jonlitts

I've been into fixing up old free cycles and building Cafe Racers for the 7 years I've been riding, but had a revelation a little while ago that my time was dramatically skewed toward the Repair end of the Ride/Repair spectrum. It was time for somewhat of a newer (i.e. younger than me!) and simpler cycle. I had been shopping for a KLR for a few months, not having quite enough spending money saved to buy new, and I came upon this '03 in the Want-Ads for $3k... with 50 miles on the odometer! "Minor Damage," said the ad. I wasn't getting too pumped as I've dealt with these "minor damage" bikes before. You know what I mean. I showed up to the guys garage to see that he's got a full shop setup; lift, truing stands, straightening jigs for frames, wall to wall motorcycle trophies with bikes on display, the works. He told me that the KLR had run into the back of a car, bending the upper fork tubes, and scratching some paint when it layed down. The insurance company had declared it totaled. He bought it back from the insurance company, did the repairs, and sold it to me. Judging by his shop and resume, I'm comfortable with his mechanical competence. I can deal with a Quarter-sized dent in the tank for a $2k savings! I've put 200 miles on it and I love it. I'm happy to be part of the KLR-Crew.