Test Day

Today we had a visit from Carleton Palmer.  Then, 6 Vincents rode from Portland south to Porpoise Cove a favorite seafood eatery.  Sounds simple?  Just 30 miles, right?  Alas the route along US#1 had big traffic and was littered with stop lights.  This would be a challenge for any Vincent, never mind a group.  We kept getting separated and lost.  We found a better way home along faster open roads with beautiful Maine seaside scenery.  Lunch was open-air, clam cakes, lobster roles, delicious.  

The bikes and riders were certainly tested.  Two of the six were Richard's friends from the UK who were both completely new to Vincents.  We had to go through starting procedures and all the Vincent quirks that have become normal for the rest of us.  Having not ridden for a year, I had to exercise muscles that had sadly fallen into disuse.  I see a long soak in hot water tonight.  Everyone passed with flying colours.  There were smiles all around.

Once back at the ranch, the crew had set up 4 stands.  All the bikes were put on the stands and thoroughly inspected for loose nuts and bolts, leaks, etc.  They even interviewed each rider to search for any running faults.  These went on a clipboard and were added to the work.  Pedals and controls were adjusted and problems were fixed.  It was minor today.  All 6 bikes took a real pounding but brought their riders home.  This degree of professionalism was a shock to me and more so to our UK guests. 

This will happen after every day.  All the bikes will be fettled and readied for the next day.  Everything is there, power, lights, music, shelter, and food.  It is a rolling party, but with discipline, procedures, and rules.  The biggest rule is to have fun.