2007 Street Bob

Now Wasn’t That Easy?

With Caroline and I both in agreement, it was back to see Billy with a certified cheque. Again, I rode my bike to Freedom to finalize the deal. On Billy’s desk there was one of those “Easy Buttons” that I first saw on a Staples commercial, and I had pressed it. A voice from the plastic button responded, “Now wasn’t that easy?” Compared to my earlier attempt to purchase a bike that took all summer, but got nowhere - yeah, it was damn easy!

With the financial side taken care of, all that remained was to get the ownership transferred and to pick up the bike. I asked if Saturday was ok, and like everything so far it was no problem.

Caroline sits on her new bike for the first time.

On November 1st, Caroline drove me up to Freedom just after lunch. It was sunny but cool - single digit cool. Billy was not working that day, but he left us in the capable hands of Ed who took the time to show us some of the particulars of the new bike. Our only surprise was to do with the security system. Although my TSport also has security module, it requires one to manually activate and deactivate it. On the 2007 Street Bob, it is always armed unless the key fob is in close proximity. Cool!

Once we made an inspection of the bike and signed the papers saying everything was good, it was time to bring the newest member of our family home. Caroline asked me to ride it the 30km back to our place, and I of course couldn’t refuse (nor would I want to for that matter). It would be the last time I would be riding in 2007 as my bike had already been put away for the winter. By the time I turned on to our driveway, I had formed a few opinions about Caroline’s new bike. The mini apes really felt good, but without a windshield I don’t think I’d enjoy too long a ride. It took only a half hour for my neck to develop pains. I also noticed that the suspension was no where near as cushy as on my TSport. However, I loved the new 96 c.i. engine and the six speed gear box. Though down 30 hp compared to my bike, it actually feels stronger in normal riding.

All the bikes nice and cozy waiting for spring.

Now the Fun Begins!

Winter is going to feel very long for Caroline this year. She did manage to ride her bike for a few kilometers before we parked it in the garage, but I’m sure she is looking forward to riding next summer more than ever. It will be a dramatic difference to her Sporty. The fuel injection will make starting the bike less of a hassle, and the rubber mounting will let her go faster comfortably. One of her biggest issues with the Sporty was the vibration experienced when going over 100kph. Avoiding that vibration meant avoiding major highways, which meant we were restricted to places we could go. She also complained I accelerated too fast, but I think with this bike it might be me who will be doing the complaining now.

The most important reason for buying this bike was to make her feel like she belongs on it. While the Sporty was tall and thin, this bike is low and wide. I know she will be very happy.