Ride safe everyone

[_Sheffjs_]

Sherry and I have been with the Florida group almost three years now and I
feel that we have tried to bring positive things to this group by opening our
cottage for pizza gatherings and planning and organizing many rides with new
roads and eaten places. Lately we feel the complaints about our rides and the
obvious hate of the new 1800c posted freely and in detail on an open forum
from so many fronts now dictates that it is time we go offline, We may ride
with some members who enjoy and appreciate my rides and my awesome bike.
 I have opinions about motorcycles however I will not degrade another persons
bike on an open forum.  As always, ride safe everyone. 

[DDT (12)]

Really hate to see a post like this.. although, I do understand the frustration. All groups have this sort of thing, and as you must have learned a long time ago, the detractors and complainers comments will always outnumber the positive, appreciative feedback one receives. Too bad, but that's the way it seems to this long time observer, anyway.

I'm not sure we've ever met, but once upon a time I was an active member of the Florida Valk riders, and I was amazed at the wholesome comradeship that this group had. More than any other group I've been with, the VRCC, and particularly the Florida group, seemed to always be a cut above any other. Individuals, of course, made this happen...

From afar I've kept an eye on the Florida group over the years, and I've watched in pleasant surprise at how things have continued on... again, because of 'spark plugs' and selfless 'givers' and the efforts they've made to keep things going... folks like you and your partner...

Even at this distance, it's obvious to this interested party, that you have indeed gone above and beyond, and I salute you for all you've done. I hope you will reconsider, because things wouldn't be the same without you! You make a difference... you cast a much longer shadow than you could possibly imagine, and... well... you know...

Whatever you finally decide, though, please know that there are folks you didn't know about who've appreciated your efforts and contributions... I've wanted to make some of your events, rides, etc., but things never seemed to work out for me to do so... I sincerely do hope there will be another time, so I can make one or some of them... Thank you.

DDT

[Flask]

Really hate to see a post like this.. although, I do understand the frustration. All groups have this sort of thing, and as you must have learned a long time ago, the detractors and complainers comments will always outnumber the positive, appreciative feedback one receives. Too bad, but that's the way it seems to this long time observer, anyway.

I'm not sure we've ever met, but once upon a time I was an active member of the Florida Valk riders, and I was amazed at the wholesome comradeship that this group had. More than any other group I've been with, the VRCC, and particularly the Florida group, seemed to always be a cut above any other. Individuals, of course, made this happen...

From afar I've kept an eye on the Florida group over the years, and I've watched in pleasant surprise at how things have continued on... again, because of 'spark plugs' and selfless 'givers' and the efforts they've made to keep things going... folks like you and your partner...

Even at this distance, it's obvious to this interested party, that you have indeed gone above and beyond, and I salute you for all you've done. I hope you will reconsider, because things wouldn't be the same without you! You make a difference... you cast a much longer shadow than you could possibly imagine, and... well... you know...

Whatever you finally decide, though, please know that there are folks you didn't know about who've appreciated your efforts and contributions... I've wanted to make some of your events, rides, etc., but things never seemed to work out for me to do so... I sincerely do hope there will be another time, so I can make one or some of them... Thank you.

DDT

Could not of said it any better Bruce !!!!!!

[TJ]

Really hate to see a post like this.. although, I do understand the frustration. All groups have this sort of thing, and as you must have learned a long time ago, the detractors and complainers comments will always outnumber the positive, appreciative feedback one receives. Too bad, but that's the way it seems to this long time observer, anyway.

I'm not sure we've ever met, but once upon a time I was an active member of the Florida Valk riders, and I was amazed at the wholesome comradeship that this group had. More than any other group I've been with, the VRCC, and particularly the Florida group, seemed to always be a cut above any other. Individuals, of course, made this happen...

From afar I've kept an eye on the Florida group over the years, and I've watched in pleasant surprise at how things have continued on... again, because of 'spark plugs' and selfless 'givers' and the efforts they've made to keep things going... folks like you and your partner...

Even at this distance, it's obvious to this interested party, that you have indeed gone above and beyond, and I salute you for all you've done. I hope you will reconsider, because things wouldn't be the same without you! You make a difference... you cast a much longer shadow than you could possibly imagine, and... well... you know...

Whatever you finally decide, though, please know that there are folks you didn't know about who've appreciated your efforts and contributions... I've wanted to make some of your events, rides, etc., but things never seemed to work out for me to do so... I sincerely do hope there will be another time, so I can make one or some of them... Thank you.

DDT

Could not of said it any better Bruce !!!!!!

    

[Tundra]

Thanks Jerry and Sherry for all you do and have done.
 I'll ride with you anytime. (If you'll ride with an ST)
Love you guys

[f6gal]

Jerry,

I understand your frustration.  In fact, some time ago I made a post on the main message board that all the negativity was driving away new Valkyrie riders.  I simply posted that "we get it, you don't like it"; but can we be respectful of people and their rides.  In response to that post, I was attacked to the point that I removed the thread.  It wasn't so much that people posted their disapproval of the bike, but that they felt the need to repeatedly reiterate their opinion.  They don't have to keep telling us, we heard it the first 100 times.  When we created the 1800 board, some people even felt the need to go on there and express their negative opinions... un-freaking-believable.

All that said, the negativity has mostly quelled on those boards.  I did not realize it was an ongoing problem on this board... I apologize for that.  It's funny, there are many people that remain on these boards after moving on to other bikes; they do not receive any of the vitriol to which new Valk owners are subjected.  Jerry, I sincerely hope your post will open the eyes of these people to their hurtful posts.  I also hope you will reconsider, as you are obviously a positive influence on the Florida chapter.  

Connie aka f6gal

[John Schmidt]

I have to agree with DDT and F6Gal, they have stated what and how we all feel. My suggestion; don't isolate yourselves. You guys have most definitely added to the vigor of the Fla. group and are appreciated for what you've done. All groups go through phases, and I was beginning to think the Fla. group was dying off. Then suddenly, little by little, new members started to emerge and the entire bunch seemed to be reenergized. We have you and others to thank for that, don't think for a minute it isn't recognized or appreciated.  

[Grumpy]

Sorry to see that post. Jerry I have always enjoyed your rides.  No matter what you ride, Honda, harley etc, and any model. Some one will always bad mouth it. Some times I think it is jealously. if they do not have one or can not afford it, they will bad mouth it. stick around, I will ride with you any time. And you can complain about me being slow. 

[DD]

We love our Valk, but after the 1st time we met with the group (1999) in Eustis I realized it's more than the bikes, it's the people.  that's what really has kept us around, even with comments about it being a trike.  I just learned how to avoid them.   
It would be a great lost if you 2 leave the group.     Do what's best you & Take care of you.   xoxo

[Tourus]

     Jerry, I hope you will include me when you plan a ride. The first ride I went on was with you, Sherry, and Nick and we went to River Ratz. I have lived in hernando county for 20 years and never heard of the place. Those are the kind of restaurants I like (old Florida) on the water, maybe a little run down and that's a good thing. Without the Pizza party I would not have met a lot of members, I met Bert that day and bought my backrest from him. As far as your bike, I think it looks great, still haven't seen the Tourer. If everyone rode the same bike that would be F&?king boring. You have 2 great looking bikes,you lucky man. Hopefully you will reconsider and post a ride.

You 2 Take Care
Steve
 
 

[_Sheffjs_]

Obviously it was a massive conundrum to come to this point and post this statement knowing some that have supported us and enjoy our company and rides, are also effected. And yes I see this common reminder after the OP.  I totally believe with support and structure agreed upon the rides can be worked out. That requires group rider’s positive support. The rides would probably be safer as well. The 1800c and its open forum bashing has now passed a point with me and saying “It is just my opinion” and “don’t take it personal” doesn’t give you a get out of jail free card with me. Simply re read what you have said and think about it. It is my bike. Awesome that I decided to buy this amazing bike! Think, am I the only one that has disappeared from this forum lately? Why is that?  If this board wants Jerry and Sherry back in the saddle planning organizing and leading rides and having pizza parties call this bashing out. It is not needed and does not edify this open forum.  And as for rides support me.  Your call.  To those that have bashed my bike -man up- a simple PM would be nice.    I don’t feel I am asking too much.     

[BCoy]

I am saddened to read this; hopefully you guys reconsider your decision, we have enjoyed your rides and places to eat.
Thank you.
Ride Safe
Bill

[flsix]

Wow Jerry, you could have knocked me over with a feather after I finished reading this. I have always had a great time with you two whether it was a ride and eat somewhere or a Cottage Pizza Party. I'm not able to make it up your way as often as I want just because of distance but it's always a good time. If I've said anything to prompt the feelings you're having I apologize and hope you will reconsider and continue to post here. You and Sherry would truly be missed.

    Jeff

[_Sheffjs_]

Jeff you are great and no you haven't posted anything on the board I have ever read.



 

[OLDFRT]

Sorry to hear that you feel this way, Jerry. I stated that your's was the only one I have seen that I like at all, with the Mods you have done. Yes, I said that the new Valks were Butt-Ugly, too, and that I would not keep one if it was given to me, but that is just my opinion. I would sell it, and put the money toward something that I liked better. There are a lot of people out there that don't like Harleys, either, but their opinion doesn't mean a tinker's damn to me. If I like what I own and ride, I sure wouldn't let someone else's opinion keep me from riding with my friends. As far as the rides you have organized, I haven't heard anything except some people do not want to rid as fast as you do. I thought that you and I had come up with a pretty good solution to that problem during an extensive conversation.

I went back to the top and read your original post again, and I came away with this:  You are acting like anything negative that anyone says about the new Valk is a personal attack on you., and nobody is allowed to have an opinion, and state it publicly, that you do not approve of.  JMNSHO

[CrankinRankin]

Appreciate the time you and Sherrie spend getting us all together for rides & eats.  Also like seeing every riders pride & joy and personal touches on their bikes. Lets ride safe.....together.

[TallRider]

Can't believe what i,'ve been reading here. Jerry I am a little jealous of your bike actually and after seeing what you have done to it wish I bought the black one I demoed at the dealer. I've driven hundreds of miles to meet your group after reading your threads here and which I could make more of the rides. Personal commitments keep me from getting up that way more but will be sourly disappointed if you drop out. I've really enjoyed meeting the group an am hoping to catch you guys again. Reading this forum and posts in general I've always kept in mind you need to keep your cool over a lot being said. Believe me you have a cool bike. Love yours love mine and really like seeing all the original Valks and how everyone enjoys and tricks there rides. Its the group as bikers not the bikes that should make the bond. Hope you reconsider as I would sure be disappointed if we could not meet again.

[_Sheffjs_]

Sorry to hear that you feel this way, Jerry. I stated that your's was the only one I have seen that I like at all, with the Mods you have done. Yes, I said that the new Valks were Butt-Ugly, too, and that I would not keep one if it was given to me, but that is just my opinion. I would sell it, and put the money toward something that I liked better. There are a lot of people out there that don't like Harleys, either, but their opinion doesn't mean a tinker's damn to me. If I like what I own and ride, I sure wouldn't let someone else's opinion keep me from riding with my friends. As far as the rides you have organized, I haven't heard anything except some people do not want to rid as fast as you do. I thought that you and I had come up with a pretty good solution to that problem during an extensive conversation.

I went back to the top and read your original post again, and I came away with this:  You are acting like anything negative that anyone says about the new Valk is a personal attack on you., and nobody is allowed to have an opinion, and state it publicly, that you do not approve of.  JMNSHO

You sure can have your opinion. Person to person or shout it from a roof top. what I am saying is it does not belong on this forum. The rules state bashing. And as I stated it is my bike, so if I do take it personal am I wrong?  Like stated, after 100 times it gets old.  Don, carefully reading and re-reading your statement about the 1800c I see a positive statement about my bike and an honest thought about it. I have called out the ones to I felt crossed the line.  And yes we had a good talk and a great solution to fast and slow group. If this group wants these rides to happen and they support via positive participation. I am in.  If people can respect my bike to at a minimum by not bashing it on the board. I am in.    Is that fair?     

       

[John Schmidt]

Jerry, keep one thing in mind; the various State boards, like the General Board, is an open forum. It is available for discussion of any and all subjects, makes little difference if it steps on toes or whether it is political, religion, brand of bike.....you name it, it's open season. And, with the exception of name calling and vulgarity, it's generally not considered "bashing" on a personal level. Not every forum I'm part of will allow that and I'm not so sure but what that might be a good thing except it gets pretty boring. I have to agree with Oldfrt re. his ending statement, because I also came away with the same feeling; "anything negative that anyone says about the new Valk is a personal attack on you........"  Seriously, nothing could be further from the truth.

As for the new Valkyrie, the general opinion is that it's not what most of the original Valk owners were looking for, myself included, and as a result were disappointed with the bike when it came out. As for myself (and some others), I've been riding 2-wheeled contraptions longer than many in our group have been alive(over 60 yrs.). I personally prefer a bike that's not all cluttered and hidden with plastic, and by stating so doesn't by ANY stretch of the imagination mean I'm casting aspersions on your or any one else's new ride. Would I buy one for myself? No! Would I keep it if won in a drawing? No! But that's just my personal taste/feelings, and has nothing to do with you or your choices. I've admired your energy from a distance but have never spoken of it, and frankly admire what you've done with the bike since you got it. You've enhanced the overall appearance of it ten fold and are to be commended for your efforts. You have a right to be proud of it. Just know that for all the comments you're referring to re. the new Valk, I've had as many or more against me and mine over the years. Not just my current Valk, but some of the others I've owned. My attitude was quite simple.....you didn't pay for it so go pound sand. One thing I never did was to take any of it personal.

At one time in the last couple years I was toying with the idea of buying an F6B, even with all the Tupperware. Then I got to thinking, God willing I have another half dozen years of riding left which will put me well into my 80's. Do I really want to put out the money for a different bike, of any brand, and start all over "making it mine?" Quite simply, it didn't make sense. To my way of thinking, I have a beautiful bike that's as reliable as any of them out there. Will go as hard and fast as I want it to, and do it more comfortably than any other machine I've ever owned...including a bevy of Wings. You need to reconsider, when it comes to how others feel about the 1800 series treat it like water on a duck's back. See ya down the road. 

[_Sheffjs_]

No John, I don't take it as a personal attack on me at all. I take it personally as an attack on the bike I own.   that is why I announced my exit.  And I don't want to hear any more opinions about the 1800c I am full up, that is why I announced my exit.    I hear a lot of reconsider, when my simple points that are put out that would keep us here are not considered.  Ok   Go back to the OP.

[Bronxboy]

Geeeze I went out of town to Orlando today and all hell broke loose   I for one always enjoy the company and rides with Jerry & Sherry. I have always rode in mixed groups and not everyone is going to agree on what bike is best, but the one common thing this group has is the quality of it's people.

I truly hope that this will work itself out and we can accept without criticism and be respectful of other peoples choices? Everyone here knows I'm easy, and have brought in many new members to the FL Group and the one thing they all love about this group is the comradery and friendships that have been built thru our passion for riding. It's not what we ride but who we ride with 

[Valkahuna]

Wow! Just saw this and am surprised. While I have not ridden with you but once, and been to your place only one time, I've always liked you and Sherry and was appreciative of your efforts to do things with and for this group. You've certainly been active on this board, and often I've been envious that I was not closer to you, and able to join you on your breakfast rides. But, one has to chose where one spends the time that is so precious, and fleeting, especially as we get older and family and grandkids become Ever more important. So goes life!

While I personally am not a fan of the styling of the new Valkyrie, I have not seen anything on the board that would be "bashing". I've seen lots of opinions, and as the old saying goes, opinions are like a**holes, everybody has one. So I am not surprised to see them expressed, especially on an open forum. What does surprise however is that you are so offended by this that you would "take your ball and go home", but then again, your are entitled to do what you like. I'm not sure that you calling people out and asking for apologies is the best way to proceed, but again, it's how you feel and your entitled.

I won't PM you, and don't even know if you are ticked off at me for the one occasion where I commented about my feelings about the "NEW" Vakyrie. It was where a caption was asked for when Sixlow was sitting on a new Valk at Bert's. Here is a copy of what I said:

This is too tempting to not offer a caption:

Mike thinking to himself, "Hmm, let's see, if I cover those strange side pods, replace the front fender, headlight, add a reasonable windshield, figure how to add luggage and a seat that actually matched the style of the rest of the bike, and replaced the gas tank, this might actually work for me. But man, that motor is suweet!"

Sorry, but I just could not resist.  Cheesy Evil Evil Evil crazy2 Embarrassed Lips Sealed

So, that is the only comment I ever posted about the new Valk, and if that offended you, I'm sorry. And no, even though you said it is meaningless, it certainly was not personal, nor directed towards you. But you must have a thinner skin than me, for if I took all the things that over the years have and are being said about HD or other twin cylinder MCs, and the people that ride them, I should have been offended long ago. But then again, this is a forum, and people have opinions that although counter to mine, they are entitled to.

So Jerry, you need to do what you must, but I would suggest that you do not hold peoples' opinions against them. The fact that it is now possible to get New Valks for a steal is reflective of the fact that most folks do not find them attractive, but that should not, and does not diminish their worth if YOU like them. I have said before that a MC only needs to make one person happy - it's owner.

I've had quite a varied collection of bikes over the years, and have never let their popularity decide what I would buy and ride. Nor has it ever caused me to call out those who did not like my bike, or more specifically, and publicly stated their opinion. That's kind of juvenile in my opinion. I will be sorry to see you leave, but do what you must! You will be missed, and ride safe!

[hubcapsc]

The fact that it is now possible to get New Valks for a steal is reflective of the fact that most folks do not find them attractive

Dusty new unwanted original Valkyries sat around in motorcycle shops for years at
fire-sale prices after they quit making them...



My opinion is... well... boring...  ... but this forum sure is a good
place to have available...

-Mike

[_Sheffjs_]

Yes Pete it pissed me off. And yes I accept your apology and would be happy to kick tires with you. 

[Bert AKA,Valkaholic]

Yes Pete it pissed me off. And yes I accept your apology and would be happy to kick tires with you. 

 It Looks Like Jerry Is Pissed Off At Me  For Posting My Opinion On The Thread Comparing The New Valkyrie To The Old One !

IT WAS NOT A THREAD ASKING IF ANYONE LIKED OR DIS-LIKED JERRY''S NEW VALKYRIE !

Well Jerry,With This And The Negative Personal Messages That You Have Sent My Way I Am Sorry That You Got "BUTT HURT" Over My Comments On The New Valkyrie, NOT YOUR NEW VALKYRIE !

And If You Can Not Accept My Apologies That I Sent To You In A PM  Stating That It Was My Opinion And That I Did Not Mean To Hurt Anyone's Feelings, It Will Just Have To Be Something That You'll Have To Deal With !

I Am Still Trying To Figure Out Why You Chose To Single Me Out When It Comes To BASHING YOU And Your BIKE !

I Have No Intention Of Making Anyone Mad And I Hope That You Get This Sorted Out !
 As I Stated I Did Not Say A Word About YOU OR YOUR NEW VALKYRIE !

Ride Safe !
 Bert

[Pappy!]

Hot Damn!.....for once it isn't me that posted and got myself in trouble. Am one of the only ones that DO like the new Valk and always have.
As far as the rides go you two better get your butts in gear and head up this way once in a while. You are welcome at the house anytime you don't feel like heading home. This goes for any of you as well. Our house is always open.
Plus, Sherry always give me those great hugs and I will miss those if you don't show up occasionally! Sorry, Jerry......she has a better grin too.

Am betting that your post will nip any future comments in the bud although it is and has been past the bud, into the bloom, and should have wilted long ago. The group seems to have more than it's share of good folks so I am betting those who need to PM you will do so and those who aren't willing to step up to that plate?....Well.....so be it.

See you soon hopefully.

[FloridaValkRyder]

Wow..this is an amazing thread. I guess I'm oblivious to what has been said about the new Valkyrie. I don't like the styling much myself, nor the F6B for that matter, or Harleys, Kawasakis, most Yamahas....
I'm sorry that it has gotten to this point for you Jerry and Sherri. The folks you have issues with are really great folks and I'm reasonably certain they did not mean to offend you. I'm fixing to be a non-rider but still plan to lurk around and hopefully show up for an occasional ride because of the people who come to them. I hope you guys reconsider and that saying what's on your mind helps to clear the air. I personally love you guys and have always appreciated your hospitality. Hang in there my friend. The board needs people like you.

[_Sheffjs_]

Yes, I do feel the 1800c issue is sorted. Burt you are not singled out moreover the last to fill the irritation cup. Or hopefully the last.  Folks I belong to a Motercycle club where a large part of the members hate my bike. That is ok, however I do not want to belong to a club that frequently regurgitates those dislikes on an open forum.  That is not me being hurt, that is me pissed.  Recognize and realize what has been posted from the Administrator that us 1800c folk have had on our 1800 board and what started the filling of the cup. Some have been on the 1800 board and know this. If 1500 F6B folk continue it will drive us away, it is that simple. What I have done is sent out a beacon, and I fully understand why others have decided to just fade away rather than do so. I have had many texts and PM messages of people who have decided to either leave the board quietly or reduce their footprint to a fraction of their past involvement. They are coming out of their seat screaming. They have had a different kind of situation that caused this outcome. I feel it was admirable on my part to do so. If I have rocked the boat I hope I have done so to the eventual positive. I do not hold onto things once dealt with.  I sent the OP so that it was simply understood why we were gone rather than members wondering.

Next, Burt this is also about a ride that had nothing to do with you. A ride where I felt terrible that Mike Liz and Tony drove far to meet us and we were 1.25 hours late. I made sure they were notified we would be late but Mike and Liz rate massively high with Jerry and Sherry.  This is a ride where many things went wrong and gave me pause to re-evaluate the rides including my error of not considering the people who do not want to go as fast. HubcapSC has given me good words taken from the wild bunch that I have kept.  To the San An group who is probably a tad sore with me as there are innocent people affected I have this. Yes I know this has effected you, Do you want to continue rides as before? Then how about a meeting to discuss what it would take to not have another ride like the Stumpknockers ride. I spend way more time planning the rides than you might think and yes I do not use GPS. I have spent hours trying to strain out more new country roads and I still find them, I do this for you as well as Sherry and I.  The rest I leave to this board to decide. If this is wrong toss me to the literal wind.  I feel it took guts to do this.

[John Schmidt]

a large part of the members hate my bike
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
That's a fairly strong overstatement when using the term "hate."  The majority don't hate the new Valk, they just don't care for the styling but that 1800 engine is an engineering marvel. In fact one guy is so struck with it he's building a version of the original Valkyrie with an 1800 engine. Many of us were downright disappointed with the design of the Valk, I'm much like another post that refers to being a mechanical person. When it comes to any kind of equipment, I want to be able to see it as well as hear it, not cover it up with a bunch of plastic. If you've ever walked up to an old bi-wing airplane with the radial sitting out in the open and everything is gleaming back at you, you'd know what I mean. Then to climb aboard, fire it up and feel the power as it roars to life, it shakes your very soul. I don't get that from the new Valk, pure and simple, and yes.....I've ridden one. It handles great, brakes are great, it's quiet and powerful. But it takes more than that for many riders. Now, I get on my first gen Valkyrie and like yesterday after a short riding hiatus, when I fired it up it moved me deep down inside. I'm suddenly that 13 yr. old kid taking his first ride on a homebuilt contraption(not my first one however). I cruise on down the street with the pipes rumbling and heads turn, folks point and wave, I get to the six lane nearby and when I pull out I crack the throttle. The sound is something to behold, much like the thrill I got shoving the throttle on the old radial bi-wing. It shoves you back in the seat and all that power is right out there for all to see and hear. Again....it moves me in a way the new Valk didn't on any of the test rides I took. One even had loud pipes on it, big deal. They were louder than stock but the sound didn't exude power.

If you would go back and research some of my comments when the new Valk first came out, I think you'll be surprised. A lot of the membership were voicing negative opinions, although I personally didn't like the styling I suggested they all wait for the aftermarket manufacturers to gear up. I felt, and still do, that with a good showing in bike sales the aftermarket would get fired up, making the bike's appearance more appealing. The aftermarket hasn't taken off as I thought it might and the new Valk prices appear to be dropping, a possible indicator of desirability. Time will tell.

One last tidbit re. personal choices. A good friend asked me why I didn't have one of the new model Valkyries, I told him there's two things someone my age doesn't need: 1) a fast high performance motorcycle; 2) a mistress. Both will get you killed!    

[Valkahuna]

The fact that it is now possible to get New Valks for a steal is reflective of the fact that most folks do not find them attractive

Dusty new unwanted original Valkyries sat around in motorcycle shops for years at
fire-sale prices after they quit making them...



My opinion is... well... boring...  ... but this forum sure is a good
place to have available...

-Mike

Very true Mike. They sat around for quite some time in fact. I looked at them in 1997, and thought they were "different". Looked at them again in 1999, and bought a new HD, but liked and respected them by then. Finally bought my 2001 used in 2010 and now celebrate it's uniqueness. I'll probably keep it forever and let my heirs deal with it.

And yes it is great to have this forum to be able to express one's opinions. If we all liked the same things it would be a boring world. The discussions would be just as opinionated whether we picked guns, trucks, cars, golf balls, motorcycles, etc. to discuss. Heck, we probably couldn't agree about cornflakes! That is why different brands and models exist. Liking one and not the other is normal, and should not be taken as anything other than what it is - a preference.

[OLDFRT]

To the San An group who is probably a tad sore with me as there are innocent people affected I have this. Yes I know this has effected you, Do you want to continue rides as before? Then how about a meeting to discuss what it would take to not have another ride like the Stumpknockers ride. I spend way more time planning the rides than you might think and yes I do not use GPS. I have spent hours trying to strain out more new country roads and I still find them, I do this for you as well as Sherry and I.  The rest I leave to this board to decide. If this is wrong toss me to the literal wind.  I feel it took guts to do this.

Jerry, The "meeting" idea sounds like a winner all the way around. You and I have discussed a number of topics (nothing earth shattering) that we can bring up, that I firmly believe will result in a bunch of input that will make our rides that much more enjoyable. Looking forward to it.

[John Schmidt]

Just don't get too structured on these rides, that's the main reason I left the GWRRA. I'm still a member but got tired of the rides being planned and laid out right down to the nit. And only certain people could lead or bring up the rear in each group. Screw that, I joined for the camaraderie of the people and the company on rides. But if you lagged behind even a little bit you were questioned about it, so I quit attending. Our Fla. VRCC group has never been structured in such a manner, I like it that way. Just me, others obviously feel different.

Generally, our rides haven't been that way, although some(often) have been rather fast. If some riders feel the need to haul butt, I'll meet you there. It's a motorcycle ride, not the Isle of Mann. 

[darksidemxer]

Hey jerry,i sent u an email via the link under your name. I am game to ride any time any pace u name the place lol

[_Sheffjs_]

Just don't get too structured on these rides, that's the main reason I left the GWRRA. I'm still a member but got tired of the rides being planned and laid out right down to the nit. And only certain people could lead or bring up the rear in each group. Screw that, I joined for the camaraderie of the people and the company on rides. But if you lagged behind even a little bit you were questioned about it, so I quit attending. Our Fla. VRCC group has never been structured in such a manner, I like it that way. Just me, others obviously feel different.

Generally, our rides haven't been that way, although some(often) have been rather fast. If some riders feel the need to haul butt, I'll meet you there. It's a motorcycle ride, not the Isle of Mann. 

John, that is good advice and how about we send you the final 10 commandments for the JS approval.  I'm sure it will pass with a smiley face grade.   

[OLDFRT]

John, I don't think you will have to worry about too much "structure" on our rides. Jerry and I have just a couple of ideas, and of course all are welcome to add their input. Mostly, it is safety issues, and making all the riders feel comfortable while riding.

[MelbourneDan]

Jerry,
Sorry to see your post. Although I have only hooked up with the group twice, once was at one of your Pizza gatherings. Both Lori and I enjoyed the company. Personally one of the things I like most about this group is the fact that it's not Valk snobbish. I've seen invites to friends with Harley's and other brands, makes for an enjoyable group.

Have fun and ride safe.

Dan

[John Schmidt]

John, that is good advice and how about we send you the final 10 commandments for the JS approval.  I'm sure it will pass with a smiley face grade.   
[/quote]
There's only one set of the Ten Commandments I try to observe. All other don't need my approval. 

[texaninsouthfl]

As someone new to the region and having only met most of you a couple of times during the Leesburg Bikefest, I have been reluctant to comment. But... as one who hopes to join y'all on rides when possible, I will weigh in on the structured vs unstructured ride issue. I really dislike group rides with a bunch of rules and plans.  Maybe it's just the part of me that doesn't like to be told what to do. I don't care if some one else wants to ride point... and I don't care if some one else wants the six. If the group is riding unbearably slow, I'm going around... if I want to slow down and sight see... I'm going to slow down and enjoy the view and catch up later. I don't begrudge anyone else the same and if you pester me about it, I'm likely to tell the you to go fornicate with yourself.

Which is pretty much the same reaction I'd have to someone ragging on my ride. Jerry, it's YOUR bike... YOU love it and that's what matters. If someone came up and offered an unsolicited opinion, I'd probably say, "Well, I think your wife is ugly too but she's yours so my opinion doesn't matter does it? 

[Pappy!]

Except for the larger group around the Tampa area, that is pretty much what happens anyway... a few here and a few there.
Occasionally a few of us from up this way will ride to wherever and meet the rest of them but usually it is folks coming from a bunch of different directions to a RTE location.  Very loose rules, if any. Your blood pressure should remain very low !!

[Valkahuna]

As someone new to the region and having only met most of you a couple of times during the Leesburg Bikefest, I have been reluctant to comment. But... as one who hopes to join y'all on rides when possible, I will weigh in on the structured vs unstructured ride issue. I really dislike group rides with a bunch of rules and plans.  Maybe it's just the part of me that doesn't like to be told what to do. I don't care if some one else wants to ride point... and I don't care if some one else wants the six. If the group is riding unbearably slow, I'm going around... if I want to slow down and sight see... I'm going to slow down and enjoy the view and catch up later. I don't begrudge anyone else the same and if you pester me about it, I'm likely to tell the you to go fornicate with yourself.

Which is pretty much the same reaction I'd have to someone ragging on my ride. Jerry, it's YOUR bike... YOU love it and that's what matters. If someone came up and offered an unsolicited opinion, I'd probably say, "Well, I think your wife is ugly too but she's yours so my opinion doesn't matter does it?  

For what's it's worth, I don't enjoy being told what to do either.   BUT...when you go on a group ride there are a lot of safety issues involved. Such as keeping spacing to stop other vehicles from disrupting the group by seperating it. Also, keeping pace with the group is important. Another big No-No is passing everyone up , since doing that endangers everyone else. Slowing up or stopping, and having the sweep rider pass you by is also a dumb thing to do. There are a lot of books and articles written on the subject of group rides. They have been written for a reason.

It sounds to me like you should just get the groups destination, go there at your own pace and whichever way you prefer to go, and then just meet up with them at wherever they are going.

Edit: As Pappy has said, around where you, he, and I are, it's usually just a couple of us doing exactly that, at our own pace.

That would be less frustrating for you, and safer for the group. Riding as a group means just that - you ride in a group. When done correctly it is safer than solo, but when done to suit everyone else's whims it's a mess at best, and a dangerous thing at worst. I often will not ride with a group either, unless I know what the skill level and habbits of the riders in the group.

I've got a couple of riding buddies that I can trust to not run into me, crowd me off the road, and or do things that endanger me or themselves. Since we are on the subject of group rides, IF you find yourself in a group that makes you feel like you are riding over your head from a speed or skill standpoint, do the SAFE thing and tell them you are not comfortable at the pace they are setting, and proceed on your own. Also those riding point have the responsibility to be sure that those following can do so safely. For this reason, knowing the skills of those in the group is important.

What every rider needs to know is that they themselves are ultimately responsible for their own safety. DO NOT RIDE OVER YOUR HEAD OR SKILL LEVEL, DON'T BLINDLY RUN RED LIGHTS TO "KEEP UP", AND DON'T ASSUME THAT YOU CAN CRUISE THROUGH THE SAME STOP SIGN AS THE GUY AHEAD OF YOU WITHOUT LOOKING AND STOPPING IF NEEDED.