Parked the Vespa outside Ken Hull’s moto hangout in Boalsburg, Pennsylvania last week for the second installment of Piston and Pints — an eclectic gathering of riders from the area. I was the first one there and was delighted after a ride from work with the road level temperature pushing triple digits to sit on a couch and sip an ice cold lemonade.
My friend Paul Ruby arrived and made himself at home on an 80cc (?) Yamaha dirt bike. Ken’s garage is kind of cozy and reminds me again I need to clean mine up. Maybe someday I’ll entertain some sort of festive occasion myself.
Dave Dix and Ken Hull took advantage of the shelter from the sun, at least until it lowered in the sky and the temperature moderated a bit. Last time Dave showed up in a Honda C-RV. This time he arrived on a 150cc Honda scooter. He grudgingly admitted he liked the think but was also troubled that he liked it. I’m sure the next time he’ll show up with his BMW motorcycle.
There was a completely different collection of motorcycles present on this evening including this tall, big, goliath of a motorcycle — the Yamaha Super Tenere (sorry Yamaha but I can’t figure out how to put accents on the ‘e’s). Billed as a motorcycle for intercontinental adventure I could see how one would feel the road has no limits. At least until you find yourself on a little hiking trail.
The owner was a pleasant fellow though I didn’t get to talk to him much. He was the only one there who confessed to riding in the winter though his lower temperature limit was 35F.
I like the looks of the bike.
Ken like the looks of Paul’s Ducati 1198 which always looks dazzling due to Paul’s expertise with a soft cotton diaper. There was a lengthy discussion of cleaning chains and the best method to keeping them looking all clean and shiny. I seem to remember my eyes rolling back into my head about this point of the evening and wondering if I should clean the toilet when I get home or watch Rebus on Netflix.
While this was happening Ken was dropping subtle hints about how cool it would be to take the Ducati for a spin. The conversation moved into the inevitable lies and prevarications about speeding down the highway on a motorcycle — like fish stories — except these were measured in miles per hour rather than pounds and inches.
I think 142 mph was the biggest number I heard. For awhile I thought I might be able to pipe in that I once had the speedometer on the Vespa hitting 80. I had to fold quickly though.
Ask anyone — I don’t do crowds. Or events or group rides. Something in my DNA makes me nervous when there are more than a handful of people around. At least in social situations. Work is a different story — bring on the crowds. Piston and Pints has been a pleasant surprise and I feel at home (even though I’ the sole scooterist so far) among the motorcycle riders. As a sign of respect and concern I warn the collective community to hold their ears before I ignite the engine on the Vespa.
Seriously though, it’s kind of cool to listen to people who are extremely knowledgeable about their machines and have incredible recall of details about every part, process and procedure related to the mechanical and electrical workings of a motorcycle. I’m hoping a comparable scooter type appears some evening in case I have some questions.
After two Piston and Pints events I have to judge Ken’s riding event a qualified success. If you live within easy riding distance of Boalsburg you should plan to stop by and say hello, tell some stories, make some friends.
Make a note: Every 1st and 3rd Tuesday from 5pm to 8pm Ken will have the door open — motorcycles, scooters, talk, refreshments. A pleasant way to spend an evening.
Ken says
Steve my friend, I really enjoy having you at Pistons & Pints Moto Hang! If on an occasion, you don’t make it, I admit I’ll be sad. And your photos and comments? Wow, couldn’t ask for better – thank you!
P&P Moto Hang is proving that motorcycling is more than owning a bike and riding it. It’s about that of course, but it’s also the camaraderie, community, connection, enlightenment, and just plain fun (as well as healthy envy to inspire adding a new bike to the shack – oh how I want that 1198!)!
Scooter in the Sticks readers, PLEASE come by for a hang! The next one is August 7th. Hope you can make it too Steve!
Conchscooter says
How about showing Ken Stott at the event? Rebus breaking the heads of the powerful is quite entertaining.
Steve Williams says
Ken: My pleasure. I’ve enjoyed the get togethers and look forward to the next.
Steve Williams says
Conchscooter: Ken Stott would fit right in though the beer and ale might run out before he’s satisfied. I assume he would arrive on a Triumph?
Paul says
Hi Steve. I know I’m weird but I like cleaning the chain until it looks new or better. I really like the atmosphere at Ken’s gatherings. Very friendly. Some of those guys are really serious bikers. Did you know Ken has done mountain climbing on his motorcycle? Paul
Paul says
Hi Steve. I know I’m weird but I like cleaning the chain until it looks new or better. I really like the atmosphere at Ken’s gatherings. Very friendly. Some of those guys are really serious bikers. Did you know Ken has done mountain climbing on his motorcycle? Paul
~Poppawheelie~ says
Another great write-up… with pitchers!
See you there again.
Steve Williams says
Paul: I see a lot of filthy chains so it’s nice to view one in pristine condition.
Ken’s hospitality is relaxed and engaging. Looking forward to the next event.
I knew Ken did some trial riding but not much detail. Stories for the next get together!
Steve Williams says
Poppawheelie: Thanks! Since we talked I’ve seen three Suzuki’s similar to yours. They have me thinking…