But it was significant because it was My first Harley that I had bought on Columbus Day back in 1991 I had purchased the motorcycle wrecked . James was so small then, but he would often come out to the little 10x12 Morgan shed where I would work on it to check on me and my progress.
I repaired it and rode it "by myself " the first time to Sturgis, in South Dakota. While there I bought James the little leather riding jacket that he wears in the pic. Shortly after returning the Shovelhead motor snapped a camshaft bolt and I had to have someone else do major engine work. It was down throughout the winter, and was rebuilt with several upgrades making it even better than it was then when it was new.
This was one of the first pictures after I got it back. A pogo stick and a small solo seat was added along with a clear windshield in place of the full fairing that came later. The bike had also been repainted.
I had padded a small beanie helmet with a neckerchief bandanna so James head would fit in it snug. We went for his first Harley ride around the driveway while he held on to the acorn decorated gas caps. His arms were too short to comfortably reach the handlebars.
My son has since grown up and moved out on his own. This 76 Liberty edition was later traded in for another Harley. I am still in possession of two other 76 Harleys.. A 76 XL Sportster and also a 1976 Bi Centennial FLH.
I was lucky enough to have become a motorcycle safety instructor. For a period of time also teaching in the Riders Edge Program with Harley Davidson It was then and there that I also got to teach James how to ride.
He doesn't own his own motorcycle, at least not yet, but accassionally we'll still go for a ride together him on his dad's O6 Night Rod . While I am on my O1 Electra-Glide Classic.
It hard to remember when he was that small. But this photo will alway remind me that it's a father and son moment, one that I will always cherish.
