Quote:
Originally Posted by Tirefriar
Jozef, the curiosity is getting the best of me. Granted this is a 2003 with a singe plug but you already knew that going in. Given the mileage, added options and the visible condition this has to be one of the least expensive, if not the THE least expensive BCR on the market. Between Ohlins, Remus, cases and the tire hugger this bike has $2k in options (good luck in finding a decent Remus exhaust). Plus it sounds like the blemishes on the bike are reversible. So whats the story here?
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It's an early production BCR - which is why I was interested in it. Price was not a factor
at all. Like
some who not only ride or drive their machines - I also collect them. To reiterate. What you, me, or anyone else might offer up as 'Like New' can be difficult to quantify.
I spoke to Mr. Lewis and specifically asked "
Is there anything which would disappoint me upon seeing the machine which is not visible in the photos". I was particularly curious as one of the photos depicting the rear pillion cover not only shows mysteriously missing white squares which is part of the graphic scheme but also what appears to be errant dust or dirt and that is what should have triggered my admittedly OCD
not-for-me button. The side cases are also rough but those were a used optional purchase by Mr. Lewis which were ultimately inconsequential to my decision.
It just isn't a passionately cared for machine which Mr. Lewis will himself attest to as expressed to me. He's a Guzzi man and never really jelled with the BCR and -
in person- the lack of enthusiastic ownership shows. Wheels, painted surfaces, fasteners, show an aged patina, lacking luster and what I personally summate as an
don't-really-care-about-that-stuff as long as it runs well demeanor. Sure, it - like anything -
can be brought up to "Like New" or even overzealously better than new standards with enough resources on every front - that isn't what I was looking for. I was hoping for a well cared for
in every aspect original.
I do not believe for a moment Mr.Lewis intentionally misrepresented his motorcycle and appreciate not interpreting my decision to pass on the purchase as such. I don't believe anyone would drive a thousand miles without first being relatively certain of what they'll find upon arrival. - We ALL have our own standards and criteria and sometimes very different opinions on condition. In reading 'Like New' in Mr. Lewis`original, unrevised, posting I felt a follow up call was exercising due diligence before a trek out to see the machine and to hopefully seal the deal with a fabulous thousand mile ride back home. This, unfortunately was not to be.
Is it a good deal for someone? As long as it meets
their own criteria absolutely. However, "
like new" or even anywhere
near new - no.
In revising this listing and removing that nomenclature Mr. Lewis did the right thing as I know some of you are just as crazed and OCD afflicted as I am.
I know I am not alone.
Here's a listing of one of my bikes, an R12S - which was sold to a fellow pelican some years ago. It should suffice in showing what
I personally consider as being a 'none finer'
pre-owned, used example, yet even this machine was not what I would ever refer to as "
like new".
On my personal 1-10 scale this one rated an 8+ to 9.
https://forums.pelicanparts.com/r1100s-bikes-parts-sale/670949-sale-r12s-none-finer.html
Also, in the event others may inquire. I did not ride the bike, though I did inform Mr. Lewis that I'd like to start the machine whilst cold on its sidestand to assess the well known 259 platform chain tensioner rattle if at all present. It was fine.
and THAT -
is the story
J.S.