Hey guys,
Thanks for all the nice feedback for the work that's done here at cNw. Its ultimately that support that drives my business and makes it all worth while.
The approach I take when rebuilding one of these machines is not something that everyone can agree with but it's a unique way to take some of the idiosyncrasies out of the machine and make the bike a lot friendlier to work with and enjoy.
These Commandos are arguably the most usable Vintage British machines out there and when you do some of these modifications and upgrades, they get even better.
I have never been one to take short cuts and the most important thing for me when developing, designing or implementing other peoples modifications to my builds, is that those parts are the best they can be. That also sometimes means that they get expensive. However, I would rather have it that way, knowing that it is right as opposed to cutting corners just to make more sales
Of course, there are many ways to build or bring one of these machines back on the road and as been said, there has never been a better time to own one considering all the support and options that we have to get these bikes to the point we want to.
I think its important to point out that not everyone is a 'wrench' or even if they are, they may not want to spend their time off working on a project in the garage. Of course to some on this forum, that is the best part, to get your hands dirty and get as involved with the bike as you can. Having said that, others simply want to do minimal maintenance and get the bike out in the twisties and enjoy it. Has nothing to do with anyone's abilities as much as it has to do with priorities.
I also have a lot of customers that are building their own machines and for them, some of the parts that I have available may fit exactly what they are looking for.
Hard to argue what's right or wrong. We all love these machines for one reason or another and even though some get a bit argumentative with their beliefs (I know I do as well since I obviously believe in what I do at the shop), most everyone is just wanting to get their bike to the point where they think its just perfect....for them.
I am putting the final touches on my new shop (more on this later) that I started building 6 months ago. That together with some personnel changes has made this a very interesting winter but I feel good about where it all is going and looking forward to getting back up to speed and putting some more Commandos back on the road
Thanks
Matt / Colorado Norton Works
http://www.coloradonortonworks.com