BCM Community

Last summer, just outside the Grand Canyon, at a campground replete with swimming pool and swing sets I came across a non-bus person.  I was cleaning the windshield of my coach and this guy walks up, number three washtub cup of coffee in hand, and states matter of factually, "Old Trailways huh?" and I reply, "No sir.  This not an old Trailways."  


He then says, "Well sonny, you are wrong and I will tell you why."  I think to myself I can never line up three numbers on the lottery, but I am lucky enough to run into guys like this?  So I once again reply, "Sure, why don't you amuse me a little this morning."

He then points at the Gold Eagle on the front of the coach and says, "It's a Trailways, all them Trailways had an Eagle on the front of 'em."  So as politely as I could, knowing full well, that good public relations in the bus community is one of our primary goals.  Slowly and methodically, taking my time, I explained to this brown loafer with black socks tourist the entire history of my coach.  Which of course, did not amount to a hill of beans, because "it has an Eagle on the front of it."

Patiently I tried to explain to him how it was manufactured in 1983, in Brownsville, Texas and I found myself speaking "slower and slower" so he would be able to take it in.  But it was to no avail, this guy, the kind of guy who never had his science project in school turned in on time, was not buying into any of it.  

"Nah, you got it wrong," you see, "it has an Eagle on the front of it, all them there Trailways, had an Eagle on 'em."  I tried to tell him it came out of California, that at one time it lived in Arizona and I bought it off a guy outside of Orlando, Florida.  But it simply did not soak in.  I am thinking to myself ... "If you had bought an old Buffalo this conversation would NOT be happening."


After what I consider a reasonable amount of logical and concise explanation, not to mention time, I just hung it up.  Looking him straight in the eye, I said, "Excuse me partner, I have to finish what I started here." and went back to cleaning my windshields.  Which in all honesty is about the only thing I had planned for that morning anyway.  


It would be nice to have a warning from time to time when non-bus people are in the area.  At the turn of the century, miner's in the coal mines of Appalachia, Virginia-West Virginia, Ohio and Kentucky, would carry into the mine a canary in a cage.  The purpose or reason for this was the canary was their "air quality" control for the miners.  If the air were to suddenly turn bad, the canary would die, and the miners were made aware of the danger.  Today of course, electronic metering devices (air sniffers) have replaced the canary.


Being new to this lifestyle and a novice, I just blindly followed along, picking up a nugget of truth here and there, and more or less, weeding my way thru the bus community.  A true beginner.  My first precursor to something being amiss was when someone on a bus site (to be un-named at this time), inquired as to what the history of my bus might be?  I of course, did not know, so it was suggested that I provide a serial number and the data would be provided to me.

Grabbing a flashlight I went out into the shop, located the serial number, noted the information and then posted it on the net.  This serial number or VIN, isn't as easily found as suggested by the bus nut who needed it, but after a short period of time, I found it.  Hastily welded to the frame in the engine compartment, really unprofessional looking, and somewhat tacky.  There in all its splendid glory was the Vin Number of my coach, splotched welds and all.  Hastily welded to my frame by some hung-over I will do it on Monday type in Brownsville, Texas many years ago.

Somewhat smug and feeling circumspect for even locating the plate, I headed into the house to post it.  Not long after that, I got a reply from the bus nut historian, the "entire history" of my bus, where it was born, where it worked, where it served the public, when it left service, the entire nine yards.  I found out that my particular people carrier ran up and down the San Joaquin Valley out of Sacramento, California.  The majority of its working life was in The Golden State.  It ran for an outfit named the Amador Coach Lines, from the valley to San Francisco-Oakland Bay Area, with an occasional side trip over Donner Pass to Reno, Nevada, with a load of fun seekers I suppose.  


So I said, "No, it is an 8V92T Detroit."  Again, "No you are wrong, the serial number indicates .... blah, blah, yadda-yadda."  Suddenly I find myself, sitting alone in my spacious media room, in my comfortable Easy Boy recliner, sipping on a bottle of Snapple and wondering "if this guy, this internet bus historian, is he wearing brown loafers and black socks?" Reading on, I note there is even more.  It seems that in the bus community, "there is always more" no shortage of that.  

At this juncture in time, on my bus related journey of awareness, I was clued in again.  I was at that time, even given specific instructions on how to look at an exhaust manifold, and ascertain the number of cylinders on my engine (you need to count the exhaust ports on the headers).  


It never occurred to this person that bus engines, transmissions, and other bus nomenclature are routinely removed and swapped out in this day and age all over America?  A request is made for me to photo document and authenticate the number of cylinders on my Detroit prime mover.  This somewhat unorthodox request was promptly filed in the circular retainer next to my chair for further use (trashed).  By the way ... just for the record ... It is a 8V92T.  I have the shop receipts and canceled checks to prove it.  If need be, I can also provide the telephone number of "the old two-stroke dude" in Joplin, Missouri that removed the previous engine and installed the new rebuilt one.  

Bus clubs and the internet are supposed to be a variable storehouse of information.  But sadly, it is often not true.  It has also been suggested to me by someone who hangs in the bus community (who I understand doesn't even own a bus) that I do not know the difference between a hub cap and a wheel.  Which is ridiculous, a hubcap is lighter than a wheel, we all know that.  And a wheel, as I understand it, is much, much bigger.  

Our second encounter comes in the form of bus club membership.  We are told of this wonderful bunch of people, who share a common interest (Eagle Buses) and that we should join up.  This is usually in the form of an invite or as a used car salesman would put it ... The Come On.  

Usually it is something much like:  "First things first, you now need to join our group at: (location of group here) and hopefully consider joining the chapter.  There is a ton of Eagle specific information on the site and some pretty knowledgeable folks that have a lot of expertise and experience that are always willing to help.  Next, would you mind telling us who you bought the bus from?   Also, if we know the bus, we might be able to help you with background information.  BTW, for the rest of you that own SOBs, you are welcome to drop into the goings on over there" and then goes on to invite and greet.  

At this point, I had to email someone and get a definition of SOB, turns out it meant Some Other Brand ... Who would've ever thunk thet?  

Not much on social networking and knowing full well from past experiences that these things never seem to pan out, we joined.  At this point, I note that our canary is no longer singing, and it is not as active in the cage as before.  


Soon I discover, that opinionated people are not always welcomed with open arms in the bus community, it is best to keep your mouth shut.  We attend our very first bus rally, which in itself is a real eye opener.  20 plus coaches of different make and color adorn the shores of a small lake in Kansas.

There I discover that I have the wrong transmission, and of course, "it is NOT the transmission that I say it is."  We also discover much to our disappointment we are running the wrong kind of oil and that our motive power, our fuel gulping two-lane pusher, the 8V92T, is surely without a doubt, the worst oil leaking, underpowered engine on the American market today.  It is also reputed to smoke worse than the Marlboro cowboy and is currently illegal in the entire State of "Kalifornia and three counties outside of Ypsilanti, Michigan."  

Our marker lights are installed backwards, our caps are wrong and tires clearly not of the prescribed norm for highway travel in this land stretching from sea to shining sea.  I am thankful for my prescription of Halcyon and the understanding of my bride, who often see's me through trying times in life.  

Against my better judgment I buy two commemorative two T-shirts knowing full well that I will most likely never will wear them in public.  A medium size for the little lady, and an XLFB (Extra Large with a Full Belly) for me.


Firing up the old hoopie, she smokes a little and I wait on the air buzzer to quit.  Time to head south, another bus rally is on our horizon, and of course, we are going to try to find a little clean air.  The canary coughs a couple of coughs, then heads over on the perch to lean up against the bars of the cage.

See you in the fast lane ... Watch those right-handers.*

BCO

* 3 more Van and I get a balloon!

I own a 1974 P8M4905A ex Gray Lines from Las Vegas,NV.
Every non bus person who see's the old Buffalo states nice old Greyhound bus you have.
I explain it was never a Greyhound and their reply normally is sure looks like a old Greyhound to me.
Also some folk's say nice Eagle you have then I have to explain it's a GMC not a Eagle.
When I tell a non bus person that I own a real bus most say why do you want to own a school bus?
So yes non bus people are sort of a pain.
jlv

.

Quote from: roadrunnertex on April 15, 2011, 06:25:46 AM

When I tell a non bus person that I own a real bus most say why do you want to own a school bus?

  Some people are just born idiots, and thats a fact.

Total understanding here.  The ones that think all buses are expensive  -or school buses---or greyhound--use gasoline--or weigh more than semi trucks---or have seats for 40-- only can have one drive train configuration-- cannot have slides--etc  I'm like you are not bus nuts. Not the Rebels of society thinking outside the box.  WE ARE THE LUCKY ONES ! just how dull can life be?    Bob

I would have probably gotten mad and siad something sarcastic at some point so you showed great restraint. Alot of people assume because I like buses that I know all the routes and schedules and "must" be a transit anti car nut. I tell them that I generally only pay attention to the fleet of the operators and the builders. Then there are those that assume that I like trains since they seem to think that somehow trains and buses are the same thing. Nothing against trains but I'm not a rail nut either.
I have been a scanner nut for over 30 years and often take it with me when I take walks when the weather is nice. People have asked me if I'ma cop or do I work for the parks dept. SHEESH.
I guess you can't explain HD TV to people who are just discovering that TV now broadcasts in color.

Our favorite is when we pull up to a small town stop light and someone runs over and knocks on the door of the bus and says "does this thing run?"   

  Wow. This is probably one thread ill just forget to share with the wife. I dont mind people coming up and asking questions, but scores of dolts isnt much tolook forwrd to.

Quote from: bubbaqgal on April 15, 2011, 09:52:26 AM
Our favorite is when we pull up to a small town stop light and someone runs over and knocks on the door of the bus and says "does this thing run?"   

Quote from: artvonne on April 15, 2011, 07:49:29 AM

Quote from: roadrunnertex on April 15, 2011, 06:25:46 AM

When I tell a non bus person that I own a real bus most say why do you want to own a school bus?

  Some people are just born idiots, and thats a fact.

And of course, dont forget the people who try to board when you go to the filling station or grocery store lol

 :D :D :D

Most times I just read the posts from the sidelines, but every now and then something strikes my funny bone (this thread) and I log in. Thanks for the stories, I love them (probably cause I can relate LOL) Will ;D

The best humor always contains a certain element of truth.

Very very funny.

If we ever meet I will be very cautious on toppics and choosing my words wisely.

Dan -

Amador Stage Lines, eh?

Good carrier, one of the better ones in CA.

Been around a long time, has a good PM program, only a couple of headline-grabbing boo-boos due to driver error in the 30+ years I've been familiar with them.

Sister company to Royal Coach Lines out of San Jose, CA, another top-notch carrier.  (Not business-wise, but family-wise.)

If in the market, wouldn't hesitate to purchase a used coach from either company, but alas, at a premium price due to condition.

FWIW & HTH. . .

;)


PS:  I probably would have said to black socks: 

"Since you seem to be pretty well-informed, I'm going to ask you a dumb question, see if you can give me an intelligent answer.  Ready?  Listen carefully: Is it possible (pregnant pause), that the manufacturer of this bus just might have sold new vehicles to other bus companies besides Trailways?" 

Then enjoy watching his facial expressions as he tries to answer intelligently. . .   ;D

Quote from: roadrunnertex on April 15, 2011, 06:25:46 AM

When I tell a non bus person that I own a real bus most say why do you want to own a school bus?

Things were going well and good until this was mentioned.  ;)

TV broadcasts are now in color???? Wow!! what will they think of next?  ;D

What was the difference in a 10s and the 10sc ? any of you guys have a 10SC seems like only 20 were built  


good luck

Quote from: Ed Hackenbruch on April 15, 2011, 01:52:23 PM
TV broadcasts are now in color???? Wow!! what will they think of next?  ;D

  Radar ovens. You just wait and see.

Mr. Boxcar Okie:

Awesome post! Congrats!

When I told a friend I was in the process (good Lord willing, and the creek don't rise!)getting me a bus, he said, "I thought Volkswagen stopped making them!"

Radar ovens? man i need to get out more!!  Next thing you know they will have some sort of cordless phone for use in your house. How cool would that be!  ;D

Great story I can only understand the newbe part. I thought an ebay number was a vin
to a bus. I wish that dam bird would stop singing so loud.
  Kevin

Quote from: roadrunnertex on April 15, 2011, 06:25:46 AM
I own a 1974 P8M4905A ex Gray Lines from Las Vegas,NV.
Every non bus person who see's the old Buffalo states nice old Greyhound bus you have.
I explain it was never a Greyhound and their reply normally is sure looks like a old Greyhound to me.
Also some folk's say nice Eagle you have then I have to explain it's a GMC not a Eagle.
When I tell a non bus person that I own a real bus most say why do you want to own a school bus?
So yes non bus people are sort of a pain.
jlv

As in all things, there are those who are sincere and polite, and then there are the one's who are not.  You can lead a horse to water, but you cannot make them drink.  They will think what they want to think, they are after all, people.

Thanks for your reply,

BCO

Quote from: Len Silva on April 15, 2011, 06:33:52 AM
.

"It's a Bus Thang" I like that, our current sticker is "Mean People Suck."

I would love to have this one for a bumper sticker.  Down in Texas they have one that is similar it says ... "Texas ... It's An Attitude Thang Y'all."

BCO

Quote from: artvonne on April 15, 2011, 07:49:29 AM

Quote from: roadrunnertex on April 15, 2011, 06:25:46 AM

When I tell a non bus person that I own a real bus most say why do you want to own a school bus?

  Some people are just born idiots, and thats a fact.

I know, my wife tells me she is married to one, all of the time.

BCO

Quote from: robertglines1 on April 15, 2011, 08:01:00 AM
Total understanding here.  The ones that think all buses are expensive  -or school buses---or greyhound--use gasoline--or weigh more than semi trucks---or have seats for 40-- only can have one drive train configuration-- cannot have slides--etc  I'm like you are not bus nuts. Not the Rebels of society thinking outside the box.  WE ARE THE LUCKY ONES ! just how dull can life be?    Bob

We all are not cut from the same cloth, we are different, being a bus owner, makes us stand out and apart from the crowd, wouldn't you agree?  This makes us more susceptible to criticism and as fuel continues to climb, our apparent form of transportation is going to seem even more ridiculous to those who can least afford it, yet alone understand it.

Thanks for your reply,

BCO

Quote from: CrabbyMilton on April 15, 2011, 09:14:13 AM
I would have probably gotten mad and siad something sarcastic at some point so you showed great restraint. Alot of people assume because I like buses that I know all the routes and schedules and "must" be a transit anti car nut. I tell them that I generally only pay attention to the fleet of the operators and the builders. Then there are those that assume that I like trains since they seem to think that somehow trains and buses are the same thing. Nothing against trains but I'm not a rail nut either.
I have been a scanner nut for over 30 years and often take it with me when I take walks when the weather is nice. People have asked me if I'ma cop or do I work for the parks dept. SHEESH.
I guess you can't explain HD TV to people who are just discovering that TV now broadcasts in color.

One thing aging (and my grandchildren) has taught me and that is to be more tolerant of other people.  I didn't say I understood them, I just said I was tolerant of them.  It often works, sometimes it does not, but most of the time, it is the best tact to take.

Thanks for chiming in ....

BCO

Quote from: bubbaqgal on April 15, 2011, 09:52:26 AM
Our favorite is when we pull up to a small town stop light and someone runs over and knocks on the door of the bus and says "does this thing run?"   

Now that is interesting.  We have had "orbiters" (people who make circles around it checking it out) while parked at WallyWorld.  But the most common question is ... "What did it cost?"

Thanks

BCO

Quote from: artvonne on April 15, 2011, 10:00:29 AM
  Wow. This is probably one thread ill just forget to share with the wife. I dont mind people coming up and asking questions, but scores of dolts isnt much tolook forwrd to.

Aw C'mon now, share it with her.  You have visible evidence right here to support your affliction (bus ownership) and it could be an invaluable tool for you to put into your "honey this is why I did that arsenal."  You remember back in the seventies .... "The Devil Made Me Do It." 

That kind of thing.

BCO

Quote from: happycamperbrat on April 15, 2011, 10:29:44 AM

Quote from: bubbaqgal on April 15, 2011, 09:52:26 AM
Our favorite is when we pull up to a small town stop light and someone runs over and knocks on the door of the bus and says "does this thing run?"   

Quote from: artvonne on April 15, 2011, 07:49:29 AM

Quote from: roadrunnertex on April 15, 2011, 06:25:46 AM

When I tell a non bus person that I own a real bus most say why do you want to own a school bus?

  Some people are just born idiots, and thats a fact.

And of course, dont forget the people who try to board when you go to the filling station or grocery store lol

Never had that particular problem, lot of what we call "Lookie Loo's" but no boarders.  I had a guy ask me one time if I was "that Oatmeal Guy?" (Wilford Brimley) but since then I have shaved and lost a lot of weight, and it isn't happening anymore.

Thank you for your reply,

BCO

Quote from: PP on April 15, 2011, 11:02:03 AM
Most times I just read the posts from the sidelines, but every now and then something strikes my funny bone (this thread) and I log in. Thanks for the stories, I love them (probably cause I can relate LOL) Will ;D

You are very welcome, sending our very best is the least we can do, and we are glad that you liked it.  It had over 500 hits in one day and that means it struck a chord with a lot of folks and that is always nice.  Make a comment or two, that is where it is at.  The comments are what really makes it interesting.

Thanks again,

BCO

Quote from: Joe Camper on April 15, 2011, 11:22:00 AM
The best humor always contains a certain element of truth.

Very very funny.

If we ever meet I will be very cautious on toppics and choosing my words wisely.

I am going to meet a guy off of this board later on this year as a matter of fact by swinging his way on our return from Seattle, Washington this summer (the winners name to be released soon, check your ticket stubs!).  We are doing one small bus meet this year and that is it.  I am sure or it is quite possible that we will meet at some event, and the pleasure will be all mine.

We put a lot of stock in our coaches, and the work we have done and all that.  But in the end, it is the people that count the most, the fellowship and the encounters.  It is pretty hard to get all wrapped up in a bus, and if you are, well, that makes a pretty small package in the end.  

I sincerely hope we do meet someday, that would be great.

BCO

Quote from: RJ on April 15, 2011, 11:52:07 AM
Dan -

Amador Stage Lines, eh?

Good carrier, one of the better ones in CA.

Been around a long time, has a good PM program, only a couple of headline-grabbing boo-boos due to driver error in the 30+ years I've been familiar with them.

Sister company to Royal Coach Lines out of San Jose, CA, another top-notch carrier.  (Not business-wise, but family-wise.)

If in the market, wouldn't hesitate to purchase a used coach from either company, but alas, at a premium price due to condition.

FWIW & HTH. . .

;)


PS:  I probably would have said to black socks: 

"Since you seem to be pretty well-informed, I'm going to ask you a dumb question, see if you can give me an intelligent answer.  Ready?  Listen carefully: Is it possible (pregnant pause), that the manufacturer of this bus just might have sold new vehicles to other bus companies besides Trailways?" 

Then enjoy watching his facial expressions as he tries to answer intelligently. . .   ;D

Yeppers, right out of Sacramento.  I used to live in Hayward by the way.  I wrote them an email about it, and they did not respond.  I liked your pregnant pause response, I will remember it.

BCO

Quote from: opus on April 15, 2011, 12:04:12 PM

Quote from: roadrunnertex on April 15, 2011, 06:25:46 AM

When I tell a non bus person that I own a real bus most say why do you want to own a school bus?

Things were going well and good until this was mentioned.  ;)

Our first bus, was a schoolie, so I know of what you speak.  We used to call it the "Okie Winneabago."  Wonder what ever happened to it?

Thanks for your comment,

BCO

Quote from: Ed Hackenbruch on April 15, 2011, 01:52:23 PM
TV broadcasts are now in color???? Wow!! what will they think of next?  ;D

And three-D.

BCO

Quote from: luvrbus on April 15, 2011, 02:06:29 PM
What was the difference in a 10s and the 10sc ? any of you guys have a 10SC seems like only 20 were built  


good luck

Oh my Gawd ..... My string is NOT going in the direction that I wanted it to ... What will I do?  What will I do?

Okay, now you are on the hook Clifford, "You are obligated to tell us the difference."

BCO

Quote from: Mex-Busnut on April 15, 2011, 04:33:05 PM
Mr. Boxcar Okie:

Awesome post! Congrats!

When I told a friend I was in the process (good Lord willing, and the creek don't rise!)getting me a bus, he said, "I thought Volkswagen stopped making them!"

Now that is rich.  I like that.  Do you know how Volkswagon people tie their tennis shoes?

With little Knotsies.

(Don't go reporting me to any moderators now)

Glad you liked the post.

BCO

Quote from: Kevinmc5 on April 15, 2011, 08:57:32 PM
Great story I can only understand the newbe part. I thought an ebay number was a vin
to a bus. I wish that dam bird would stop singing so loud.
 Kevin

Look at it from this perspective Kevin ... We are ALL newbies at one time or another, no shame in that.  I find Newbies refreshing, their enthusiasm cannot be matched, they are primed and ready to go, they can and often do move a mountain accomplishing their respective tasks or chores.

It is the posers, the fakes, the so-called experts that tend to sink my boat.  I can do without them.  I remember the day I picked up my first diesel, which I have to admit, overwhelmed me to no end.  The previous owner smiled, and he said to me, "Day #1 Don, everything from here on out, is on the learning curve, be ready."

He sure didn't sugar coat that one and he was right.

Thanks for checking in,

BCO

Post Note:  After looking at this, it is apparent it would have read better if it were all condensed into one comment/answer thing (Okie Technical term) and next time, I will do that.  Hey Van?  I am ready for my ballon!

BCO

BUS ;D

This winter at a gas station somewhere in Texas I was approached by a couple red necks who came right out with it; "can we look inside?".  I said sure, stand on your tip toes and look in the windshield.

Thanks BCO.  I always look forward to your posts and often read excerpts to my wife.  Our old coach also attracts the inflexible coffee cup guy but sometimes it's a retired driver who has fond memories of driving the old girls.  We've met some interesting people who just can't help it... they have to ask about the bus.  

My folks, now long gone, used to drive their old camper van all over the USA.  They would stop at a bar in some "back woods" town and put a package of Canadian cigarettes and a $2 bill on the table.  Eventually it would lure someone over to ask and next thing you know they were having a great time swapping stories with the locals.  They slept in many pub parking lots in that old camper.  We don't have $2 bills anymore but our bus often starts some interesting conversations with friendly strangers.

We like the bus club rallies and have actually run into people who know our coach and have helped with advice or comments.  There is always someone quick to criticize or offer cutting comments especially about the older coaches but overall I think the rallies are worth attending too.  I've just learned how to cut the conversation short when I need to.

Bryan

BOOMER:  This winter at a gas station somewhere in Texas I was approached by a couple red necks who came right out with it; "can we look inside?".  I said sure, stand on your tip toes and look in the windshield.

Man, that is cold dude, really cold.  I am too short to pull that off, and I hear in jail, they really like us little white pasty faced boys, I am just going to say, "Uh the wife is asleep or something like that."  Last time I filled up, I was standing on the opposite side, and this guy says to me, "What are you doing?" and I said, "Buying fuel."  So he says, "Where?" ... I say, "Other side."  Then he says "Why aren't you over there?" and I said, "Who wants to look at that ______ !" 

$399 and some change, and we had fuel when we pulled in ... Please insert LOL or smiley face here.

BCO

QAYQAYT:  Thanks BCO.  I always look forward to your posts and often read excerpts to my wife.  Our old coach also attracts the inflexible coffee cup guy but sometimes it's a retired driver who has fond memories of driving the old girls.  We've met some interesting people who just can't help it... they have to ask about the bus.  

My folks, now long gone, used to drive their old camper van all over the USA.  They would stop at a bar in some "back woods" town and put a package of Canadian cigarettes and a $2 bill on the table.  Eventually it would lure someone over to ask and next thing you know they were having a great time swapping stories with the locals.  They slept in many pub parking lots in that old camper.  We don't have $2 bills anymore but our bus often starts some interesting conversations with friendly strangers.

We like the bus club rallies and have actually run into people who know our coach and have helped with advice or comments.  There is always someone quick to criticize or offer cutting comments especially about the older coaches but overall I think the rallies are worth attending too.  I've just learned how to cut the conversation short when I need to.

Bryan

Hey Byran, thanks for the comments, I don't usually read my bride anything I see on the net, but then again, "I like her happy, if she is happy, then I am happy."  I desire to be nothing more than a happy, happy man before I depart this life. 

Bus rallies are good and bad, I will give you that.  And you are correct, "you do meet a lot of good folks at these gatherings, no doubt about it."  It is like that old axiom, "you sometimes have to kiss a lot of frogs, before you find your prince." 

I wish I could curtail the useless banter and learn how to exercise self restraint on some of my comments.  Like most American's I have the right to remain silent ... but seldom afford myself of the opportunity.  I will attend one or possibly two rallies this year, and hopefully will discover the joy of comradeship with other members of the tribe.   

Glad you liked the post.

See you in the fast lane

BCO

After spending many years riding my bike all over I found that stopping for fuel was one of the best parts of my trips. Generally it was time to stretch the legs and being a bad a$$ biker on occasion I may even light up a cigarette!! ;D But talking to the locals as they came and went while you were plopped on the sidewalk taking a rest really gave you some good clues as to the type of individuals that called that area home. But the most popular question I get at the majority of all my stops is "Are you headed to Sturgis?". I might but it's not for 3 more months!!! ;)

Quote from: boxcarOkie on April 15, 2011, 05:36:43 AM
, the entire nine yards.  

  You do know that the "whole nine yards" pertains to the length of the .50 calibre ammo belts in a P51 mustang, dont you?  You might wanna know that the next time some historian walks over. Or that the P-38 lightning had the wrong blowers put on and were only good at low altitude? I learned that from an Eagle guy. I thought he was full of his own excrement but he knew his facts.

  I think the key to dealing with dumb people when you wanna get away is to throw something at them thats way over their head. Start talking about the speed of light or relativity or supercolliders or the Saturn V. High physics/science stuff. That should frost their brain pretty good. But God help you if they are a nerd and actually know whats up. Youll be out there talking til the cows come home.

 
 

     

Quote from: Chopper Scott on April 16, 2011, 09:45:10 PM
After spending many years riding my bike all over I found that stopping for fuel was one of the best parts of my trips. Generally it was time to stretch the legs and being a bad a$$ biker on occasion I may even light up a cigarette!! ;D But talking to the locals as they came and went while you were plopped on the sidewalk taking a rest really gave you some good clues as to the type of individuals that called that area home. But the most popular question I get at the majority of all my stops is "Are you headed to Sturgis?". I might but it's not for 3 more months!!! ;)

Too many people for me, don't like large groups and I feel totally uncomfortable walking around with a handkerchief on my head for head apparel (ear ring is okay just don't want a snot rag for a headpiece) .  

I certainly don't think a Cushman Eagle qualifies either.  Best I stay home.  I saw a sign in Wyoming once, it read:  "Warning:  Do not irritate the locals."  You ever seen one of those?

BCO

Quote from: artvonne on April 17, 2011, 01:12:39 AM

Quote from: boxcarOkie on April 15, 2011, 05:36:43 AM
, the entire nine yards.  

 You do know that the "whole nine yards" pertains to the length of the .50 calibre ammo belts in a P51 mustang, dont you?  You might wanna know that the next time some historian walks over. Or that the P-38 lightning had the wrong blowers put on and were only good at low altitude? I learned that from an Eagle guy. I thought he was full of his own excrement but he knew his facts.

 I think the key to dealing with dumb people when you wanna get away is to throw something at them thats way over their head. Start talking about the speed of light or relativity or supercolliders or the Saturn V. High physics/science stuff. That should frost their brain pretty good. But God help you if they are a nerd and actually know whats up. Youll be out there talking til the cows come home.

Art .... There was this nuclear physicist and he was riding around in his limo one day and his chauffeur said to him, "Man, you have it made." and the good doctor said, "How's that?"  So the chauffeur says to him, "I have been watching you.  Every night, you get up on the stage and you give your cheesy speech on nuclear energy and fusion and then you collect your money and go to the next gig.  You have it made.  I have heard that same old tired speech so many times, I could give it in my sleep."

So the physicist says, "Okay, next time I give it.  YOU get up there and YOU give the speech, and you will see how easy it is."

So the chauffeur agreed.  

The next time he gave the speech, at the end of the talk, he did as the professor had done numerous times, he asked if there were any questions?  And one guy, in the back, stood up and asked a question about nuclear energy and fusion.  The Chauffeur rolled it around in his mind a little and then said to the guy ... "In all the years I have been giving this speech on nuclear energy, that is undoubtedly the dumbest question I have ever heard.  It is so dumb, that I am going to call my chauffeur up all the way from the back of the room, to this stage and have HIM answer it for you."

The next time I come across one of these black shocks, brown shoes, pocket protector full of pens, I am going to stand my ground, look 'em firmly in the eye, and then say:  "Yeah?  Do you know how to load a Smart car? ...  That should do it."

BCO