Earle Bartolome

98% there!

Sunday 21st Apr 2024

Got most of the wiring done and installed the licence plate and rear lights. Just a few more loose ends to tie up, but she's running and will make it to DGR 2024. Took her out on our maiden voyage today (just up and down and around the block). Starts right up and idles well. Runs great, but only got up to 3rd gear. Will do some longer rides to break her in. What a great feeling to be back on a bike again.

1972 BMW R75/5

Tuesday 2nd Apr 2024

After losing the 2 motorcycles I rode in the last 3 DGRs in a garage fire, I am getting another bike ready for the upcoming 2024 DGR. I acquired a 1972 BMW R75/5 in fair, somewhat running condition. As you'd expect from a 51 year old motorcycle, there were things to address before it was roadworthy. Old bikes are like onions. You have to peel back layers to get to a good starting point.

 

My original plan was to quickly get it back on the road. It was never registered in California, so before it even made it home, I made a trip to the DMV.

 

This restoration will prove a bit more challenging than my 1980 Honda CB750F build. Along with the 2 motorcycles, I lost all my tools in the fire, as well. To make things more difficult, my family has been displaced from our home since the fire in July 2023. This build will take place in the garage of our temporary rental property with tools purchased on an as needed basis. 

 

Our loss of use insurance coverage ran out on March 13, but my wonderful sister and brother-in-law welcomed us into there home (indefinitely), until our home is ready to move back into. To make things even more difficult, I'll now be working on the Beemer in their backyard, on the side of the house. There's not too much left to the do. Just have to rebuild the forks and finish wiring, so I think I'll be done soon… If the rain let's up. 

I'm Riding for Men's Health in The Distinguished Gentleman's Ride

Wednesday 27th Mar 2024 On Sunday the 19th of May 2024, I'm riding in The Distinguished Gentleman's Ride with fellow men and women across the globe to raise funds and awareness for prostate cancer and men's mental health on behalf of Movember. Men die on average 6 years earlier than women and for largely preventable reasons. The number of men that are suffering is growing, and we need to do something about that. So, before I press my tweed and polish my boots, I'm asking you to join me in raising funds and awareness for these causes by donating what you can for this meaningful cause and to help the men we love, live happier and healthier lives.