Newbie 916 owner I have previously owned a number of Jap 4’s and my last bike was a TRX850 which pushed all the right buttons and sold me up the river twin. I have always admired, and to some degree wanted a 916 since the Strada landed in 94. Last year I went touring in Spain with a great lad off this sight (CRM250) and we did a bike swap for an hour, (Original 916 Strada). Decision made, with my demob from the Army imminent, I was going to treat myself. Last November I found a mint 916BP – If the truth known I could probably have scraped the funds for a new 999, however, the later just doesn’t meet the wet dream criteria the 916 has over me. A little over priced, but with the looks of a just out of the crate 1997 bike, and with 3500 on the clock. Everything original and the 916 decals that mattered. Rule 1 – Beware the 916 that has been stood in a heated shed for 5 years. 500 miles into my ownership the output shaft bearing made like a grenade. To cut a long story short, a rebuild with all new bearings, belts, bits, bobs, and cogs I’ve manage a further 500 miles with no surprises. (Many thanks to Steve and the guys at MotoRapido). So I’ve been a 916 owner for 10 months and I have only just learned to love it. It’s the only/best looking tractor I have owned. So it’s staying, and to that end this is why I am here. So, a big hello to one and all. The imaginary money is behind the imaginary bar. Regards Nige |