Well Ive decided to sell out....pics on p2

[txredneckmedic]

After getting married last year I came to the conclusion that I would not be able to use it like I wanted to. Well this past weekend we went to the lake with my wifes uncle and his family and I was finally able to convince my wife to let me sell the girl so I could get a used boat. It hurts a little but I realized that with 3 little ones we wont be able to ride like I want to and just putting around town doesnt do it for me. But you should have seen the faces on the kids while we were on her uncles boat at the lake. Ive got a classified add placed on the national board but if anyone knows of someone looking for one let me know. Its a 97 standard with the limited edition yellow and black paint scheme. I believe its just shy of 46k miles. Needs a little work like new tires and fork seals but thats cheap stuff that I havent had the time or money for. Im asking 6500obo, or I would be willing to take a partial trade for a used boat.

[sugarbee]

omg!  you're selling a BUMBLEBEE???   

I sure wish I had the extra dough, I would snatch that thing up in a heartbeat..

[txredneckmedic]

yeps....im selling my bumblebee. I really hate to do it but why let her go to waste when I can get something the whole family can enjoy. Hell I was actually able to relax this weekend also after working 80ish hours a week for the last 4 weeks.

[Dogg]

I have a 24ft pontoon I might be convinced to part with. maybe a trade for partial? boats is worth around 8500, 40 hrs on the 50 hp 4 stroke mercury. seats 14, new canvas top, cover needs seem work but otherwise in great shape. No trailor tho. I never needed one. kept it in the water all summer, had it dry docked in the winter.
Its a 04 oddessy. has am/fm/cd, fish finder. call me. 410-251-5365

[alph]

It’s really a shame when a man looses perspective in what’s really important in life.  Knowing that in just a few years from now those kids will be going off to college and all he’ll have is an old run down boat that no one else wants to use.  Maybe he’d be able to sell it for about 1/3 what he bought it for.  Not to mention there’s no joy in polishing a rudder, not much chrome to put on a runabout.  It’ll sit in the driveway when the kids are at their friend’s house and you really don’t want to go out on the lake by yourself.  The wife will complain about the mosquitoes and cleaning stinky fish…

Yea, it’s really a shame. 

[Steve K (IA)]

DON'T DO IT!

I was in your exact position back in the late 70's.  Had a new baby, thought with a boat all 3 of us could do this activity together.  Traded my '77 Honda 550-4 for a ski boat.  That was one of the biggest mistakes I have ever made.  Make sure you give it Lots of thought.  If you are a true motorcyclist, you will regret the decision. Every time you see or hear a motorcycle go by, you will be reminded of what you gave up.   In my case it wasn't worth it.   It was 14 years before I got another bike.

[Bladedog]

DON'T DO IT!

I was in your exact position back in the late 70's.  Had a new baby, thought with a boat all 3 of us could do this activity together.  Traded my '77 Honda 550-4 for a ski boat.  That was one of the biggest mistakes I have ever made.  Make sure you give it Lots of thought.  If you are a true motorcyclist, you will regret the decision. Every time you see or hear a motorcycle go by, you will be reminded of what you gave up.   In my case it wasn't worth it.   It was 14 years before I got another bike.

Was a 25 year wait for me, finally glad to be riding again.  However, I won't judge a man who's doing something with the family in mind. 

Just a suggestion, why not get the family riding dirtbikes?  Or ATV's?

[alph]

Exactly Steve!  I sold my ’87 convertible for a Ford Windstar minivan!  Sure it was hard getting that car seat out of the back but my little girl would love to have a convertible now!!  It could have been a family heirloom!!!  Something precious to had down to my children, not a boat.  Who wants a boat?  Try going to prom in that!!  

[Evil One]

What about a nice sidecar for the bumblebee?


Jim

[VALKTERY]

Boats are great fun, Ive owned a couple , but I found boats require a lot more time . you can jump on your valk and ride for a hour ot two, boats on the other hand are an all day thing, especially if you trailer to and from. I found there were less and less days I could set aside for those boating outings, and eventually sold it because it just didn't justify the expense. no one can fault you for putting your family above your wants, just think it through , does everyone in the family have alot going on or would they more likey all be available on those weekends ..either way good times will be had..

[threevalks]

Defination of a boat: A hole in the water that you throw money into.

[alph]

why don't you just rent one for the weekend?  for the two or three times a year that you'll do it you'd come out ahead.  my brother has a sailboat, it's been in the water twice now in three years!!  now that's fun!!

[txredneckmedic]

Damm....didnt think I would get crucified around here that bad . My problem is I dont get to spend time with my family as it is and I cant justify just driving for a couple hours and not spending time with them, especially with them being 2years, 4 years and 6 years old right now. Im working a job where im away 12 hours a day damm near everyday of the week and then usually on call at night or at the station pulling more hours. I have always loved the water and so does my wife and we try to get away to one of the local likes to go swim or fish a couple times a year, and now with this other lake I found being closer (and free) I plan on being there on most of my days off during the summer.

Dogg, I wouldnt mind something like that but Im looking for something especially with a trailer and something that I can pull a tuber or body boarder behind.

Trust me I hate to get rid of my bike but since I got married and had kids my prioritys have changed and will continue to be their happiness, I can make do later. Im not gonna just take off somewhere on the bike and leave the wife with the kids.

[smokey2255]

I have a 99 bass tracker I would be willing to work a trade on.  Give me a call, 217 508 8100

See you out there
Smokey

[laserpat]

 Congratulation on your marraige and commitment to your family

[txredneckmedic]

thanks pat, and alph....theres no places to rent boats around here.

[john]

don't listen to'em redneck ... ???
you take you wife and young children for a boat ride ...   
drag the two year old 'round the lake on the innertube first ...
 " are we having fun yet ? "

[Mr.BubblesVRCCDS0008]

You should do what ever you think best. I've got a valk and a boat and the boat hasn't been out in almost a year. I too work a 12 hr shift and I know how hard it is to use both toys  enough to enjoy them, If it weren't for the fact that I ride the valk to work everyday it wouldn't have the ride time on it either. It is ashame to have to let the valk go but you have to know what is best you. Enjoy your wife and kids and let the rest of the world take care of it'self.

[txredneckmedic]

http://viewmorepics.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=viewImage&friendID=18118054&albumID=158433&imageID=33953

Let me know if that dont work. Im gonna clean her up this weekend and take new pics

[BF]

As a native Floridian that has lived next to, across from, or by the water my entire life, I think I can speak with some authroity on the subjuct. 

The best boat you can have......is the one your friend owns. 

Trust me on that one.   

[DeathWishBikerDude]

#1
I live on the lake,and the guys just sit on their boats,and absorb the $600 per month dockage fees.
I rarely see boats out,in this economy.
Most boat owners are too cheap to buy fuel.
Keep the valk.
 

[txredneckmedic]

Well I dont have dockage fees where I am so I dont have to worry about it and i dont mind dropping some fuel into something ima use

[RP#62]

As a native Floridian that has lived next to, across from, or by the water my entire life, I think I can speak with some authroity on the subjuct. 

The best boat you can have......is the one your friend owns. 

Trust me on that one.   

I was just going to say, its much better to have a friend with a boat than it is to have a boat.
-RP

[Whistler]

Damm....didnt think I would get crucified around here that bad . My problem is I dont get to spend time with my family as it is and I cant justify just driving for a couple hours and not spending time with them, especially with them being 2years, 4 years and 6 years old right now. Im working a job where im away 12 hours a day damm near everyday of the week and then usually on call at night or at the station pulling more hours. I have always loved the water and so does my wife and we try to get away to one of the local likes to go swim or fish a couple times a year, and now with this other lake I found being closer (and free) I plan on being there on most of my days off during the summer.

Dogg, I wouldnt mind something like that but Im looking for something especially with a trailer and something that I can pull a tuber or body boarder behind.

Trust me I hate to get rid of my bike but since I got married and had kids my prioritys have changed and will continue to be their happiness, I can make do later. Im not gonna just take off somewhere on the bike and leave the wife with the kids.

txredneckmedic your doing the right thing I have been in your shoes and done exactly what you are doing. Yeah I missed riding, but I cherish the days and nights I spent with my family. My son at his high school graduation stated he would miss his times at the lake the most while serving in Iraq. I got a Valk when the kids left home and me and my wife can again enjoy riding. Kudos to you for thinking of your family first! JDW

[JimC]

I am joe the new guy around here, but I will chime in on this one because I was in the same position about 30 years ago. I sold my motorcycle for the family, it wasn't for the money, it wasn't for the boat, although I did buy one soon afterward. I sold it for time with them. I felt guilty when I was out riding the bike when my wife was at home with 4 little ones, about the same age as yours.

I am not sorry I did it, they are only young once!

It took about 20 years before I got another bike (GL1200) and it took until last weekend to get a Valkyrie. I commend you on your choice, as I'm sure that if there was a way to keep the Valk you would do so.
BUT, I do agree with the other guys, a boat is a BIG MONEY PIT. But they are fun for the family especially when the kids are young.

Jim

[Rattler]

 I feel for ya as I have had to do the same thing.  Due to lack of work. Just remember nothing and I mean nothing in this world replaces time with your family.

[cutter]

Txredneckmedic I understand your position. I have both and finding time to give to the family is a scheduling feat. I'm the only one who rides the steel pony and the rest of the family rides the 4 legged ones. I moved on to the latter ones cause I put that one away wet! LOL I commend you in your decision. The bike is my therapy and they know that but my kiddos are much older than yours.
My boy has spent more time on the water than me with his buddy's lately, I'm just glad I can do that for him. We do get out and have fun too. Next week I'll be taking my daughter to her Jr. Hi. School State finals rodeo in Gonzalaz. Lookin forward to spending the week with her.
  Now as for the bike, had a buddy get run off the road last week and he just so happens to ride a bumble bee. I'll let him know and he is doing fine, the bike? haven't heard.

[txredneckmedic]

Damm cutter that sucks about your friend. I hope the best for him. I know all about the 4 legged ponys also. My wife and daughters love them. We have a 3 yo mare that I need to get to the vet for a hernia(has had it since birth so im not in a big rush) and a 3 yo former roping horse that were working the bad habits out of so the kids can ride in a year or so. Me....im staying on the ground from now on. I was trying out a new horse back in january when she got spooked and took off on me....I ended up loosing one rein and got thrown off, landing on my back. Ended up with a broken vertebre in my back, dislocated my shoulder yet again and a bunch of road rash (I landed in hard caliche). I think ima stay on the ground where I belong.

[alph]

txredneckmedic

to be honest with you, I want you to know I've been busting your chops..... 

you will always be able to buy another cycle.

you will only have one chance in life to enjoy your children.  and yes, they will enjoy a boat more then the cycle (that is unless you get a side car!)  so, if you still want to sell your cycle, do it!  chances are when your kids get older and move on, maybe Honda will bring back the Valk, or maybe somthing better.

sincerely;

Al.

[txredneckmedic]

alph....i figured you were....no hard feelings

[alph]

i also work 12 hours, everyother weekend, two days off during the week with the kids in school and the wife working and all those darn "honeydue" lists out of the way, i usually love being on the road!  maybe you should just buy a cheaper boat, and an older cycle?  you'll have the best of both worlds!

[txredneckmedic]

Im thinking bout it....would love to find a old panhead project. I wish I could get 2 days off a week. Im actually getting 36 hours off this weekend so I gotta catch up on some honeydo's myself. Gotta work with the horses and trim the shoes a bit and enlarge the chicken pen a bit....although ima try and delay that a week or 2 lol.

[humshark]

Defination of a boat: A hole in the water that you throw money into.

B O A T -> B ring   O ut   A nother   T housand

I had my bikes and a boat for 5 years.  Just sold the boat - and the family is really mad.  While we never got out as much as we'd like on the boat, we did get out a couple times each year for some good ol times.

We have some of our best action stories from tugging kids all over the lakes in Wisconsin.  While I truly define my joy from riding - I also received great satisfaction from boating with the family.  Don;t look back -

PS - we now have the VALK, and FJR ( hers ) and a 97 Vulcan Hack ( sidecar ) that allows us to experience the fun of cycling as a family as well.  Guess what the kids like better at this age - 10, 7 & 5. 
10 & 7 - BOAT
5 - Motorcycle
Go figure!

[Evil One]

While we never got out as much as we'd like on the boat, we did get out a couple times each year for some good ol times.

This is the reason I believe in owning motorcycles and renting boats.
If you use it for fishing or fun every weekend, then by all means... buy.
However almost everyone I know that owns a boat uses it 4-5 times a year.


Jim

[PharmBoy]

You will never regret the time that you spend with your wife and kids.  Neither will they.  I coached baseball and soccer teams for years and when there wasn't a game of some kind on the weekend, we went fishing.  Kids love to go to farm ponds.  There, they can usually catch perch, crappy, bass, and catfish and they won't care one bit as to what they catch as long as it pulls a little on their line.  The larger lakes are fine for tubing & skiing, but fish are usually hard to find there.  My youngest two boys are now 34 & 31 and they still talk about all the fun we had together 20 to 25 years ago.  The youngest now has our boat and all my fishing gear.  I would say to do things as you see fit.  It is your life and you know what is important to you and your loved ones.  Best wishes to you!  You are an admirable person....JTL

[txredneckmedic]

well i washed the bike tonight and have her on the battery charger. Only found one bad point in the paint and I took a pic. I do have the windshield and little windshield things for the forks. Found out the front forks are leaking a lil bit and the speedo needs to be put back in the right place down on the wheel(was planning on doing both when I got new rubber). It does have the carb stacks, chrome backrest piece, mustang seat covers and tank bra, exhaust, led lights under the tank in a nice yellow color, air horn already installed, and im sure im still forgetting more. I decided not to wax her tonight as I wanted to show potential owners how she looks on a daily basis and not glamorize her. I dont want anything to be left out or hidden. I will be changing the oil and spark plugs in the next day or so

[FLAVALK]

Most of us old farts can recall a boat, car, truck, bike, whatever that we owned at one time in our younger years. We think back on that time and think, "I could kick myself for ever selling that thing". This may be your moment 

[FLAVALK]

I have been a proud boat owner since 1993. I have a smart-ass friend that fishes with me a lot (who has no boat) and I once asked him, "what the hell are you going to do if I ever sell my boat?" His answer......I'm getting a new friend!..A**hole

Keep the valk

[BamaDrifter64]

txredneckmedic,

With a decision like this looming, you have to just think of the most important issue of the matter.....








would your wife get nekkid and allow you to get lucky with her on the valk or the boat?????   

[txredneckmedic]

id probably be better off on the boat