Awash in Nostalgia

Memory Lane…BIG Time! I went looking for a pic of my ol’ RD-400 to illustrate a comment to “Late Night EIP” and stumbled upon this site. Oh, My…Oh, MY… That could easily be me, open face helmet and all, back in 1978.

The “Yamaha Tree” pic is oh-so-interesting, as is the 1977 RD-400 brochure, from which the pic for this post is taken. I owned four RDs over the course of my motorcycling career…two RD-350s, the aforementioned 1977 RD-400, and an RD-350LC (the “LC” is for Liquid Cooled). The LC was a willing accomplice in the most thrilling, gonzo, insane, and unique motorcycle experience I ever had: riding Mad Sunday (video here) in the Isle of Man during 1982’s TT week. “Mad Sunday” is when the authorities make the road across Mt. Snaefell one-way and allow anyone to ride it at any speed they desire…once the police clear you through (think “breath check”). I hit 130 mph (indicated, and maxed out) on the LC…and it was perfectly legal. You really need to watch that vid… I should note things have changed, apparently. Back in ’82 there were no cars: bikes only.

SN2 is in the process of putting the RD-400 back on the road, as we speak. I loved that bike and still do, as a matter of fact. Back in its day there wasn’t much, if anything, that could touch it on a twisty back road. Even today it would keep up with all but the best rider/bike combo.

“Of course, you could just pay attention and drive.”

What he said.

While I’m never gonna be in the same boat car(s) as Mr. Leno, I agree with his well-made point. And no, I am not a Luddite.

More here and —most especially— here. (via Insty, with the hit tip to Chap)

Didja see Lex’s April Fools post? It got me and most everyone else, as well. Although a few folks claim they weren’t hooked… I almost believe ‘em.