Two Wheel Love

Girl Power

2012-02-15T14:11:00.001-08:00

Frozen Metal

2012-01-20T06:56:00.000-08:00

Don't let this happen to your bike. Spring is right around the corner!

2011-04-16T20:17:00.001-07:00

Brown Dog Welding on Etsy

2011-02-14T08:39:00.000-08:00

Metal moto sculptures by Brown Dog Welding. ALL proceeds go to two non-profit organizations: Lifebuilders Detroit and Home Fur-ever.

Life is Art!

2011-01-20T08:38:00.001-08:00

I sure don't claim to be a professional photographer, but yesterday as I was living life to the fullest I just had to include taking advantage of some rare sunshine here in the Pacific Northwest. I hopped on my motorcycle and took her to the beach. Here she is just glowing in the sunshine. The lights aren't even on and she's all lit up!

So, even though I make no claims at any photographic knowledge other then "point and click," we can all notice beauty along the way. Life is art after all!

Moto Morini 125 T 1946-1955

2010-12-06T07:31:00.000-08:00

The German DKW bikes were an inspiration for many motorcycles, and the Moto Morini T125 was one of them. It had a two stroke, single cylinder engine with 4.5 HP at 4500rpm, three speed gearbox and 19 inch wheels.

Posters for the Motorcycle Lover

2010-10-10T19:22:00.001-07:00

While shopping for bar end signals for my cafe racer I stumbled upon this great web site for rare parts and it just so happens they have a great sign and posters section. The prices are good too!
Get yours here:
Domiracer Web Site

Custom Inspiration

2010-09-22T10:04:00.000-07:00

Announce Your New Baby!

2010-09-01T09:38:00.000-07:00

Thruxton's Rock!

2010-08-12T15:55:00.000-07:00

But, my upper body is much too short to ride it further then around the block....! Guess I'll just have to stick to my own bikes....thanks anyway Russ!

Eurasia Bike Show in LaConner, WA

2010-07-19T23:17:00.001-07:00

Mark Your Calendars!

2010-06-10T06:40:00.001-07:00

LaConner accommodations are going fast!

Mods and Rockers Event Coming Soon

2010-06-06T08:28:00.001-07:00

Available on Amazon

2010-06-02T07:05:00.000-07:00

Verticle License Plate Bracket

2010-05-19T13:08:00.001-07:00

This particular vertical bracket has been discontinued and sadly, happen to be perfect for what I was looking for. So, why is it so hard to find this somewhere else? Anybody have any tips as to where I can purchase one of these without a tail light hole on top, I'd appreciate the tip! It's the only thing keeping me from riding my Honda!

Bad Ass

2010-05-11T17:52:00.001-07:00

There's just something about this angle that looks so damn good!

Mercury Girl's New Ride!

2010-04-21T14:06:00.001-07:00

Not quite complete but I was anxious to post some pictures.

Seat was upholstered by Rocky in Tacoma. Met him through Tacoma Triumph. Paint was done in Seattle by Ken at SIK Werks. I purchased the seat, grips and tail light from Carpy. Bar end signals from DomiRacer.

Most of all, I want to thank Bob Field of Bob's Benz & More, for his expertise and generosity! I've learned a lot and appreciate the friendship that's developed through this transformation.
(that's a picture of Bob on the Honda "before" the modifications).

Time to Ride!!

Celebrating My 50th

2010-04-18T16:04:00.001-07:00

Since it's my 50th birthday today, I decided I'd do a little bit of everything I like best. After washing the Miata and taking it for a spin with some great tunes playing, my next bit of fun was to take my hubby's Thruxton out for a ride. And what a perfect day for it!

Sunny and 68 degrees! What more could I ask for? Well, some great friends happen to drive by so we hit Prost for a bloody mary! The day just keeps getting better!

My next post will show my actual birthday present to myself. The Honda Cafe Racer is just about done. Pictures to come later this week. Just have some buffing, trim and bolting the license plate on to do. And waiting for the speedo cable to arrive.

Stay tuned!

Frozen in Time

2010-04-07T08:29:00.000-07:00

More photos like these here: Harry Cobra

Happy Easter!

2010-04-04T13:28:00.001-07:00

Better Than Saturday Morning Cartoons!

2010-03-27T08:06:00.001-07:00

Which Rider Are You Most Like?

2010-03-18T20:38:00.001-07:00

1950 Vincent Black Shadow

2010-03-17T07:03:00.000-07:00

A Truly Naked Bike

2010-03-13T18:41:00.001-08:00

A little unexpected wiring problem delays assemblage. Nothing too serious, just old wiring on the Honda.

Ann Margret

2010-03-09T18:14:00.000-08:00

I need a jacket to match my bike!

Better Than Saturday Morning Cartoons

2010-03-06T07:43:00.000-08:00

Big Time!

2010-03-05T06:59:00.001-08:00

Cruiser Calligram

2010-03-04T10:01:00.001-08:00

Here's one for all you cruiser lovers out there. Soon to be featured on my etsy store.

This particular model is inspired by the Harley Davidson Fatboy. I love the description on the Harley web site for this bike:

Dark, Fat and Strong! Makes me want to buy one.

I'm Obsessed!

2010-03-03T13:15:00.001-08:00

Another one for the Calligram Series. Just finished this today. The ink is still wet!

Next up, Cruiser Calligram!

I LOVE BIKES!

Carpy's Clamps

2010-03-03T06:52:00.000-08:00

Just when I think I've just about purchased everything I need, I find something else I want!
These too, are from Carpy's Garage.

As Carpy says; "Peace and Grease!"

One Last Look

2010-02-28T17:44:00.001-08:00

This is my 73 Honda CB350f in the state I purchased it in. It was in pretty great condition, but just not exciting enough after riding it for a year. I am saving all the stock parts in case I ever have the desire to change it back. But I don't think I will......

If any of you have been following along, you know that it's been going through a rather slow transformation since about November. This last Friday however, all the shiny parts were taken to my mechanic and friend Bob Field, to begin assemblage.

It's official, it's almost ready! The last few items on the list are new mirrors, paint the forks and purchase gators, change out the idiot lights and add them to the headlight bucket, shopping for a goldtone chain and have the seat upholstered. I guess the list is still long.....stay tuned!

Vintage Bikes in Turkey

2010-02-26T15:39:00.001-08:00

Carpy's Grips

2010-02-19T21:09:00.000-08:00

A friend of mine turned me on to these grips at Carpy's site. Period Cafe Racer grips from the 70's and only 20.00.

Carpy provides great service, and no one can deny his refined skills in building Cafe Racers.

Thanks Grumpy!

Handlebars Ordered Finally!

2010-02-18T07:42:00.001-08:00

I've been having a hard time deciding on which handlebars to purchase for the Honda Cafe Transformation. There's just too many choices and without having the bike in my own garage, most of the time I just have to visualize in my head what I'd like. I chose these Flanders Low Clubman bars from Sideroad Cycles. Next, I need to start looking at grips.

Body parts are still resting securely in the spare bedroom but as soon as I get the bars everything goes over to Bob Field for the finishing assembly. Exciting!

I highly recommend shopping with Sideroad Cycles. My handlebars came in two days and I only paid 11.00 for shipping with insurance. Nice!~

Road Trip?

2010-02-16T05:33:00.001-08:00

Check out this cool web site:
MotorcycleRoadsUS

Ton Up!

2010-02-11T14:44:00.001-08:00

The World's Sexiest Bike, Hubby, Bike, Hubby, Bike.....

2010-02-09T17:09:00.001-08:00

2005 Triumph Thruxton. Black with checkerboard stripes. D & D Black Ceramic Exhaust and a whole lot of sex appeal! We are officially done shopping....

Summer is Coming!

2010-02-08T18:46:00.001-08:00

Sneak Peek II

2010-02-02T18:49:00.000-08:00

33 you might ask?

Well, it's been my number since I was a kid, and now I finally get to use it in a big way. I battled with including it or not, then I realized that without it, it's just too plain and if you're going to spend the money on custom paint, you should definitely personalize it. So that's my advice for you if you're going to paint your bike. Don't do it with consideration for resale, do it up for YOU!

We only LIVE once!

Julius Hangs Out in Good Company

2010-01-29T06:44:00.000-08:00

Sneak Peek!

2010-01-27T13:13:00.000-08:00

And the true color looks so much better in real lighting!

Paint job done at: Sik Werks, Seattle.

Just wait until you see the rest of it!

It's much more GOLD in real life.

Replacing the Valve Cover Gasket

2010-01-27T08:34:00.001-08:00

My first thought when I went to I-90 Motorsports to purchase the gasket was, "$33.00 for a stretched out piece of rubber?" Come on!! But then again, when you have to have something, the price always goes up. Or is it, when it's a Triumph the price always goes up?

Here' s a few photos of the Bonneville, whom I now have named Julius (Orange Julius), getting his first repair in my ownership, and my first look underneath the valve cover! Cool! I wonder if I can make some interesting jewelry with some of those parts...

Hangin' Out at the Shop

2010-01-25T13:40:00.000-08:00

Here's some updates on the Honda Transformation. Paint job is just about finished but will need to sit and cure for a few weeks. I'll post photos as soon as I get it back. Next purchase is the Flanders Clubman handlebars and new mirrors. Brought the Hella replica bar end signals to the shop today, they're going to look great!

Poor Honda, still stripped and now covered in a fine dust. Soon it'll be better then ever!

Better Than Saturday Morning Cartoons!

2010-01-23T09:27:00.000-08:00

Classic Motorcycle Calligram

2010-01-12T19:30:00.001-08:00

If I'm not riding, I'm thinking about bikes! And there's so many words to describe them for sure.

Calligrams are a lost art and rarely seen in the art world anymore. I guess that's why I like them so much. Combining two of my favorite past times, I can't wait to give these out to my friends!

I'll be selling prints on my Etsy Shop if you're interested. They'll be ready tomorrow!

Bike Love!

Off to See the Wizard!

2010-01-08T09:27:00.001-08:00

The Paint Wizards at SIK Werks, that is.

I don't want to give away all the details, but the paper lay outs are just some preliminary ideas. I'm hoping the expertise at SIK will give me some constructive input. I am keeping the side covers I purchased on ebay simple. No badges, no decals. Just a gorgeous color that I won't give away just yet!

Yesterday I ordered the bar end signals from DomiRacer which I think will look great! I still have yet to purchase the flat bars and mirrors.

Stay tuned for more soon! Riding season is just around the corner, you know!

Era 59: The Real Rockers

2010-01-05T13:46:00.000-08:00

This is a photo of Father Graham Hullet. From 1962 through 1970, he was leader of the British Motorcycle Group; 59 Club. He was thought by many to have been the real "heart and soul" of the club.

Father Hullet was a biker from his very early days, even before he joined the Army. Later, he helped to form the 59 Club through the youth group at his church in London. Helping many of the young rockers with their court hearings, counseling, mechanical needs, and even performing marriages within the club, he was known as a man that was always willing to lend a hand.

Graham Hullet is still alive and well, and was recently awarded a new Royal Enfield Bullet motorcycle by 59 of his club members and friends.

A true inspiration! Now, if I could just find a youth group like that for my son!

Projects in the Garage

2010-01-04T08:12:00.001-08:00

Seems like every time we're ready to venture out, one of our bikes won't start. I guess that's what happens when you have 4 and two are vintage.

Seen here is hubbies 73 T140. Back tire was finally put back on only to discover the brake bar now needs to be replaced. It's always something and that's why I've named this Triumph, "Old Man." Nothing negative intended. I like old men!

The Honda Shadow is now having electrical problems beyond our knowledge and skill. Good thing we recently bought a used Kendon dual motorcycle trailer. It sure beats asking someone else to do the towing.

We're looking forward to Backfire Motorcycle Night, and currently with only 1 bike up and running we may have to flip a coin for who's gonna ride bitch!

Last Ride of '09

2009-12-31T17:25:00.000-08:00

One last ride in '09 was a quick trip to this viewpoint today, reminding me of what I have to look forward to in the coming year. With a misty Seattle skyline in the background, I stopped for a quick photo (taken by my hubby, Russ) not more then a mile from our house.

Just seconds after snapping the camera, the rain began to pound the pavement. We quickly tucked the bikes back into the garage hoping for a longer ride later this holiday weekend. Yes, I'm a fair weather rider if I can help it! But, being a Seattle native, I know better then to think I won't get caught in a down pour once in a while!

Happy New Year everyone! Many happy & safe rides to all in 2010!

Joni Jett

New Love

2009-12-30T11:17:00.000-08:00

What is it about getting a new bike that makes me want to sleep in the garage?

I just had to take this time to post a collaged portrait of my new love.

That shiny chrome and throaty voice!

Calling me from the garage!

Okay, enough of this blog.....I must go RIDE!

But I'll Settle for this One!

2009-12-28T21:25:00.000-08:00

I found this beauty on craig's list today. A 2006 Triumph Bonneville T100 in creamy white and tangerine orange. We rode the ferry to Bainbridge Island this afternoon and brought her home for only 5,300.00!

One nice little bonus was buying it from another woman. It just makes the sale feel "so right."

The bike has only 14,000 miles on it. Just barely broke in, and hardly a scratch on her. Unlike the photo here, it now has bar end mirrors, windscreen, after market exhaust, rejetted carbs and a new airbox, increasing it's hp's from 61 to 69. Can't wait for the weather to warm up a bit more, but I think I can make a few small sacrifices by putting on my neon green long underwear! Now, I just wish they were orange. ;-D

While I Wait on the Honda........

2009-12-13T16:06:00.000-08:00

Don't get me wrong, I still love my little Honda CB350f, but since I'm without two wheels at the moment, can I help but lust after another?

This is on my "to die for" list.....and some day it will be mine!

The Bonneville T100 Forest Green/White.

How sweet it is!

Beast Before Beauty!

2009-11-09T16:21:00.000-08:00

Here's the CB350f as a work in progress. He looks a little sad. But not for long!

As you can see, the seat in this photo is not yet attached. Bob Fields is using the hinge hardware from the stock seat on this seat so that the battery can be serviced easier. New side covers were purchased through ebay. I didn't need the badges for the new side covers and I was lucky enough to find them with the bodywork already complete! Next part of the project will be the body work on the tank, new paint and striping, flat handle bars and switching out all the indicator lights and reflectors. Can't wait to see it myself!

Seat and tail light purchased from:
Carpy aka Steven Carpenter
If you've never seen his web site, you should check it out!

CB 350 to Hot Little Cafe Racer!

2009-10-24T14:01:00.000-07:00

This little 73 Honda CB 350f is about to undergo a big transformation. His profile will soon take shape into something a little more racy!

My mechanic, Bob Field, is a British cafe racer and builder from "back in the day." I'm honored and privileged to have Bob making the transformation happen.

Stay tuned for more!

Trip to Winthrop via Hwy 20

2009-06-29T20:42:00.000-07:00

If you've never taken a road trip on two wheels, I highly recommend it!

I'll admit, most of the mileage I put on my scooter or motorcycle is done within Seattle city limits, so it's a real treat to get beyond all those traffic lights, congestion and exhaust fumes.

Read on! And hopefully get inspired!

Lunch in Darrington

2009-06-29T20:40:00.000-07:00

This is the Hometown Bakery in Darrington. Darrington is located along Hwy 530 just about 20 miles before hitting Hwy 20. Whenever I see a sign that includes the word, "bakery," my mouth always starts watering. Russ knew that the plan was to stop in Darrington for lunch, but he was a little surprised when I turned my scooter off the main road and headed down the side street where this cafe was located.

The owner, Cathran Lyons, bought this place about three years ago. She makes yummy soups, sandwiches and other baked goods. She also works for the local Food Bank and donates her left-overs from the Bakery along with preparing care packages & calendars for local service men and women overseas! We talked a while about the economy. Seems Darrington has been hit pretty hard. A friend of hers that works for the Court System said she delivers 6-10 foreclosure notices per week to Darrington alone due to loss of jobs in the area. Poplulation has stayed at about 1,200 people for nearly 50 years!

We stopped again for lunch on our way back home. Great comfort food & healthy too! I sure hope she's there when we go back again.

Diablo Lake

2009-06-29T19:51:00.000-07:00

Just before reaching the pass on the North Cascade Hwy, our first stop was Diablo Lake. Beautiful!

Some of our state's best views, as seen here in the Skagit River Gorge area, can be found all along Hwy 20. Diablo Lake recreation also offers a dinner cruise for those that want to stick around the area a little longer. For us though, we stayed just long enough to take a few photos and then it was time to hit the road again!

BV Conquers the Summit!

2009-06-29T19:50:00.001-07:00

Well, whoever said a scooter wouldn't make it over the North Cascades Hwy never met a Piaggio 250! It's true, I was a little apprehensive of her performance at first, but I was quickly assured of her ability shortly after we left Lake Diablo. I was able to keep her speed up, even on the steep inclines over Washington Pass, to at least 60-65 mph!

We left Seattle on Friday, June 26th around 11:00am and arrived in Winthrop, our destination, at about 4:00pm. We made one stop for lunch in Darrington at the Hometown Bakery. Delicious soups and sandwiches!

We totalled up our gas expenses for the trip to be about $50.00 for both the scooter and my husband Russ's motorcycle. This includes extra miles enjoying the local scenery in the Methow Valley. Total distance came to just over 540 miles.

Our Cabin in Winthrop

2009-06-29T19:40:00.000-07:00

Our sweet little cabin nestled in the Methow Valley was perfect and came with a few wildlife visitors as well! The Chewuch Inn Bed and Breakfast was exactly what we'd hoped it would be. Just a half mile from downtown Winthrop, it was quiet, provided us with a gourmet breakfast each morning and even had a hottub!

Spending the Day in Nature

2009-06-29T19:38:00.000-07:00

Since I hadn't been over the North Cascade Hwy for nearly 10 years, and never really spent much time out of a car while there, I was pleasantly surprised at all the amazing sites in nature to enjoy! This waterfall, just a few miles from downtown Winthrop, was only a few feet from the road so it was quite easy to visit.

Trees and Trails

2009-06-29T19:35:00.000-07:00

There's no denying, Nature makes us feel so small!