Two-Strokes Forever (??) An image that is forever burned into my mind is that of an unknown motorcyclist racing down the road by my old high school in Laval, Quebec. He was riding a blue Yamaha 305 twin, and he was riding like the devil was on his tail. I first became aware of his coming by the high pitched scream of a two stroke on the pipe. I had swung around just in time to watch in awe as he shifted from first to second, the front wheel lifting high into the air. Whaaaannnnn wailed the motor - then he engaged third gear. The front wheel dipped down slightly for a moment before once again returning to its lofty position. Fourth gear came and that front end was still riding high. Then unfortunately he disappeared from my sight. Not only can I picture it now, but I almost can hear it and feel it. That was so impressive! So with the dirt bike sold, I was once again searching for new wheels. My finger traced down the column of the classifieds until it stopped with excitement at an advertisement for a Yamaha. I've long forgotten the model number, but it was an 180cc twin cylinder two-stroke street bike, a mini version of that memorable 305. I have absolutely no recollection of the actual purchase. I do, however, still remember the bike very well because of two unique motorcycling experiences it made possible for me. The first was my very first trip riding solo.
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