very near future; at least to tidy up, take stock of what each bike needs (surprisingly little as it turns out!), and prepare for the three outings planned for this year.

Last time I was at the garage I started looking around and made a plan; then I fixed a few small details on the Sportster that were annoying me, and once I was done with that I took the cover off the BSA and reveled in its glory. It really is a beautiful motorcycle (I suggest you click on the photo to look at the full-size version):

You may remember that uncle Fester had already sorted out the broken gas tank mount last year, so the bike is pretty much good to go again; I'd like to go ride it a little bit before I take it on one of the aforementioned three outings, more than anything just to re-acquaint myself with it. So I've started by doing an oil change, checking the battery (it's dead, not surprisingly, I'll need to get a new one), the usual stuff.

Somewhat worryingly I found a fair bit of metal particles in the oil, the magnetic plug in the sump looked like a Christmas tree when I pulled it out (nod to Brian...). They are very fine particles, and the magnet obviously caught them so I won't worry too much about it. It goes without saying that the right thing to do would be to fit an external oil filter, but I don't think I'll do that just yet.

Before I actually start the bike, I'm handing it over to uncle Fester again for a special project, hopefully it'll turn out great (and it should be reversible, just in case anyone is worried about ruining those perfectly proportioned lines...); I'll keep you posted!