Long Live 3Wheeling Magazine [Archive] - Page 2

oldfart

06-10-2004, 12:20 AM

About the R&D departments.... I tried several times to get a trip to Japan and see what was going on behind the scenes. But no-go. I really don't have much scoop on that segment over seas, other than once these Japanese wiz-kids came out with something, they would send it to California, and have some of the Team riders, or hired racers, to ride them to death (the ATCs, not the riders). Tim Orchard did a lot of testing for Honda on the Pilot and late Odyssey. He would go around a set course, at a set speed, with a lap full of sensors plugged into all kinds of areas. Again and again. Every time he would hot-lap the Odyssey, the Japanese engineers would bawl him out for trying to f-up their testing equipment. Tim said it got very boring after awhile, since he could not go out and have fun. Just the same course, over and over again....... Ron Hasle did testing on the 250R, as did Craig Peterson.

Since we would do much of our testing during the week days, we often ran into a box truck out in the middle of no-where. These Japanese engineers hated to see my Toyota truck pull up! I remember one time Suzuki was testing a pre-production Quad 80 with a bunch of kids, and dads in a field near Escondido. I was tipped off about the test, so I showed up as Joe-Blow. One of the engineers asked me if I would like to give it a spin? I of course, smiled and jumped at the chance. I went out and rode the piss out of that thing, hanging my legs out, power-sliding it around the turns, and beating that prototype to death! After about a dozen laps (which they video taped), I pulled over and handed it back to them. They looked at me with a puzzled look, and asked, "Who are you anyway?" I don't think they expected an adult to go out and thrash their new toy like that. It was a blast.

Howdy

06-10-2004, 09:28 AM

Since we would do much of our testing during the week days, we often ran into a box truck out in the middle of no-where. These Japanese engineers hated to see my Toyota truck pull up! I remember one time Suzuki was testing a pre-production Quad 80 with a bunch of kids, and dads in a field near Escondido. I was tipped off about the test, so I showed up as Joe-Blow. One of the engineers asked me if I would like to give it a spin? I of course, smiled and jumped at the chance. I went out and rode the piss out of that thing, hanging my legs out, power-sliding it around the turns, and beating that prototype to death! After about a dozen laps (which they video taped), I pulled over and handed it back to them. They looked at me with a puzzled look, and asked, "Who are you anyway?" I don't think they expected an adult to go out and thrash their new toy like that. It was a blast.

Another wonderful story!! That would have been priceless to be there. Did you tell them who you really was?
Howdy

250rAL

06-10-2004, 09:46 PM

I've got issues of 3Wheeling from March of '85 til the end. They are a priceless source of info for machines from that era. The guys at 3Wheeling did a lot more testing and product reviews then the mags you can get now. I found the '85 250R carb shootout especially helpfull as I used it to decide which carb to put on mine. It also helped me figure out that the needle it came with wasn't the best choice and when I put the one in that was mentioned in the article, my machine ran much better. I still look through them sometimes and dream about the "old days". Judging by the prices that single issues bring on eBay($25-30), they're worth a fortune. I'll never give them up!

Billy Golightly

06-14-2004, 10:55 PM

Hey Dean,

I got an email from Jackie Meadows this evening and asked him to stop by and say hey. I told him how you have been posting here, I hope he does.

Do you think the recent influx of people who were involved directly with the industry is a sign that threewheelers are making a comback, even if it is only from a "Collectors" point of view? Does it seem like its possible?

Billy

Fox250R

06-15-2004, 01:27 AM

Hey dean,I've been a 3wheeling mag fan forever!..I raced trikes for years..I would guess i own 150 issues or more,hehe i've never really counted them....Im 31 now,and i still have them tucked away in my bedroom that i love to read from time to time.One of my favorite bike vs test you guys did was between the 250R and the 225DX lol,I still love to read about that one..I still remember how i use to lay in my bed at night way pass my bedtime reading away.Well i own a 85 ATC250R and trying to find parts or even stickers these days is becoming a chore.Its hard to believe seeing all that ATC racing in the mags and how long ago it was..I think its great after so long your back out here doing what you loved to do for so long,Talking trikes!! Im so glad to kinda get to meet you and hear your stories..I hope you stick around the forums for a longtime..Well thats it,good luck with all your fans out here :p Take Care!
Jeff

TimSr

06-15-2004, 09:27 AM

Wow! I guess I should have paid closer attention to this thread! Its a little late, but Id still like to welcome you to the site, Dean. Ive got tons of questions from a historical perspective, but I wont force you to be a full time poster at the moment! Its great to have a first hand witness from the old days on board.

Billy Golightly

06-27-2004, 08:24 PM

Still out there Dean?

oldfart

06-29-2004, 06:15 PM

hondatrikesrule22

06-29-2004, 06:23 PM

Do you have any stickers left?

oldfart

06-29-2004, 09:26 PM

Yes, I have one more handful left...

hondatrikesrule22

06-29-2004, 09:40 PM

Alright cool, you have a dollar sent your way! :)

Billy Golightly

06-29-2004, 10:59 PM

Yes, I am stopping by every now and then. This time of year, I travel alot; Texas, Florida, Connecticut, Arizona, Michigan, Washington, and on and on. So, unless I see a specific question, I usually let this thread run on its own. I can't believe that there has been 10,700+ hits! Dean

Ah, ok! I'm in the northern end of Florida, a little northwest of Lake City. If your ever in the area please let me know, be more then glad to buy you dinner.

This topic is without a doubt the most popular and most viewed on ever on this forum. Shows that there is still interest out there!

oldfart

07-04-2004, 12:36 PM

Happy 4th of July to one and all. With this holiday in mind, I can remember one such "wild" Fourth weekend, back about 1982, where we traveled to the Coral Pink sand dunes, and stayed in Kanab, Utah. Small town, small stadium, freaky vistors.... I'll explain. If you look back at our report on Coral Pink, we mentioned about going there with a bunch of guys from Las Vegas. They liked, and I quote, "Young girls and old Whiskey," 'nough said? Money was no problem with these guys, they were loaded! Full-time drivers, mechanics, some flew to the dunes in their own Bell helicopter, others flew into the International Kanab airport with their private jet. Limos, motorhomes, enclosed trailers, ATCs, Odysseys, full wet bar, you name it.

After a few days of duning, it was the 4th of July, and we all went into town to see the "official" fireworks display, held at the local stadium. Randy, one of the bunch from Las Vegas, asked one of the officials if he could light off some of his fireworks after the regular show. "Yeah, no problem".... he must have thought Randy had a $29 box full of Red Devil specials. Little did he know that these guys came prepared for a serious show of their own... After the town's rather boring, small-time fireworks display had finsihed, everyone in the stadium began to file out, and head for home.

Then it happened, Randy and crew began to light-off everything they had..... and all hell broke loose. Next thing we know, those fireworks, I mean SERIOUS fireworks began to blast-off and explode everywhere! Crap was landing in the stands, lighting fires in the planters, sky rockets were screaming over your head, people couldn't figure out what in the hell was going on! So, figuring that this was another show, many began to file back into the stadium, and sit down. Traffic jam? Within a few minutes, there was a fireworks show like this town had never seen before. These guys had spent thousands of bucks on professional fireworks, which was about three times more than the Kanab Chamber of Commerce had spent on the real fireworks display, twenty-minutes earlier. Soon, the fire trucks began to dispatch, and they were told to stop! "But you told us we could light-off our own fireworks?"

So, for a few minutes back about twenty-two years ago today, an ATC group went where no other ATC group had ever gone before.... in Kanab Utah. Enjoy.

trailboss

07-04-2004, 04:06 PM

hey dean!! did you ever get to test the pilot??

oldfart

07-05-2004, 01:25 AM

Yes, I did, up at the Florance Sand Dunes, in Oregon with American Honda. Since I had driven numerous VW-powered dune buggies over the years, I was not all that impressed with the performance, and most important, the lack of someone as a passenger to enjoy the fun with you. At the time, the Pilot was $6000-7000, which again, at the time, was about what a 1600cc tube chassis buggies could be built for. I think Honda over-estimated the market on that one.

Billy Golightly

07-09-2004, 12:56 PM

Dean whats your opinon the 200cc class racers that the factories and aftermarket shops did? For example the Team Green Tecate 200's, the sleeved down 250R's, the 200R Honda built. Do you think they could have made it and been successfull to the general public or where they always just destined to be works machines?

oldfart

07-10-2004, 08:55 PM

I think the 2-stroke class was up and coming, and was very popular... right up to the fall out of the 3-wheeler market. Like the popular 125 class in motorcylce racing, the 3-wheeler 200cc class (2-stroke) could have really caught on. I really think that Honda would have built an ATC 200R like Stevie and Tommy rode, for the general public. Kawaski? Hard to say. They sure were exciting to watch race!

Yamahammer490

07-11-2004, 11:25 PM

Hey Oldfart,

What was the strangest trike concept the factories every showed you? I know the Dirt Wheels made a reverse-trike by putting a quad conversion front end onto a Yamaha BW. Did the factories ever have a concept like this? Or maybe independent rear suspension?

Where were they headed before the Consumer Product Stupidity Commission pulled the plug?

timex69

07-12-2004, 08:22 PM

my freind recently put himself in hospital for over a week on my blaster...but none of my freinds have ever been hurt on a 3 wheeler and they all have a big red in their familys.

just my 2 cents

oldfart

07-13-2004, 12:22 AM

That whole idea of a backward 3-wheeler was a real crock of you know what. It was thought up by Dirt Wheel's art director, Dennis West of all people (a real 3wheeler enthusiast)..yuk, yuk. That thing was totally unrideable, and was a real joke among the people involved. It couldn't do anything right, but they did get some semi-slide shots and a jump for the cover thanks to the Wolfman. I will give Dirt Wheels a lot of credit for creating a magazine that would sell.... forget the truth, just publish a nice looking package that people will buy. They are still in business, and 3Wheeling is not. Enough said.

The strangest trike by the factory? Hmmm. I would have to think about that one for awhile. Most likely, from Kawaski. They seem to have come from outer space on some of their ideas back then. I recall when Lee Rogers was in their R&D department, he build a 250cc 3wheeler race model for the SCORE Riverside Off-Road Championships in '82 (way before the Tecate was out).At the last minute, he took the trike out of the trailer and hauled ass up to the starting line. After the first practice, we took off looking for it in the pits. It was no where to be found. Turns up, they didn't want anyone to look too close up, so they ditched it right after the race was over. It was a hand-built 3-wheeler, built by their skunkworks black options department.... Top secret, need-to-know basis, I'll have to kill you if you see it in person... that sorta thing. I talked to him months later, and he said he saw us searching around the pits and he knew we were searching for his project. Years later, that project became the backbone for the Tecate.....

Mobular

07-13-2004, 12:42 AM

Quite possibly this one?

trikerider2oo7

07-13-2004, 09:30 AM

cool story dean...mobular, that trike is awesome! where did you get that pic?

oldfart

07-13-2004, 11:36 AM

Yes, I do believe that is Lee Rogers sitting on the edge of that Kawaski shop van. Ah, of course, now that you have seen it, we'll have to send the men in (green) over to pay you a visit.... Very good find!

Billy Golightly

07-13-2004, 02:29 PM

Hey Dean,

Not sure if you seen the post, but a little while back I was looking around on the US patent office website and found patent papers (Including drawings) for several strange looking threewheelers that were designed by Honda. The link to that thread is here: http://3wheelerworldforums.com/showthread.php?t=23751

You mentioned that you thought Honda was seriously considering producing the 200R, Is it possible that they would have went as far to go ahead and get a patent filed? When I was browsing I seen several that were marked "Retracted" which makes me wonder what they really were.

Aussieboy1

07-17-2004, 08:50 PM

Hi mate glad to see yopu on board .. I used tio race trikes for Honda in Aussie back in the day 83-86 I still got all the issues or 3 wheeler mag from aug 81 onwards and all dirt wheels mags as well. Now living in New Zealand but brought my trikes with me

greenhuman

07-18-2004, 04:01 AM

Well thats news. I never knew anyone raced trikes for Honda in Australia.

oldfart

07-18-2004, 11:01 PM

Dean Sundahl raced for Honda of Australia for a period of time in the mid-eighties. I still have his signed helmet in my office (with Honda of Australia stickers along the chops).

greenhuman

07-19-2004, 01:24 AM

I'll rephrase that. I never heard of any Australian racing ATC's for Honda. Dean raced for a shop in Queensland called Peter Rice Honda, which was probably helped out by Honda. But a full Honda ride here did not happen to my recollection. I raced against Dean in the Queensland championships in 1985 and finished second to him. I was the only rider to be drawn to race against him in all the flat track and motocross races that day.
I also saw the Honda ATC team race at Speedway 117 at Chula Vista in May 1982. I have photo's of your 3 Wheeling "ghost" project trike as well.

oldfart

07-19-2004, 10:47 PM

Very cool. Thanks for clearing up the Sundahl/Honda deal in Australia. 3Wheeling actually had two ATC 250Rs - both white. The Ghost, which was our first, had the Mystery Link suspension, which I believe was the very first Honda ATC with a rising-link rear suspension. We also had 35mm forks. The second racer was a short-course setup, which Harry McDermit rode at Speedway 117, Saddleback and Riverside. What was interesting about the short-course setup was, Darryl Bassani ported that engine, but Harry never liked the setup. Darryl and I worked on that for days, but it never did well. So, we took the top end off, and used another one for our racer, and in the meantime, Darryl put that same top end on Jimmy White's first Honda (before he rode for Kawasaki), and won San Jose!

motoman1012002

08-06-2004, 04:35 PM

so are you done now for good riding the 3 wheelers. I knwo out where you live theres tons of them. You ever goin to get one just to put put around on :beer

hondatrikesrule22

08-06-2004, 04:36 PM

Hey dean, did you ever get that dollar I sent you for the sticker?

kryppy

08-07-2004, 09:58 PM

Wow, I learned more in an hour than I have in a long time.
Thanks for an awesome thread full of memories and great new info.

It seems like only yesterday when the Honda dealers were full of shiney new ATC's. I wiah I would have bought one years ago.

oldfart

08-09-2004, 03:08 PM

Hi gang, I've been out of town a bunch lately, so I haven't had a chance to keep up with this tread (13,000+ hits). The last stickers request I received was from Texas City, TX. They go out today. I have to admit, I haven't rode a 3-wheeler for ten years plus, and a Quad for nearly that long as well. I'm not saying I wouldn't do it again, but it just not a big priority for me these days. My neighbor's kid was riding up and down my street the other day, on his 185S. It had a pipe and cam, etc., and I certainly don't mind the sound of a built 4-stroke! Even up and down my street. Hey, I make enough noise in my gargage! Anyway, I was inside working, and all I could hear was the major flat spot this Honda had at 1/4-throttle. It was driving me nuts, so I went out, and suggested that I play with it for a few minutes to get rid of that horrible stumble. After two needle moves, it was smoother than ever before. I guess I miss that sort of thing.

One thing that I just remember about the "early" days, was that when ATCs were part of a motorcycle show/race, those guys ususually thought of us as some type of outlaws, or wacko/fringe riders. I recall bumping into Jody W. of Motocross Action at one of the major events, and he looked at me like I was the scum of the earth... "Oh, they let THOSE things in here too?" Yes, Jody, and they don't read your mag as well.

CHAINSAW

08-09-2004, 03:32 PM

Sad things is.... at most places we are still looked upon the same way. I guess thats why Id rather drive an old trike, instead of the new (not to mention slower) new machines.

Yardbird

08-10-2004, 02:49 PM

Thanks for all the great stories about the early days of 3-wheelers. I grew up riding 3-wheelers starting off on a ATC110 all the way up to my '85 ATC350X which I still have today and wouldn't trade it for anything. I always prefered 3-Wheeling mag over Dirt Wheels any day. I still have some of the old issues and was just recently reading the project 350X articles. Two of my favorite riders back then were Marty Hart and Jimmy White. I liked Marty because he was a Honda rider and could flat out haul, but I liked Jimmy because he would give them Honda boys all they could handle and then some.

Didn't ride my first quad until a year ago. I still prefer a 3-wheeler over a quad in the dunes. I think it is easier to transisition fron one dune to the other with just one front wheel. It just stinks when you are getting hammered by the newer, bigger CC's quads going up Oldsmobile or China Wall. That's the only reason why I bought a Quad was to have some fun racing up the Hills. I remember when the Quads were first hitting the scene and I looked at them the same way Dirt Bikers would look at us haha. That was until the 250R quad version came out and I knew it was the end of the "glory days" for 3-wheelers. Thanks again for the great stories oldfart.

hondatrikesrule22

08-13-2004, 07:10 PM

Hey Dean, I just recieved my stickers today. Thanks. :D

mozone22

08-13-2004, 08:16 PM

HONDA 200X,185S,250R!!! HAD THEM ALL!! YOU DRIVE A THREE WHEELER !!!!!!! ALL WERE A BLAST!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! :TrikesOwn :Bounce :TrikesOwn

BigGreenMachine

08-18-2004, 11:58 PM

Hey Dean, Caviga question, what gas tank did they use, looks like a KDX tank or old KX tank.

Dammit!

09-07-2004, 12:10 PM

I just found this board last night and have now read this entire thread. Thanks to Dean and everyone for sharing their memories. It really brought back a lot of mine. I started riding three wheelers in 1982 on my best friends brand new 110. Two years later in November of 1984 when I was a 11, I got my own first bike. A brand spanking new, red white and blue 1985 ATC 200x. Quite possibly the best day of my life. :)

This pic was taken a couple of winters later.
http://members.cox.net/dnotter2/200x.jpg

I ended up getting a 1986 250r a few years later that I'm getting ready to restore now. It's been broken down forever but I can't fight the itch anymore.
http://members.cox.net/dnotter2/mybabyneedsafacelift.jpg

Even riding from such an early age and getting a bike that was a tad too big for me when I was 11 years old (good thing though, I shot up the next year) I never had a serious injury. I still remember the 20/20 reports (sensationalism at it's worst) and all the BS of the political goings ons at the time.

I don't want to talk about that. I'll just say that those years of my youth were the best of my life. The freedom of off road riding combined with the bonds created with other riders make for some of my fondest memories.

I could tell some stories as well but I'm not sure they'd be viewed in a positive light. My friends and I had multiple run-ins with the Police where I grew up even though to this day I don't think they had any right to harass us most of the time. There were other times later on that we were extremely irresponsible though. I think you can chalk that up to the old saying of, "treat someone like a criminal, they'll become criminal" because we were always pretty respectful until the Police started messing with us for no reason. After that got going in full swing we all became bandits somewhat, and delighted in embarassing the authorities (not to mention a certain farmer that we all thought caused the entire problem just because he was a bitter old a$$hole).

I'll tell a few if anyone is interested. Some of you may get a good laugh out of them. Some of you may think I was just an idiot. :)

AZ250R

09-07-2004, 05:25 PM

If I remember right my first was a Honda ATC 190!?!? I need to get some old pics from my parents to scan in and show but I remember it having the bigest tires of the time and the new similar trikes were all 185s. So I'm think'n it's model year to be 80-81? & I got it around 83. No front suspension, or rear for that matter, all in the tires and boy would that thing bounce. I also remember going as fast as it could on the old highway near my house and the front tire would expand so much it wore a hole in the front fender! Damn that was funny, had to ducktape it so the mud wouldn't spatter out it. Glad to not have to pull start anymore either. I remember try'n to pull that thing in sub 0 weather and it could take 20 min pluss just to get it to turn over. Some winter days in Wyoming you could NEVER pull start a bike like that, just too damn cold. Funny thing is I just haven't read anything about there being any 190s before the 185s on here though, so is my memory failing already.... jees :rolleyes:

I'd kind of like to have it again now for collector / nestalgic reasons. I kept it clean & it always kept on chugg'n.

atcmatt

09-07-2004, 10:17 PM

Gday Dammit,

I would love to hear some of your stories. Nothing like a good story. Sounds like you and your mates had some good times. Tell as many as you want.

Much Appreciated,

Matt

Dammit!

09-07-2004, 11:04 PM

Gday Dammit,

I would love to hear some of your stories. Nothing like a good story. Sounds like you and your mates had some good times. Tell as many as you want.

Much Appreciated,

Matt

Well first some background is in order. Keep in mind I was between the ages of 12 and 17 for most of this.

I lived in an area that I could just ride from my garage to the place I wanted to ride at. No hauling the bikes. But, to do that I had to go down this 20 foot wide, half mile long stretch of dirt next to a farmers sod field. As we later verified, the farmer did not own this stretch of dirt but he used it and claimed it as his own. He was a real trailprotrailprotrailprotrailprotrailprotrailprotrailpro type of person. Hated the world. He tried making it impossible for us to traverse this stretch by dumping shitloads of dirt there which just made it much more fun and when he saw that, he just got more pissed off at us. At this point none of us had ever damaged his crops. Not on his sod field or any of his surrounding corn fields. This stretch of land was all we ever used and it wasn't even his but he's the one that started all the nonsense. He ended up buying a 200s and chasing after us several times and the son of a trailprotrailprotrailprotrailprotrailpro even shot rocksalt at us with a shotgun (and that trailprotrailprotrailprotrailpro hurts even from a distance). During this time the cops started harassing us too (gee, I wonder who called them). A couple of my friends got stopped by the police (off road mind you) and the cops just impounded their bikes on the spot. No warnings, nothing.

The rocksalt shotgun and the police harassment were the last straw. The entire group of us (four 200x's, three 250r's and several dirt bikes) just destroyed the guys sod field in the middle of the night during a rain storm and from that night forward, the corn fields were fair game too. No more stopping for the Police either. They'd have to catch us.

I had to go downtown for questioning over the sod field damage. However, nobody saw anything and we all knew it (besides that, most of us had similar bikes and similar helmets so nobody could tell us apart anyway). No charges were ever filed.

The Police started getting extremely aggressive at trying to catch us after that. We found out that if they didn't actually catch us on the bikes, there wasn't anything they could do. They knew who we were and where we lived but due to the similarities between bikes and gear (not a coincidence by the way) they had no case against anyone. Getting chased by (sometimes multiple) squad cars was almost a daily occurence for a long time. The city put up fences trying to block out paths to certain places. The cops even harassed us on PRIVATE PROPERTY that we had written permission to ride on if you can believe that.

The fun part though, was that we quickly realized they couldn't catch us as long as we stayed alert and didn't let them catch us in a trap. After that, the game was on! We humiliated the cops routinely. The guys on the 250r's especially had fun with them (I had a 200x when this all got started). They'd actually stop when they'd reach the railroad tracks and let them catch up! The railroad tracks were always like our safety net. If you can get to the tracks before they catch you, you were home free. After a while we stopped giving a trailprotrailprotrailprotrailpro about riding only off road (since they harassed us anywhere we went, why bother obeying the laws anymore). We'd ride straight down the street in traffic. Pulling up to the gas station was nerve wracking though. That's when we were always vulnerable.

So that's the back story. Looking back now some of the things we did were not only extremely dangerous (some of the chases defy description, you wouldn't believe me if I told you, really). I'll tell you a few though. Only time for one right now. I have to go get some dinner after this.

Ok, a friend of mine pulled his car into the city park one night so he could make out with his girlfriend in the dark. Problem was, it rained that day so he got stuck on one of the baseball diamonds. I heard all the noise he was making trying to get out so I went out there with my friends that were over to see what was up. We tried to help him but he was completely stuck. Had to call a tow truck.

While we were waiting for the tow truck, a cop pulled into the parking lot and setup a speed trap. He has no idea we were back there and how much damage my friends car had done to the park at this point. The tow truck was going to be there any second so we called upon my best friends little brother Marky. He had a 1982 CR80 dirt bike in my back yard (my 200x was down for repairs this time). We said to him, go get on your bike and get that cop to chase you out of here! He agreed. Cop didn't take the bait the first time so when he got back we made him do it again but this time, we told him to do a donut right in front of him and flip him the bird before taking off. That did the trick! Funniest damn thing I ever saw. Cop took off after him that time and I swear not two minutes later the tow truck pulled in, got the car out of the mud and everyone got away scott free!

atcmatt

09-08-2004, 12:44 AM

Great Story ;) I really enjoyed that, in fact i enjoyed it so much i showed it to my dad who just laughed...Sounds like you terrors used to have alot of fun with those cops and that old cranky farmer.
If you have any more stories and a bit of spare time dont hesitate to write more up. Im sure everyone would be grateful. I know i would be :)

Thanks,

Matt

Dammit!

09-08-2004, 01:18 AM

Great Story ;)

Sounds like you terrors used to have alot of fun with those cops and that old cranky farmer.

Thanks,

Matt

Not just the cops and the farmer. :twisted:

My very first rebelious act with my 200x. :)

Last day of school. 6th grade. I had just turned 12 and only had the bike for a few months. I was a bit of a problem child all through school. Not sure why really but I was always in trouble for one thing or another. Had a problem with authority I guess. Anyway, I got into it with my school principle on the last day of school. It was lunch hour and I think I just popped a bag really loud or something. I can't even remember. I didn't realize the principle was right behind me. He had this hard-on for paddling kids but I would never let him hit me. I'd just stand there and argue with him and knock his hands away when he tried to grab me (god... think of what would happen to a principle if they were to try that in this day and age). So after arguing with him for a couple of minutes he kicks me out. Tells me to go home. Now keep in mind I was bussed to school. It was a few miles from my house and this guy kicks me out, doesn't let me call anyone and had been a pain in my ass for the last three years.

So I start walking home. A large section of woods that we all rode in was on the way home so I cut through there. Luckily a couple of my riding buddies had cut school that day (they were older than me, high schoolers) and gave me a ride home. So, about twenty minutes after he kicks me out in front of the entire lunch room, I show up on the 200x. Full face Simpson helmet with tinted goggle lenses and all. My class is out at recess so I buzz the crowd to make sure they watch as I ride over to the window in front of my (now former) principle's office. Last day of school means it's spring time. In Ohio. That means it's pretty muddy from the spring rains and snow melt. I stopped right outside his window and rev the engine. I can see his bald, shining head through the window slowly turn around to see what the noise is. I wave. And then commence the biggest, messiest donut I had ever done in my life. Got grass and mud all over his windows (and some on the classroom next to his office). My classmates were on the playground laughing and cheering me on as I rode off into the mid-day sun, victorious. :cool:

I realize the sillyness of that one now as an adult. But, at the time, it was the coolest thing I had ever done.

atcmatt

09-08-2004, 03:58 AM

LMAO!!! Sounds like something that happens in my dreams... :Bounce

That was a great story!!!

Thanks

Matt

350xsx

09-16-2004, 03:15 PM

haha some of your stories sound just like mine, to get to where i ride i have to ride down the NJ Parkway(i think they call em expressways by you or somethin)anyways a big 4 lane highway, we get the state police after us and everything, they chase us with Recons and everything to, to get to woods we also have to on the sides of a farmers field but he doesnt care cuz we go slow and dont mess anything up.we lose them by the time we get to our houses though

bbechtel16

10-14-2004, 09:15 PM

:rofl: I loved those stories Dammit!

tecate uk

10-19-2004, 06:51 PM

hi there i have recently come across this great site i think its great how many people love these trikes .
i cant belive they stopped making them why did they?

Wild250R

10-21-2004, 04:18 PM

Too True! Don't know why they don't start making them again? Nothing stopping them really, just propaganda generated from ignorance. The bikes are still being riden the same as they were before they were "banned", if the government was so concerned about the "unstable nature" and "fundamentally inherited design flaws", they should have completely outlawed their use! Further more if the American Government banned the import of Trikes, they should at least ban Quads too, if they are really concerned over stablity. I run a Quad biking center and see plently of fools stack four wheelers just as, if not, more easily, than trikes, the false sense of security from four wheels, people get complacent and don't respect the bike or themselves!
Driving all motorized vehicles is dangerous, deadly etc etc.... but it is'ent the vehicle thats the danger it's the ignorant begger that's doing the driving that's the danger!
We suffered, for other fools.

mad_max

10-22-2004, 09:38 PM

.... the false sense of security from four wheels, people get complacent and don't respect the bike or themselves!
Driving all motorized vehicles is dangerous, deadly etc etc....

RIGHT ON!!! I'd guess that 99.9% of the people on this board would agree with you.
Cheers :beer

wizzard

10-25-2004, 07:32 AM

Dude ! I grew up begging my parents for the money to buy that magazine each month. It's great to here from you and know that you are doing well.
GOD Bless, wizzard

MY86350X

10-25-2004, 10:52 PM

i want to see those 3 wheeln magazines

Pistonhead

10-30-2004, 11:37 PM

Dammit, those stories were awesome man!

Pistonhead

10-30-2004, 11:45 PM

You guys were like the dukes of hazzard on trikes

Lots_Of_Nothing

10-31-2004, 01:22 AM

Hey Dean,

I have a pretty simple question for you. You know Curtis Sparks of course, and that he is real famous with his engine work and pipes, etc.. nowadays (www.sparksracing.com). I'm curious as to if you know why he is so sour to anything having to do with ATC's?. Awhile back I e-mailed him telling him that a couple of his 200X engines are still around and are a very sought after item, And I asked him if he could tell me a few details about them, or anything at all about his team honda career. well, I recieved a short, simple e-mail in reply, it went like this;

"No knowledge on three wheelers, sorry."

I replied asking why he appeared to be so sour towards the sport that he was so well known for, and I received a undeliverable mail message, saying that my e-mail is blocked.

I also know a couple other people who e-mailed him just nice e-mails, and they got practically the same reply.

I can understand that he may be sick of it, and just doesnt want to think about it anymore, but it just seemed strange to me that someone like curtis sparks would act like they know nothing about it and not say more then six words about it.

Any input?

Blown 331

11-01-2004, 06:59 PM

What was the scoop on the ATC450R? I want to put a CRF450R motor in a 350X frame. I know the uni-cam motor wasn't around then so what was it?

trikerider2oo7

11-02-2004, 06:04 PM

the atc450r idea was a 2-stroke

oldfart

11-05-2004, 11:23 AM

I can only guess about what was going through Curtis Spark's head at that time... Like many of us that came from that era, we have all been bombarded with legal hassles, being called into court, to give our two cents worth about why people get hurt on 3-wheelers. I know from personal experiences that I was called many times to try and explain why "things" happen to people that abuse these vehicles. Forget about the booze, riding double, not wearing safety gear (helmets), dangerous situations (trains, cars, boats), closed land, no lights at night - you name it, they broke/crashed/killed people. I was once asked why Honda put a front brake on the ATC200X? The lawyer had NEVER ridden a motorcycle let alone an ATV off-road. How do to talk to these clowns when they have no point of reference, other than to shake down the manufacturers. Curtis is the best in my book. Sorry he has decided to move on, and work on what is currently being raced, and possibly sold. Dean

Jeb

11-05-2004, 12:05 PM

Dean, did you ever make it down to Boyd Raceway in Boyd, Texas? I know it was a stop on the National Circuit in the 80's. I've got an old "competitor's" magazine that has a writeup. Did 3-wheeling ever do one? I live about 30 minutes from the track and I believe they still run dirt track bikes and cars out there.

Occasionally I pass by the track and can just imagine the 3-wheeler racing back in the day. I know Mike Kidd used to own it. If he still owns it, he's not promoting it from the little info I can about it on the net. "Brand-X's" magazine I have says Mike put on a good show at Boyd.

Just wondering if you had any thoughts, memories, stories, etc. Thanks!

I found there website so I guess Mike Kidd no longer owns it and it's mostly just dirt track car racing anymore:

http://www.boydraceway.net/

oldfart

11-05-2004, 02:09 PM

Yes, 3Wheeling/ATV Sports did cover at least one ATV race at Mike Kidd's place. In fact, that's where our former ad guy, Lance Bryson met Mike, and later, went to work for him full time. I personally didn't cover the event, but I believe Lance and Phil Beckman, or even Bruce Simurda may have been there. Strange, I never went to Texas during the '80s, but nowadays, I'm there all the time!

threewheelin-feelin

11-05-2004, 05:54 PM

hey i think i read in one of your post you gave up all of your bikes and just keep your helmets...... why did you give up riding 3wheelers..... are you ever gonna buy another one??

Billy Golightly

11-05-2004, 06:51 PM

twf if you go back to the first few pages that question has already been asked and answered :-)

threewheelin-feelin

11-05-2004, 11:33 PM

ok sorry about that

oldfart

11-06-2004, 12:08 PM

I still have the original Project ATC from the very first issue. If you recall, that one has a Dickson frame with a springer front end, 180cc Danny Duncan engine (chromed and polished), custom paint, etc. But am I ever going to ride it? No.

trikerider2oo7

11-06-2004, 07:12 PM

does it still run?

oldfart

11-07-2004, 12:05 PM

I'm sure the engine still does. I only fired it a few times, and ran it up and down the street, once the engine was increased to 180cc. The engine has been tucked away in the rafters since 1984, and so has the rear fender and seat assembly. However, the rest of the ATC has been sitting outside under a tarp, and is showing its age. I am going to do nothing with this project.... hint, hint. Dean

trikerider2oo7

11-07-2004, 01:17 PM

does hint hint mean for sale? i want that thing!

oldfart

11-07-2004, 02:14 PM

I would consider selling it "AS IS" with no guarantees... Shipping would be a problem, as it would add up (at least four or five boxes). So, it would have to taken apart to get small enough, light enough, to ship UPS/Fed-Ex Ground. But, it certainly could be done. I'm in San Diego by the way.... I will think about it over the next two weeks, as I am about to leave for "Down Under." I do still have the original "pink slip" title, owners manual, etc. It was based on a 1975 ATC 90. Man, that was a long time ago. But, this is what I remember:
Dickson Frame
Dickson Springer Front End
Mitchell aluminum wheels
Goodyear knobbie tires
180cc engine by Danny Duncan (chromed and polished)
Cibie Oscar light with guard
Renthal bars w/Grab On grips
Custom Lyle paintjob
Brad's custom seat (2)
aluminum side covers
chain tensioner
S&S header
ice chest rack
This ATC, minus the engine and rear seat assembly has been outside for a number of years. Not much rust, but some. Sun faded, semi-flat tires, but the chassis was powdercoated, and much of the goodies were chromed, including the entire front forks and springer stuff.

trikerider2oo7

11-07-2004, 03:41 PM

how much would you take for it? that thing sounds awesome! it may need some work but i bet someone...if its too expensive for me....would love to have that

atcmatt

11-08-2004, 06:22 AM

Hey Dean.

I hear your heading "downunder", I take it your talking about Australia?

Where abouts are you heading? ANd is it for business or just a holiday? If you dont mind me asking...

Matt

Billy Golightly

11-08-2004, 11:38 AM

Hey Dean,

I was checking out some pictures from the Legends of ATV Racing in 2000 and seen your name mentioned along with a picture. What was it like being around all the guys again? Would you come to it again if there was another one? http://atvscene.com/schedules/fast-trak-events/fast-trak-events-legends-2000.htm

oldfart

11-08-2004, 12:01 PM

Tim Orchard and I had a great time at that reunion. I hadn't seen many of those racers in years. I think the part I enjoyed the most was to actually sit down and talk to Dean Sundahl, without all the pressures of a real race going on (and Wes McCoy standing nearby!). During the "good old days," Dean and I were always too busy to say much more than "Good Luck" or, "It was a fun race." This time, I was able to ask Dean some questions that I'd been wondering about for years, mostly about the prototype ATCs, and testing. Since Tim Orchard is still very much into the ATV industry (with OMF), he had a greater connection with what was going on today, rather than me, who didn't keep up with squat. I'm sure, that both of us would do it again, some time. Dean
P.S. I am headed for Melbourne, Australia for a great vintage car swap meet in Bendigo this weekend. Then, off to Auckland, New Zealand for another trip up in the hills to a very remote auto wrecker than is full of old car stuff. Name of this place is Horopito. Back in two weeks.

Billy Golightly

11-08-2004, 01:55 PM

Have a nice trip Dean!

1983yamaha225

11-16-2004, 08:25 PM

My Trike is a mystery!!!! i just got into this stuff i love it!! names~joe name on here is 1983yamaha225 but i dont really no if that is what mine is. its the same color "yellow" camshaft i no its a yamaha but i dont no the ccs or the vin number or anything it starts fine but it boggs and it cuts off any1 have any idea what i am saying pelease help me in anyway thanks a ton if u can help me! PS: the spark plug that fits in it is a NGK 8812 i think!

1983yamaha225

11-17-2004, 02:46 PM

I have a big Prblem I think i have a 83 or 84 yamaha. its camshaft driven. Yellow. If you cAN HELP ME IDENTIFY THIS MACHINE I WILL BE SO HAPPY. IT HAS 5 SPEEDS NO REVERSE. BEHIND THE SEAT THERE ARE 2 HOLES IN THE BACK MAYBE RACK? PLZ HELP ME

atcmatt

11-18-2004, 02:31 AM

Ha, I beleive you have a 1983 Yamaha 225 dx. Oh and by the way its not "camshaft" driven, its shaft driven. :p

The camshaft is in the top end.

Matt

Howdy

12-03-2004, 10:14 AM

I was just reading a few of the replies here when I Noticed Oldfarts last posting. For those of you who didn't know he was the editor of 3Wheeling Magazine. Oldfarts last posting was #333 in this thread. That is a lot of "3's", He may just be hung up on 3 Wheelers. :w00t: :w00t:

Oldfart, any chance you will be doing a "Project Trike ( VW style )" in your Magazine? hehe

Howdy

oldfart

12-04-2004, 01:04 AM

Believe it or not, we still do get requests for VW-powered trikes in Hot VWs. Now, would I build a VW-powered 3-wheeler for the street? No. A VW-powered Manx buggy maybe, but not a 3-wheeler on the street. Give me an ATC 350X in the sand any day!

Bad Karma

12-08-2004, 11:52 AM

Hey Dean,

Reading all this has really brought back some great memories for me. I was racing a 200X in high school back in 1986-87, right before the bottom dropped out. I still remember my very last race, because it was the very last race I could find locally (Arizona). I was about to make the switch to the 200cc two-stroke class. I was still an amateur, but I had a friend who was just turning pro. He had a Klemm Research Tri-Z 200, and later he bought a Klemm Tecate 200 from Donnie Luce. Awesome machine, my friend could swap out the cylinder to change it back to 250cc to run in that class, also. I can't remember if Donnie Luce was a privateer or factory rider at that time, I believe he was a privateer racing 200 two-stroke pro class. Haven't seen my friend in years, I may look him up to see what happened to those trikes.

I finally got back into 3 wheeling recently, and I still love it.

Thanks again for the great stories!

oldfart

12-10-2004, 01:06 AM

Donnie Luce still works for White Brothers, and has for years. He did have some sort of support program with Team Green, and like you said, with Harry Klemm, he had all the right stuff. Donnie is a hell of a nice guy, and was a great rider. He once gave a Christmas party for all the local hot 3-wheeler riders at his house. As everyone sat down in the living room with a brew and something to eat, he turned on the VCR, and showed some recent ATC race footage. Unknown to all of us, he had edited together all of the parts where he was leading races all on one tape! It was great to see Jimmy White and Stevie Wright slowly catch on to what was happening! Every race, Donnie lead out of the gate, every turn, Donnie was ahead, and what final laps were shown, guess who won? Fun night.

Curtis-Tecate3

12-13-2004, 12:05 AM

Hey Karma, Your friend that bought the bike from Donnie Luce wasnt named Stan was he? Just curious as I talked to Donnie several times in my quest for ex-factory Tecate parts and Donnie claimed that he sold his bikes to a guy named Stan Swanson.

Dean is right in that Donnie is a super nice guy to talk to on the phone, especially to a complete stranger like myself. He gladly spoke of his racing and his bike setups etc. for as long as I had questions.
Actually most of the ex-kawi racers & tuners were very friendly to talk to with a few exceptions.

Curtis.

Bad Karma

12-13-2004, 10:59 AM

No, his name was Kurt Walker. He bought the bike after a race in California. (he lived in AZ near me back then). I can't remember what race it was or the year exactly, but it must have been around 1986-87, because we were still in high school. It really was an awesome Tecate, very fast.... His father is a realtor in north Phoenix, I may run up there and see how he's doing and find out what happened to all the trikes he used to have.

350XParker

12-14-2004, 07:27 AM

Hey Dean,
It has been wonderful hearing all of your stories.
I am pretty new to the 3wheelers, and your insight has been a great learning experience.
I just picked up a 86 350X (kinda rough, but runs awesome) definately a great start for me.

Thanks for the inspiration!!!

Steve

P.S. - any chance you have stickers left? LOL :rolleyes:

shawn hoey

12-14-2004, 06:18 PM

I need a picture of a honda viper from the 80's

oldfart

12-15-2004, 12:25 AM

Steve, I do have some 3Wheeling stickers left. They are two for a buck, but please give me an addressed envelope with a stamp on it too (saves me a stamp and, well, you know). I was up in the garage rafters this past weekend, and spotted the gas tank from our old Project 250R White Ghost, as well as the one from the ATC200X that we won Baja with. I found a box full of number plates that we used during the years of 3Wheeling. All of it brings back great memories of the fun days during the eighties. You guys keep the old ATC feeling alive, every time you ride those great inventions. Dean

350XParker

12-15-2004, 04:12 AM

Thanks Dean,
I will get that right out to ya!!

Steve

Bad Karma

12-15-2004, 10:56 AM

Hey Dean, if you want to sell some of those number plates, I would be glad to buy them from you.... :D
(especially if you have a red one that fits an 85-86 250R) ;)

86250RZ

12-15-2004, 11:57 AM

I've got second dibs on those number plates ;) If you are willing to part with them please let me know.

Apollo

12-15-2004, 12:33 PM

I am all over one of those number plates also if your willing to sell. Thanks Dean for all your stories. Keep them coming!

Tyler 54

12-23-2004, 02:29 PM

LOL.. I guess I'd be interested in a number plate, if they are up for grabs.

Dean, what is your adress so I can get some of those stickers?

oldfart

02-19-2005, 10:51 PM

Well gang, I've been away too long, so here's another story from my past.... I recall one of the AATVA races at Des Moines, Iowa, where Jimmy White was there and is also his hometown. We flew out there to cover the event for 3Wheeling, and hooked up with his family and met his (now deceased) dad, Wolf. What a character!

On Friday night, a bunch of us went out to dinner somewhere, and I can tell you there was a decent amount of booze consumed that night.... Anyway, we were on our way back to the motel. I was driving your basic rental wreck, and Wolf was driving his decked out Chevy van, with Jimmy, Rhonda and more.

I came up to a traffic light and got the red. I was the first in line at the intersection, and Wolf was right behind me. As I watched the traffic go left-to-right, all of a sudden, Wolf nudges me from behind. So, I looked in my mirror and all I can see is Wolf and Jimmy smiling away.... Next thing I know, they're pushing me into the intersection! So, of course, I stood on the brakes, but to no avail. That huge Chevy is too heavy and had too much power for my weak-knee rental.

As our car was pushed into the crosswalk, our tires were squealing, the next thing I know, our front end is now past the crosswalk and going into the intersection with busy cross-traffic.

At first, we're all laughing and having a great old time, but after awhile of tire smoking, I began to wonder, how far are these crazy Whites going to go? We are now heading closer and closer into the first lane of traffic, and soon, cars are beginning to drive around us.

Just about the time, we began to flip them off, the light FINALLY changes, and we're off! It's a drag race to the motel and to avoid any other intersections! We made it in one piece.... Those days were just too much fun. Deano

Howdy

02-19-2005, 11:12 PM

Funny stories Oldfart!! Scarry at the time, but funny looking back. I also want to say A HUGE THANKS For the stickers I got yesterday. hehe ;)
Howdy

Billy Golightly

02-19-2005, 11:26 PM

LMAO I just cracked up outloud reading that. I can just imagine that going on, man thats funny.

trikerider2oo7

02-19-2005, 11:52 PM

lol dean...you got some good stories...cant wait for the next one

86250RZ

03-11-2005, 12:53 PM

Any news on those number plates Dean?

Billy Golightly

03-13-2005, 11:49 PM

Hey Dean, probably a long shot, but do you think the tank pictured here in this thread http://3wheelerworldforums.com/showthread.php?t=32587&page=1&pp=15 looks like something off of one of the HRC trikes? It looks different then a normal short track tank. Is it an old aftermarket one?

oldfart

03-14-2005, 10:30 AM

Very interesting. I can't recall seeing that one exactly, however, if you add the vents, ATC stickers, and seat assembly, maybe! It looks too nice for an aftermarket piece, such as a Maier deal. The quality is certainly there, although it looks to be a little rough on the surface, and not as smooth as I would think HRD would make. Otherwise, I would say it could be a factory-made part. If so, it would be ultra rare, since HRD crushed all of the old race ATCs..

Apollo

03-14-2005, 08:19 PM

They crushed them all? Did any slip through the cracks?

oldfart

03-14-2005, 11:42 PM

Oh, yeah..... But no 200Rs that I know of.... Too bad.

350x'inNY

03-15-2005, 12:56 AM

Ahhhhh... Dean, it's ironic that you bring up the "White Ghost" Project 250R. I just have a few 3Wheeling mags form the 82-83 years. I got my first 3 wheeler in 82. Big Red's for the farm (an 82 and an 83) Anyhow... now I have a couple 350X's and an 82R. I picked up a complete 83R motor on ebay with the complete 300R Hondaline kit....

Saw an article in the May 1984 Issue on a project 250R (2nd generation) that used the 300R kit. Anyhow, it referenced the "White Ghost" in the article. Since you found the tank, could you take a pic of it and tell us a little more about it? 200Xman here just won a bunch of '83 3wheeling mags on ebay, and Howdy here had a larger snipe than me on a lot of '82 3 Wheeling mags... maybe these guys will be able to help me out too.

Do you think the copyrights are done? hahaha. We often scan and send articles to other members here on the forums. Thaks for the great info and write-ups both past and present! :TrikesOwn

Bruce

oldfart

03-15-2005, 05:35 PM

I need to go back up in the ratters and get some of this stuff down and shoot some photos of it. In the meantime, here is a little gem that I found yesterday. It is the official artwork used by Team Honda for their jerseys, T-shirts and banners. The overlay shows the color breakdown, while the layers underneath, are the artwork for blue, red and black. I have tons more of this stuff somewhere.... I think I even have the artwork for, "Team Honda Fourtrax" as well. Enjoy. Deano

Billy Golightly

03-15-2005, 06:15 PM

Man those old Hondaline ATC Shirts are so cool. I bought a few on ebay last year but they were all in either child sizes or were adult medium, not anything I can wear. What do you think the chances are of getting permission to re-produce these in a wearable adult size? Probably slim huh?

Did Yamaha, Kawasaki, or Suzuki ever put out this kind of promotional stuff like Honda did? Only thing I've ever seen was a "Yamaha Three For all" banner that a member here on the forum has. Very cool.

chris200x

03-15-2005, 06:45 PM

I need to got back up in the ratters and get some of this stuff down and shoot some photos of it. In the meantime, here is a little gem that I found yesterday. It is the official artwork used by Team Honda for their jerseys, T-shirts and banners. The overlay shows the color breakdown, while the layers underneath, are the artwork for blue, red and black. I have tons more of this stuff somewhere.... I think I even have the artwork for, "Team Honda Fourtrax" as well. Enjoy. Deano

Man, I could spend hours apon hours lookin through all your little gems! I enjoy this thread the most. Keep em coming. :Bounce

oldfart

03-16-2005, 08:59 PM

I took some photos of some of the factory racer helmets I have laying around. These include: Mike Coe #23; Jimmy White #31; and Dean Sundahl. The Sundahl helmet is a 1975-era Bell Moto 3. I also have ones from; Tracey Dickson; Mike Hallet; Mark Weixeldorfer; and Stevie Wright. I think I still have one-half of Dickson's helmet, the one that was run over by a Class 8 truck, at the Frontier 500. Talk about major damage to the lid! Anyway, I'll take more as I go along. Dean

trikerider2oo7

03-16-2005, 10:42 PM

those helmets are awesome dean...i especially like that jimmy white one

Jeb

03-17-2005, 10:42 AM

I love the JWR one too! All 3 are awesome! I'd love to have an old JT open face. I've got an old Bell Mag3 but sadly the foam and lining is toast and the visor is long gone. :cry: I've got an old JT chest protector in Kawasaki green with the Kawasaki Logo. Also still have some old Scott Goggles and face mask, Oakley Goggles, some team Honda pants, Answer kidney belt, and a set of HP AlpineStar Boots that I still use! It's a shame it all belongs to me, because it aint worth nothing today! :p

Looking at the ATC promotional stuff sure brings back memories but at the same time it's kind of sad. Honda at one time was PROUD of the ATC lineup for years. After '87 their attitude about the ATC was "don't remind me".

Great stuff Dean, can't wait to see some more. :beer

oldfart

03-17-2005, 08:35 PM

More artwork from the early '80s.... Here is the original art that was used for Mitchell Wheels' ad featuring Mark Weixeldorfer and his Team Honda ATC 200X. This was part of a promotion for Hugh Mitchell's aluminum wheels.... before they were bought out by Douglas Wheels (but same location). Ad ran in 3Wheeling, Dirt Wheels, and was used on their T-shirts. Enjoy.

Darius1502

03-17-2005, 08:36 PM

Dean...I totally remember that ad. Nice!

Mr. Sandman

03-18-2005, 03:34 PM

Ok, check out the wheels in boxes on the floor under the Dean Sundahl helmet. It looks like Old Fart has more than a few gems around the house.

oldfart

03-18-2005, 06:00 PM

Now, now, now..... Those (hidden) spun aluminum wheels are actually 6x15-inch, for an early VW. They are from Deano Dyno-Soars, a famous VW tuner from the past (about 1971?). Those jewels are going on my '67 sedan, one of these days.

When we shut down 3Wheeling magazine/ATV Sports in 1989ish, we had a back room full of ATC/ATV stuff, that would have filled a small garage! But since we didn't want people in the industry to tell stories about us selling parts that were given to us for free, we GAVE them away to a local Orange County ATV club. It took them 4-5 pickup truck loads to get all of it. I don't even want to tell you guys what was in those loads. But, time moves on, and we wanted to put ATVs behind us.

At one time, between our back room in Costa Mesa, and all of our garages, we had over 32 ATCs and other 3wheelers on loan from the manufacters. But, we still all wanted to use the same three bikes; (ATC 250R, ATC 200X and ATC 350R!). Dean

Darius1502

03-18-2005, 06:10 PM

You know that you are killing us with these juicy tidbits....

...and hey...what about the Tri Z!

oldfart

03-18-2005, 07:35 PM

Ya' know, I really like the Tri-Z and I recall taking it to the dunes with Dickson and Steve Wright many, many times. I think that's where Brett Driscoll got hooked on them, riding that first preproduction unit we had before anyone else. I think I really liked the way the gas tank and upper cowl was formed so you could move around side-to-side or back and forth, without going over a big gas tank "hump". It was a very comfortable ATV to ride. So there.....

chris200x

03-18-2005, 07:54 PM

Looks to me like its a good thing that fella was wearin that helmet at the time...Looks to have a little scuff mark on the side there.

mad_max

03-22-2005, 12:21 AM

Dean,

Just a thought. Would it be possible/feasible to publish a magazine that featured old 3wheeler articles? I know theres a bunch of people out there that would probably freak because they never saw this stuff in it's heyday.
Remember "Petersons Three Wheeler" mag. I think it was published quarterly.
The only problem I see is that advertising might be hard to come by... but hell what do I know I've never published anything.

oldfart

03-23-2005, 11:56 AM

I'll tell you, today's printing and shipping prices would scare you to death. The idea is great, but the cost would choke a horse. I'm affraid that even though we still have all the page negatives, and flats for all the issues of 3Wheeling/ATV Sports, they will probably will never be used again. Sad but true. Dean

Curtis-Tecate3

03-23-2005, 04:05 PM

Dean, I don't know if you have already addressed this but what are the legalities and repercussions, if any, of scanning and posting articles etc. from your old magazines. Someone, like me for example, that has nearly every issue of 3Wheeling/ATV Sports since it was a quarterly publication could possibly make a major contribution to this website..??

Just curious.

By the way I see people on EBAY selling scanned and printed magazine articles.

Regards,

Curtis.

oldfart

03-24-2005, 11:04 AM

The idea of scanning and reproducing a printed article is not legal, and not fair to those who originally did all the hard work. I think when you charge money for this "service" you cross the line. Selling reprints of past articles on E-Bay would piss me off, to say the least! While I am not in a position to give permission to reprint anything that Wright Publishing did over the years, even if it is for entertainment purposes and not for profit, I/we can't be everywhere at all times to police it. Just use your better judgment.

Curtis-Tecate3

03-24-2005, 12:49 PM

Dean,
Please don't misunderstand me. I have never done anything with my collection other than enjoy it. I have however recently seen on ebay people selling b&w printouts of scanned magazine articles. I do not remember whose publication it was but it was not 3wheeling. I agree that selling such material would not be ethical and possibly illegal unless they obtained permission.

My main idea was to contribute articles to this site but the more I think about it the more I agree with you.

Thanks for the input and thanks for all of the memories on your previous posts.

Curtis.

HondaHarry

03-29-2005, 01:49 PM

Dean, the mention of your DDS wheels in an above message, reminded me to ask if you are going to be in Fontana or Phoenix next month to cover the VW shows? I am planning to go to Fontana, but dont know yet so I figured I would see where you would be so I could meet up and say hi if able... I always ask Cormack what you are up to when I see him. Last time I ran into you was a while ago (Berg Cruise in Denver '01) so you may not remember me. thanks. HH

oldfart

04-06-2005, 06:47 PM

Honda-Harry, you guys are confusing me to death! Let's see, are we talking about ATCs, or VWs, or Anglias? Yikes. Okay, I just got back from a ten day road trip to Texas and back... about 3800 miles towing a VW. No rain, plenty of wind, and gas prices went from a low of $1.89 in McAllen, Texas, to $2.59 in Wilcox, Arizona. Saw plenty of ATCs all over Texas.

I will be covering the Bug-In event in Fontana on April 10. Dave Cormack is doing the Phoenix Bug-O-Rama on the 16th. If you're there, come up and and we'll talk... Hondas, VWs, or Ford Anglias. Deano

Apollo

04-07-2005, 12:15 AM

Yes, the ATC is alive and well in Texas. These gas prices do suck. That is a long trip going through west Texas and I do not miss it.

Captainuno

05-07-2005, 09:52 PM

Hiya Dean,

Way back in the day I used to hang with all the boys back in the old D38 desert racing days, Dricoll, Sundahl, Corda, Coe, Dickson and many more. I was there the day they did the article on the Tiger 500, Craig Corda was the rider and a very good freind of mine. He & I teamed in a Bikes with Trikes desert team race that Fud put on. I was the #1 125 expert at the time riding a Cagiva, he was on the Tiger, we ended up 2nd overall out of 126 teams, the guy was majic on that monster.
Craig is still farming in the Imperial Valley, but still rides his XR650 out in the desert for fun, I am Vice President of the newly revived AMA D38. We are back putting on desert racing, Corda has helped me pound stakes and tie ribbon in our last 2 races.
Mike Coe graced us with his presents at our last race placing 2nd Quad Expert, goes to show you he still has the talent. Dean Sundalh has been down here a few times himself, still fast as ever on his hand made framed Yamaha Banchee.
Just thought I'd bring back a Blast from the Past.

Kirk Hester
President of Roadrunners Off Road Racing Club
Vice President of AMA District 38

oldfart

05-08-2005, 01:41 PM

Kirk, great to hear from you. I had so many awesome weekends in the El Centro area. The mud hills, the dunes, and some of the best Mexican food around. I can't say enough good things about the Driscolls. We often would head to the valley on Friday afternoon, flop on Mike's couch for the night, go to SunBeam lake on Jet Skies, and on and on. Sure miss Otis Fudpucker, he was the king of D-38. Dean

oldfart

05-17-2005, 09:37 PM

The year was, I can't recall, but Jimmy White was riding for Kawaski, and we were all in town for the big event at Santa Cruz, Calfornia. Jimmy by that time, had a full time contract and was making over 100K a year..... Daryl Bassani was still his engine builder, so the Super Crew was still all together, and giving Wes McCoy fits! By this time, rental car companies had Jimmy's name on their no-rent list, so, they used Dave Jordan's rental, who was a big-wig for Kawasaki at the time (basically, JW's boss). So, here we are, riding in Dave Jordan's rental, Bassani was driving, JW and Rhonda were all in the front seat, and Orchard and myself we in the back..... During the course of the weekend, we drove to and from the race track, back to the Holiday Inn in Seaside a million time.

On Friday afternoon, Team Honda was setup in the Holiday Inn parking lot, working on the trikes, and getting things ready to move to the track the following morning. Now, Wes McCoy was as about as high-strung as you could get, and everytime JW and Daryl were around, Wes freaked. Honda had some serious competition then, and Wes had a lot of pressure to win the 250 class.

So, here we were driving down Highway One south, going back to the motel. Daryl is driving about 110mph, weaving back and forth in traffic, and at one time, slammed the car into first gear. Smoking was pouring out of the wheel wells as if someone lite the car on fire. Cars were scattering all over the place and no one wanted to play with Bassani. At one time, as we exited the off-ramp rather rapidly, the car got airborned. Luckily for Bassani, Dave Jordan had rented a car with a center-pull e-brake handle, which he often used to set the suspension up for the next radical full-thorttle turn. I recall one time, we were back on the freeway, and he set the e-brake at 60mph, and locked up the rear tires. Smoke was pouring out the backend. It was great.

Now, going back to the motel after dinner and few adult beverages, we hit the off ramp at speed, then wheeled around the frontage street and aimed towards the Holiday Inn parking lot entrance. With a loud crash, the front end bottomed out on the dip, and we charged into the Honda pits sideways. A perfect 3-point slide. Wes McCoy had a heartattack.

By the end of the weekend, Dave Jordan's rental was "thumping" down the road with square tires and a whining transmission. Brakes? None left, thank you very much. Bassani was a master of the rental car.

Sorry I have been away too long, enjoy!

trikerider2oo7

05-17-2005, 10:19 PM

lmao dean...thats pretty funny. did he get insurance put on the car? i hope so lol

Billy Golightly

05-18-2005, 04:21 PM

Hey Dean, back when you guys changed over to ATV Sports, Bruce Simurda did an article on a Laegers conversion kit for the mid 80s CR500s to turn them into trikes (March 88 I believe it was). Were you by any chance there when Bruce rode/wrote the article on the conversion? I recently bought one of these old kits on ebay but I'm running into a couple problems...

My seat, to gas tank gap is about 2.5 inches if I mount up the seat pivot to the subframe and use the bolt holes already provided in the pivot.. Do you happen to have any recollection if Mark or someone at Laegers changed the way the subframes mounted up while they were making the kits? Mine is clearly different then whats shown in that article. Trying desperately to get it done in time for Trikefest. Thanks in advance.

oldfart

05-18-2005, 04:29 PM

I sure couldn't tell you... I didn't ride that conversion (at that time), and I'm sure that these conversions went through a number of design changes, and ours was a very early model. Sorry.

Billy Golightly

05-18-2005, 04:31 PM

No problem, I figured it was a long shot but I appreciate it anyways.

mad_max

05-18-2005, 06:54 PM

Dean,

Great story about Wes McCoy!

When a rider was sponsored by Honda how much help did they actually get?
I heard they were more or less on there own as far as mechanics were concerned.... I assume the parts were covered by Honda?

oldfart

05-19-2005, 12:52 AM

Depends on the deal and the individual rider. Guys like Marty Hart, Stevie Wright, and Mike Coe got the red carpet treatment; salary, bonus, expenses, full-time mechanic, box van, etc. Others, like Mark Weixeldorfer, Dean Sundahl and Tracey Dickson got ATCs, spares, box vans to use, travel money and bonus cash. Still others just got free parts, tires, wheels. And some got only a hardy handshake. That's the difference from a factory rider, a support rider, and just someone that knows someone that worked at a dealership. Hart made BIG money.

There were racing deals, TV commerical deals, apparel contracts, testing deals, Honda dealer and support tours with personal appearances, and so on.

Tracey Dickson and mechanic Chuck Miller made a lot of money riding the new Hondas in commericals, in the dunes, woods and where ever. These were seen on TV, as well as the dealer meetings and new model intros. We didn't pay riders to do photo sessions with the magazine, although I bought a lot of steak dinners, carne asada BBQs and beer!

Tim Orchard did a lot of testing on the Pilot for Honda R&D. They paid him for his time in the seat. Tim told me that they strapped a bunch of technical recorders to his chest and he was instructed to drive around the same course, over the over again, at exactly the same speed and rate. They would make changes to the shocks and suspension, and compare the data from one lap to the next. Tim got bored at one point, and started to throw the Pilot around a bit, and hit a few jumps hard to get some air... the Japanese tech-o-guys didn't like that one bit! At one point, one of the head duds came up to him at the pit stop, grabbed the chin guard of his Moto 4 helmet, and told him, "Don't F-up my equipment!"

Since we did a lot of our testing mid-week, we would often catch the factory guys testing some protype 3wheeler out in the sticks somewhere. I remember one day we got out to El Mirage Dry Lake about 8:00 a.m. for some photos before it got too hot to ride. And there was a Suzuki box van out in the middle of no-where. Hmmmm. So, we cruised by and once these guys saw who we were, the test units were quickly covered up, and shoved back into the van. I sure loved to screw with those guys. Their ass was on the line if photos appeared in 3Wheeling! Miss that stuff.

Fox250R

05-19-2005, 01:33 AM

Dean,
I was wondering where all those factory 250Rs we saw in the mag are today? Do the riders still have them stored away somewhere in their garages? Did honda take them back and sell them again? Did they just part them out? Or are some of these bikes just sitting in some field somewhere rusting......I've always wondered this...Anyway thanks for your time! :)

oldfart

05-19-2005, 10:32 AM

Well, you want the official story, the one that Wes McCoy sleeps well at night with, or the real one? (hmm, there seems to be a deleted message from above).

ScottZJ

05-19-2005, 10:40 AM

Oh it doesnt matter, they both sound like they would be a very interesting story.

ATCnut

05-19-2005, 09:50 PM

I want the real story, even if it will make me cry.

wizzard

05-19-2005, 10:26 PM

mad_max

05-19-2005, 11:19 PM

Well, you want the official story, the one that Wes McCoy sleeps well at night with, or the real one?

You have to be one of the luckiest guys ever! You got to LIVE this stuff up close and personal. You oughta write a book!

oldfart

05-20-2005, 12:38 AM

More later on guys, I am leaving on a ten day trip to Michigan, Washington D.C. and Virginia... back on the 31 of May. Think 3!

86250RZ

05-20-2005, 04:36 PM

[
QUOTE=wizzard]that was popular conversion here around new orleans. I even remember the article in the magazine.[/QUOTE]

Yep! Up here in N. Louisiana also. I had one back in 1986. The only difference was mine had a 185 S lowend and a 200X topend. They claimed it made the 200X faster trough the gears, therefor they they were better suited for the short mx tracks that were popular in this area.

milners36

06-09-2005, 02:37 AM

What an awesome thread! I just dug out my old issues and will list the ones I have. Unfortunately, I wasn't a subscriber so I don't have them all but between the two mags, I know I have the tests of all the 250r's(except the 87 :cry: )as well as the tri-z and all the Tecates and many smaller bikes. I've owned an 82 and an 85 250r and two 85 Tri-z's in the past but have never actually ridden a Tecate. Anyway, it's great to "meet" someone like Dean who was there! :cool:

oldfart

06-14-2005, 12:29 PM

Mike Coe had an nickname that we used (behind his back of course)..... It was "E B". Can anyone tell me what those two letters stand for?

Red Rider

06-14-2005, 04:05 PM

I don't know if Mike Coe endoed a lot, but "EB" could stand for "Endo Boy". This is just a guess though.

magiscotty

06-14-2005, 05:22 PM

:Bounce :Bounce
Hello, for those of you that are old enough, you might remember a publication entitled 3Wheeling Magazine, published by Wright Publishing Co, of Costa Mesa, CA. This magazine started in March 1980 with its first issue devoted to the ATC/3-wheeler market. At the time, I was the Associate Publisher/Advertising Director and co-creater of this idea (with Tom Chambers). We actually started covering the ATC market in issues of Hot VWs Magazine, back as far as 1976. We even covered ATC90 flat-track racing in the San Diego area during the late '70s.

My first "ATV" was a 1975 Honda US90, with steel front fender, and folding fork assembly. My last ATV was an ATC350X.

Up to about 1988, I can safely say that I rode nearly every production ATV that was produced up to that time, and many prototypes that never were built for production. I rode the Honda ATC200R, Honda ATC450R and many other "secret" projects. The 1987 ATC250R with white plastic? Yup, that one too.

Since the last issue of 3Wheeling/ATV Sports was published, I have not been on an ATV.... After spending the majority of my time riding, testing, building and loving 3- and 4-wheelers (nearly ten solid years), and seeing the ATV industry turn upside down by some legal morons, I could no longer enjoy my sport.

I got rid of all of my spare parts, riding apparel, ATVs and so on, in the late '80s. The only treasure I still hold on to, is my collection of factory rider helmets. This includes helmets worn by Dean Sundahl, Stevie Wright, Tracey Dickson, Mike Hallet, Mark Wiexeldorfer, Jimmy White and Mike Coe. I only wish I had one from Bob "Ace" Williams...

That is for now. I just thought some of you might like to hear from someone that was there in the beginning... before the CPSC, and lawsuit city. Sincerely, Dean Kirsten

magiscotty

06-14-2005, 05:29 PM

Hi
Three wheelers forever.
I am new to the site and was wondering if you dont ride because of the ban on new three wheeler sales. I orginally owned a 1979 Honda atc 90. That trike would go anywhere I could find. Wish I still owned it. I now own a 1983 Honda atc 200 big red. I just purchased this trike about 5 months ago. I have noticed a lot of back fire. I believe it may be muffler related or carb. Losing compression from the exhaust pipe. Anyways I enjoyed reading your post.

oldfart

06-14-2005, 10:24 PM

No, the Mike Coe nickname is a little more "personal"...

yater

06-14-2005, 10:49 PM

elephant balls

oldfart

06-15-2005, 01:18 AM

Ah, that's a good one, but not correct.

200xadam

06-15-2005, 01:14 PM

One of the coolest conversions we ever did was to install a 200S engine/tranny into an ATC200X frame. What we ended up building was a one-off, 200X Automatic! We still used a rope starter from the 200S, and had to make a new brake lever. The top mount was a mismatch from the 200X and 200S. It was super easy to ride, and freaked a lot of people out. Even Honda asked to ride that one.....

that was popular conversion here around new orleans. I even remember the article in the magazine.

thats how my 200x originated, my friend made his own conversion..took some welding and cutting of the cdi and coil brackets and a custom break pedal was welded to the triangular piece that connects behind the footpeg, but it was an awesome trail bike...but ive put the original x motor back in to get some more speed...

oldfart

06-17-2005, 12:21 PM

Okay, I guess the Mike Coe nickname was a little too tough to know about... So, here is the answer. Mike is a tad bit on the hairy side, I mean he could/should shave his beard twice a day! Stevie Wright came up with "EB" which refers to his "eye brows" going across the bridge of his nose. In order words, he has ONE eye brow!

Dan Tenn

06-17-2005, 02:45 PM

Ahh, the unibrow

oldfart

06-21-2005, 10:12 PM

Okay, since my last story about Mike Coe wasn't exactly the most flattering... here's another gem. Honda came out with a three-wheeler scooter called the Gyro. The first version was your basic Honda red, and we got one from the Honda loan pool, and liked it so much, we bought it outright. In fact, Tim Orchard still owns it today. Anyway, the Gyro, or G-Ro as we called it, was popular as a pit bike, and everyone got a chance to mess with it. As you may recall, it would articulate in the middle, so both rear tires would remain on the ground flat, during a turn. Very cool engineering, but a little tricky to do much in the dirt with. Try as everyone might, no one could do a wheelie with it, as it would always bend in the middle, and the front end would go one way or the other... and never straight. Except for Mike "EB" Coe! This guy could wheelie anything on wheels, including the G-Ro. Amazing balance. Even Stevie Wright could not wheelie that scooter.

oldfart

06-23-2005, 06:01 PM

I was thinking about how hard Dean Sundahl rode ATCs, and I began to recall one off-road race that we were shooting photos of the 3-wheeler class. Now at the SCORE Parker 400 (Parker, Arizona), the ATCs would run only on the California loop, unlike the cars, that would do loops on both CA and AZ sides of the Colorado River. This one February morning, all of the ATCs riders came by us at this one point, so you really got a good idea of the different riding styles and who was going to it! The area was a low sand wash, but the course took the riders down the wash at speed, then made a sharp turn up the enbankment, and across a rise to a hard flat area. Most riders picked their way through this tricky spot, and some, downright idled their way across the crest of this wash. But not Dean! We heard this 300cc kit just buzzing down the wash, and we knew it was an "open" bike class. Sure enough, Dean hit the bank of this wash flat out, the when he got to the top, he jerked the front end sideways, and pitched the backend around. When we took the photo, he was totally sideways, engine on high-C, and the rear tires were spinning so fast that they looked like a Top Fuel slick during a burnout! He was flat flying at this point, but never missed beat, or lost any control. Of all the ATC riders that came by us that day, NO ONE hit that spot that hard, or that fast, then Dean Sundahl. My hero.

MO350X

06-23-2005, 09:45 PM

Funny how so many folks have like-interests....
I'm a true-blue VW junky ('66 Cal-Looker Beetle, '65 Manx copy) AND a trike addict.

Hey Dean,
It was a true honor to finally chat with you at Competition Engineering in Phoenix before the Bug-O-Rama a few years ago.
You described the finer points of Christensen's EARLY ('49?) Beetle to me.
I was at Frenchy's in 2004-THAT was an experience I'll NEVER forget! :w00t:
My wife and I fly down there for the big VW show from St. Louis.
Awesome event.
You also snapped a pic of our Beetle (blue Cal-Looker, polished Empi's) at the Mid-America Motorworks show and posted my car in the magazine!
I remember the exact moment you took that picture.
When I saw it in the magazine, I almost had a heart attack. :Bounce

You have NO idea how much I enjoy reading your posts on here about "back in the day".
I remember reading those old 3 wheeling magazines like it was yesterday.
And dreaming of what goody I'd buy next or what new trike I wanted to replace the trike I had at the time-the good old 200S.
Ahh....simpler times.

Sorry to ramble. :p
Thanks for the memories and stories.
Looking forward to seeing you in Phoenix again HOPEFULLY 2006.
Best Regards,
Bill

oldfart

06-27-2005, 10:36 AM

We just topped 30,000 hits on this thread.... amazing. Dean

Billy Golightly

06-27-2005, 11:04 AM

Hey Dean, I just posted some pictures that were sent to me by Rodney Shedenhelm. If you go to the main page, www.3wheelerworld.com I've got a link to them. They are from the first time Dean Sundahl raced a 250R on a closed course. :cool: Thought you might enjoy that.

oldfart

06-27-2005, 06:56 PM

I remember that day! The big buzz around San Diego was that Honda was going to bring out the 250R! These two ATCs were all early/pre-production units, and #2 is the one that Darryl Bassani now has. These still had stock pipes, stock rear axles, but at least had Carlisle rear tires and Mitchell wheels. #32 on the Tri-Moto is Bob "Ace" Williams, the #43 Honda is Curtis Sparks, and behind Ace on the top of the hill is Tracey Dickson. Notice all the Levis pants and some tennis shoes. My back is in one shot (with the yellow T-shirt and blue cap). Speedway 117 was where is all started!

250rAL

06-28-2005, 09:35 AM

esande151

06-29-2005, 07:11 PM

Dean, In '85 I started racing my uncles new '85 250R. Racing every weekend, we enjoyed alot of early success which took us outside our local tracks. We had the privlidge of racing with Marty Hart, Carey Jones, Tim McQuaig, Jimmy White, and Rodney Gentry. Back then there were races at Daytona International Speedwqay on Mondays before the supercross on Saturdays. Our best finish with the pro's came there. My uncle still talks about that to just about any one who will listen. I would like to try and find the magazine that cotained this race coverage to give to him to put on display. The article is started with a shot of the first corner off the line in the second moto with me ( # 25 ) right next to Rodney Gentry ( # 6 or # 1 ). The problem is I can't remeber which mag it's in, but I beleive it's either '85 or '86. The races were held in March. Any help with this would be greatly appreciated.

Thank you,

Elliot

oldfart

06-30-2005, 11:14 AM

Elliot, hmmm. We covered so few races in that area, other than the AATVA race in Miami. You're going to have to give me a little more information about that particular race, so I can look through the back issues. I suspect that it was freelanced for us, so no telling who took the photos. I'll see what I can find... Are you sure it was 3Wheeling magazine that covered that race? Dean

esande151

06-30-2005, 11:17 PM

Dean, The races were held in early March at the Daytona Supercross track. I think the coverage article appeared in the April or May issue, either '86 or '87. It was a full two page photo of the first turn. It was Rodney's last season on an ATC before switching to the TRX. I wish I had more. I'll try to pick my uncles brain a liitle. Thank you, Elliot

fortyeye

07-04-2005, 11:04 AM

Dean,
After lurking on this site and reading your thread, the recent posting of the pics from “Speedway 117” compelled me to write. I had the privilege of racing during this era. Started with the first year Honda Elsinore 125 at, what was then called, South Bay Speedway. We would practice in the hills on the north side of what would become 905 all weekend long and race on Wednesday nights. Back then Marty Smith was still in school at Point Loma (with a Factory Honda Support contract). He and Tommy Croft were riding 250’s at the big races and Marty would show up at South Bay on Wednesdays for pocket change in the 125 class. Over the next 10 years or so I got to ride and race with all 3 Martys. Smith at South Bay, Tripes at Santee (San Diego River sand pits), and Moates at Carlsbad.

In ‘81/’82 I sold my house, packed my belongings, took a leave from work, and tried my hand at self employment. Went in with some distant relatives in Ennis, Texas. We owned several businesses including a Kawasaki shop. Our practice track was located on the land that became the Texas Motorplex racing complex. I had attended the Riverside race in previous years and had heard that the next edition would include a 3wheeler class. We went to work fabbing an open class (Kaw 420 engine-new crate motor from the factory) to race at Riverside. Rumor had it that Ace would be riding an open class Honda and we were determined to compete. I had raced with Ace once at the Cajon Speedway infield course (he was on a Tri-Yamaha at the time). My inflated sense of invincibility had everyone convinced that we could be “in the hunt”. Well … reversals of fortune (the shop took a severe monetary dive) relegated the dream of racing against Factory Honda at Riverside moot. I escaped from Texas with the clothes on my back and a freshly assembled (by me from the crate) Eddie Lawson Replica 1000. Upon returning to San Diego, I took the Lawson bike to Alba (at that time in Encinitas) and traded it straight up for a race ready ATC250R. I re-started racing back at “Speedway 117” and got to race with Dean and Wax on a semi-regular basis.

The whole point of this post was not to drop names. During that span of years it wasn’t uncommon to line up along side Broc Glover or Rick Johnson at the gate or Mitch Mayes out in the Mojave. Back in the mid 70’s, a group of co-workers would go to the 24th st. tidal flats in National City and end up using our ATC90’s as tow mules for Larry Williams and Don Pauter’s sand dragster.

The gift of living in So. Cal., specifically in San Diego County, and being involved in the off-road scene can only be appreciated in retrospect. During the last 5 years I’ve been gradually rebuilding my love of the hobby. Resurrecting a ’67 Bug, introducing my son to the desert, and rebuilding/play riding my pride and joy … an ’86 ATC350X.

The glory days have come and gone. Riding in the outback in San Diego County is virtually unknown today. The Ocotillo and Glamis areas are so crowded now. But the fire still smolders within. Off-roading is a life long passion. Working on buggies, bikes, and 3wheelers will always hold a part of me captive. As it should!

nouseforaname90

07-05-2005, 02:19 PM

Wow.. long thread.. very informative and there are good stories in it too.

Got any more stickers left, Dean? Or do you have anything for a 250SX layin around your house anywhere for sale? -wink-

oldfart

07-06-2005, 04:33 AM

Yep, still got stickers somewhere in the rafters. Same deal as always. No spare parts for the SX deal, sorry. The unlimited class for 3-wheelers always brought out some interesting/strange bikes. Some downright spooky. I think the two most popular, the Mugen setup, and 300cc Hondaline kits were good for the sport and tons of fun to ride. The CR-powered ATCs seemed to be a tough entry to ride, due to the high-rpm band, and lack of counterbalancer. They sure broke a lot of frames with that setup. Good to hear from another rider from that era. Thanks for the memories.

esande151

07-09-2005, 03:00 PM

hey dean, I'm walking out the door headed to Disney Wide World of Sports in Orlando there is an ATV race there tonight. Doug Gust, John Natalie, Jeremiah, Bill Balance, Joe Byrd, and others, about 20 pro riders, to qualify for 16 rider main.
Marty Hart and Rodney Gentry are supposed to be there(Marty is competing in terracross). This is supposed to be televised July 15th & 16th on espn with a special review segment to air July 16th on ABC's Wide World of Sports.

Eliot

esande151

07-12-2005, 12:01 AM

Well Natalie won the MX, but more important, Marty won the terracross. Did'nt see Rodney around, however he did place 2nd in the 30+ class at the national event at GATORBACK.
Elliot

chris200x

08-21-2005, 12:31 AM

Someone posted a pic of this trike out of 3 wheeling magizine this week and I was hoping maybe you know of it or can say something about it. Circa 1981

oldfart

08-21-2005, 01:18 PM

That cool photo was taken at the Baja de, Saddleback Park (now gone), is of Bob Ace Williams (notice the #32), riding one of the early 3B Lightning Tri-Moto/YZ conversions. Notice the large rear tires as well. Ace was riding this trike, just before he began working on the open entry for the Off Road Championships at Riverside. I believe that image was taken from one of 3B Lightning ads from an old issue of 3Wheeling Magazine. 3B was a company created by Broc Glover, and Billy Talley and Bob Williams were partners.

firefirefire90

08-21-2005, 04:56 PM

Hey Dean, I sent you a letter a while ago with money for some 3wheeler stuff? Did you recieve it? My name is Nick Childs if you need it.

oldfart

08-21-2005, 06:06 PM

Thanks for reminder. Yes, I will get it out tomorrow... I had forgotten about it, opps.

firefirefire90

08-21-2005, 06:12 PM

Haha, no biggy. I am so glad that people like you have "come out of the closet" with these things. You really help people like me and my buddys get back into riding. Can't for my surprise in the mail this week. So do you think you could help me with anything on a racing 200x trike?

performula

08-21-2005, 08:38 PM

Great thread. I read the whole thing.

85atc500r

08-22-2005, 12:00 AM

Hey Dean, I'am another one from san diego county up in the fallbrook area, we have a whole group that has been riding atc for about the last 20 years, I remember alot of the names that are coming up, good to hear from you, I just put my 1985 atc cr500 up for sale here, it was built in 1986 with a 85 atc250r and 85 cr500 motor, up here there was three guys who built these together and ran glamis for alot of years, I bought one of them about two years ago, ran it last season at glamis and anza, the most wickedly fast bike I ever have rode, but I'am just too old for this kind of bike now, I just ride softly now on my 86atc250r mint condition fox motor etc. any way keep up the posts, see you later.

firefirefire90

08-22-2005, 12:16 AM

Wow, you all should come over to 3wheeler.org also, San Diego/CA is a very big chunk over there. You all should join us for the glamis thanksgiving ride. I know it would be very cool to make it an annual event for both sites. You should come to Dean, im sure someone would lend you a bike. :beer

performula

08-22-2005, 06:03 PM

I cannot believe Mugen made kits for ATCs, that is amazing! I am sure they were very expensive because their aftermarket parts are very pricey.

When did you hear or know about the ATC Ban - for example: was it a slow progression since 1980 or was the word out quickly in 1985?

Do you predict 3 Wheelers in our future or a forbidden fruit that a manufacturer will not touch?

oldfart

08-22-2005, 11:48 PM

The late Al Baker (Hesperia, CA) was the imported of Mugen motorcycle/ATC kits for southern California or greater.... I believe they were about $400ish, for the cylinder and piston, carb, etc. A little pipey for my blood. Brett Driscoll sure loved them, as did Corda.

I don't recall about when I began to take notice about the CPSC deal. Like so many things, it starts out slow, and begins to build up. I never bought into the accident-portion of the report, since motorcycle, and even toaster ovens had more numbers than 3Wheelers. I believe it was about import duties, and if the major 3Wheeler manufacturers were United States- based, it would have never been an issue. That is why, Honda and the rest, began to build units here in the States, to quiet the rumblings about too many imports. That's my 2 cents worth.

These were tough times to be in the business. Yes, the dealers were making money hand over fist, but the manufactuers, were taking a beating in the courts. Try as they might, to get the dealers to sell "by the book", the dealers gave the public what they wanted. And later, in many cases, paid dearly for it.

Let's go duning, and forget all this CPSC crapola!

firefirefire90

08-23-2005, 12:08 AM

You are welcome to join us all from CA at Olanchia dunes(30 min north of bakersfield) on memorial day weekend. Just talk to people on www.3wheeler.org
Also we are riding Thanksgiving Week at Glamis! Join us. Man i wish i had a Mugen kit for my 200x :naughty: :drool: :drool: :drool:

performula

08-23-2005, 12:09 AM

Thank you.

oldfart

08-23-2005, 09:56 AM

Mugen only made a kit for the 250R Honda. No four-stroke kits to my knowledge. Thanks for the offer of riding on Memorial Day weekend, but, in the Volkswagen world (which I now exist in), that is the single biggest weekend of the year for events! I usually work either in Manassas, Virginia or, Sacramento, California. No time to dune. And Thanksgiving... well, after doing this weekend for over 20 years in the dunes, I now, rather stay home and eat turkey. Maybe some other weekend that I don't have to work. I still have all my Hondaline ATC riding gear (or Tim Orchard has it all somewhere), and my now ancient Tory Lee helmet.

firefirefire90

08-23-2005, 11:44 AM

whenever dude
:beer

firefirefire90

08-23-2005, 10:00 PM

Hey Dean,

Thank you for the stickers. They're plain but AWESOME :w00t: :Bounce :naughty: . I also like the 'crisp' five dollar bill :naughty: . Dont ever forget, :TrikesOwn

performula

08-26-2005, 09:29 PM

The name was sold not the templates/negatives, correct? ATVSport is the name now?

crackshot

08-27-2005, 12:05 PM

oldfart

08-30-2005, 01:19 AM

Still have a few stickers left... No on the ATV Sport deal. They bought nothing from us. We owned the copy right on ATV Sports, so, they just dropped the "S" and started fresh from ground zero. Wright Publishing still maintains all the old files from 3Wheeling and ATV Sports. That, my friends, is one huge piece of ATV history!

firefirefire90

09-02-2005, 12:49 AM

hey dean, you have any number plates i could buy of ya?

oldfart

09-02-2005, 11:05 AM

If I decide to sell my number plate collection, I would have to sell all of them at once... But I am not there yet. Sorry.

CoeShow

09-03-2005, 08:05 PM

Hey Dean,

I see by this thread you have been keeping busy! Me too. My daughter's turned me onto this site. They copied and sent pictures asking, "Dad, is this you?"

Sam still hs is original 1981 that I raced back in the day. It has one of the factory water-cooled conversion top ends installed. He says it still runs great! Just hasn't ridden it in about a dozen years or so!

I am still in search of any form of race results( AMA Nationals) from the 1985 season. Any data there would be greatly appreciated.

Still toying with Anglia's ?? My classic Ford's are still a hobby, but I have been working on hopping up the Honda CRF150 and 230 trail bikes. Ever since my youngest child turned 5 (he's 9 now) I have started to ride regularly again but on motorcycles. I have no real interest in quads. I always liked 3 wheelers much better than any of the quads I raced or rode for pleasure.

I still have a couple of the short course tank conversions for an 85-86 model and plan to build one up like when I raced for Honda.

I did meet and ride for a weekend with Donny Luce! My brother, Donny and I all met at Gorman and had a blast riding in the Los Padres National Forest.

We tried to get Jimmy and Curtis to come along, but business obligations kept them away.

I hope to read more of your stuff and I'm certain that these kind folks here on this site do as well. Bassanis broad slide into our little camp at the races back then did rile McCoy!! You know it didn't take much to get him going.

Well, I'll read ya soon.

Mike

P.S. E.B. huh?? Nice. You know thats funny because Stevie's, Marty's, and my wife at the time were all enrolled in that Deloux beauty school. Holly "personally" waxed my "mono- brow". I'm surprised you didn't tag me M-B! I think it bothered her (Holly) more than anyone. She was always making comments about it and then Stevie and Tracy would chime in. Just so every one know's, I have two brows now. No more Eddie Munster look! ..... Have ever since she worked me over 20+ years ago!!

Billy Golightly

09-03-2005, 10:03 PM

Mike Coe! Awesome to have you here on the forum, welcome. Good to hear that your still riding and even have an interest in building another 250R. We gotta get you and Dean over here for trikefest next year. Anyways, looking forward to reading your posts and your experience as a racer here on 3WW.

Billy

oldfart

09-03-2005, 10:19 PM

Well, guys, there you have it... And you thought I made this stuff up! Mike is the only ATC rider I know (from back then), than can still get into his original riding clothes. "EB" or "MB" Mike, is/was one of the best 3Wheeler riders of all time. Mike, hope to see you around at the swap meets! Dean

Yamahauler

09-09-2005, 08:14 PM

Hey Dean,
I sent you a few bucks for some 3 wheeling stickers. I am just starting to read this thread, 24 pages left.

chris200x

09-09-2005, 10:14 PM

Boy this just keeps getting better! :Bounce

:welcome: Welcome to the boards mike! I look forward to hearing some of the stories from back in the day!

mad_max

09-10-2005, 12:15 AM

I am still in search of any form of race results( AMA Nationals) from the 1985 season. Any data there would be greatly appreciated.

Mike,

This site might be worth checking:

http://www.motorcyclememories.com

BTW, notice the guy on the left?

CoeShow

09-11-2005, 12:14 AM

Mad Max,

How did you come across that old publicity shot ?? I looked at the site you mention but unfortunately he has very little there for that time frame.

chris200x

09-11-2005, 10:57 AM

Mr. Coe, may I make a suggestion. I think it would be cool if you started a new thread to introduce yourself, tell some stories, and post some pics. :D It's really cool to have you and Dean on this site! Hope I'm not being to forward but I know I can speak for alot of people when I say your a legend around here! :beer

mad_max

09-12-2005, 09:33 PM

Mad Max,

How did you come across that old publicity shot ?? I looked at the site you mention but unfortunately he has very little there for that time frame.

Sorry to hear that he didnt have what you are looking for. :(

I found that photo on the internet a couple of years ago. Unfortunately I cant recall where it came from. If I run across anything else I'll let you know.

We'd love to hear any stories you might have from back in the day. :beer

Thanks

Billy Golightly

09-12-2005, 09:52 PM

Member mymint87 from the forum here is good friends with Tommy Gaian and has posted some stuff like that before. Might be where it came from.

Old 179

09-12-2005, 09:53 PM

DirtWheels, 3Wheeler, and ATV News. I can almost count on one hand the issues missing (80-87). Can I help?

CoeShow

09-15-2005, 12:11 AM

Old 179,

I am looking to find the race results for the AMA nationals of the 1985 season. The results more than likely would be in ATV news and/or 3 wheeling magazine a month or so behind the actual race date.

The first race of the 1985 season was held in the Tacoma Dome which I won. The final race was the San Jose race which Marty Hart won. Any help would be appreciated!

CoeShow

09-15-2005, 12:14 AM

I am going to say a little hello on a new thread as asked in a previous post. Hopefully I can stumble my way through this site and write something legible.

Mike

RichinMO

09-15-2005, 05:55 PM

Mike, I have to say it's freaking awesome that you are here, glad you found the site. I went through some of my 3wheeling mags and found Tacoma. 3W only listed the top 5 finishers. I don't have a scanner so I took a pic of the results page. I have all the mags that would cover that season, just have to find the results.

Old 179

09-15-2005, 08:40 PM

Mike,
I'll have my son help over weekend, I'll pull the ATV News results. I like that paper because of us "local" racers could get our names in a national paper!
My fuzzy picture is second turn (86-87) after the start at loratta lynns mx

CoeShow

09-16-2005, 12:34 AM

Thanks guys for your help...........

Mike

350x'inNY

09-17-2005, 04:41 PM

Thanks guys for your help...........

Mike

Sweet man... I remember when I was a kid... wanted to be Coe, Hart, or Sundail! Since my last name is Hartman.... I usually got to be Marty Hart. hahahaa

I think I have an extra Honda 1983 Promotional Sweepstakes Puzzle of you... I'll look around and see if I do and scan it for you....

Bruce "Hondaline" Hartman

Old 179

09-18-2005, 10:15 PM

Mike,
Found 11 of 12 (Only had hour sat. night). Need to find Columbus, Ohio results. ATV News went to bi-monthly at that time. I need to do a little digging, I know it's here. Have final point standings for 1985. Marty Hart 144; Jimmy White 130; Mike Cole 121; Steve Mendenhall 93; Donnie Luce 69. I forgot about the hare scrambles at L-L counting as a event. I wonder, should I post them here, or 4atc thread , or give me a po box to mail to? You could send the address to my "personal mail" and be secured.

Old 179

09-18-2005, 10:19 PM

oops, through a "l" in your last name. sorry about that.

CoeShow

09-21-2005, 11:40 PM

Old179,

I am interested in the actual race results. Ist, second, third. and so forth. The point total was bogus. Honda "bought" that championship for Marty. I can post on that later as well.

Thanks for your effort!

Old 179

09-22-2005, 09:16 PM

Mike, I have what your wanting. I got top ten as printed (scanned out of ATV News) for 200 4-stroke, 200 2-stroke, 250, odyssey and (gulp) quads too for each of the races. Have not looked for Columbus race yet. I threw the season final point standings as a bonus for the other members here.

Old 179

09-29-2005, 01:21 AM

See ATC4ME for 1985 250 pro results

SCOOTER200e

10-05-2005, 08:36 AM

[B] Hello all I just joined and want to hear from other 3-wheelers. I own a 1983 Honda Big Red 200e which I've never gotten stuck. It has huge Buckshot Mudders on the back. I look forward to hearing from everyone.

dubzz_83_200x

10-16-2005, 04:46 PM

does anyone know where i could get a cdi for my 83 200x

oldfart

10-18-2005, 12:12 AM

Yo, guys.... I have finally found some time to answer all your letters, and all the sticker requests are going out 10/18/05. Sorry for the wait. Dean

mad_max

10-18-2005, 11:23 PM

Dean,

What was your favorite 3wheeler?

(I'm sure thats a very tough question to answer but I'm curious which one you feel strongest about)

Thanks
Max

tundrawillie

10-19-2005, 01:40 PM

I just discovered a brochure of the '87 ATC's/Fourtrax's for sale on ebay. It supposedly has a picture of the '87 ATC250R in white. I emailed the seller requesting that he post a pic of the white "R". I have been into three wheelers since 1980. I fondly remember the 1981 ATC250R and the impact it had on our sport. It still makes me sick to think of how three wheelers got a bad rap due to the stupidity of many consumers (and the feeding frenzy of the media). Even though I can go to my local Honda dealer and buy a TRX450R today, this quad could never provide the excitement of ownership like an '86 ATC250R. Probably because I never experienced the purchase experience first hand. I think most of you will agree with me when I say that the 1986 ATC250R was way ahead of its time. I never realized that an ATC450R was in the works, although I've read of a mystical ATC500R. If anyone has more info on this ATC450R, please share with us. In case you all might like the link to the brochure on ebay, here it is: http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/1987-Honda-Fourtrax-ATC-full-line-sale-brochure-ATC250R_W0QQcmdZViewItemQQcategoryZ34237QQitemZ800 8477082QQrdZ1

Jeb

10-19-2005, 02:31 PM

... I think most of you will agree with me when I say that the 1986 ATC250R was way ahead of its time...]

Yes, 100%! Even the 86 CR250R was behind the ATC250R. The CR and most other MX bikes of that time had rear drum brakes instead of discs. :wondering

OldSchoolin86

10-24-2005, 12:45 PM

Yes, 100%! Even the 86 CR250R was behind the ATC250R. The CR and most other MX bikes of that time had rear drum brakes instead of discs. :wondering
I'll have to disagree here Jeb, the only thing the behind was the rear brake, the motor and suspension were easily ahead.

Yamahauler

10-27-2005, 09:40 PM

Hey Dean,
Got the stickers the other day, I put one on my Yamahauler.

Thanks alot!
Cory

oldfart

11-02-2005, 11:44 AM

Which Honda 3wheeler was my fav? Hmmm, difficult question. I probably rode the 200X more than the others. I like the smaller size and light weight when compared to the R and the 350X. When Dickson added the 35mm forks and longer swingarm, this was my all-time favorite four-stroker. With a little more suspension it just worked like a champ.

But to fully answer your question, the 200X needed a little help out of the box to suit my needs, the 350X only required a rear sprocket change and a small mod to the front forks for slower high-speed kick-back. And then there was the 250R.... not much to do to that one! Off the showroom, the late-model "R" was the champ in my book. I can only imagine what Honda COULD have done to that model if they had continued working on it. You gotta know that somewhere in Japan, in some tucked away drawer, there are some plans for what would have been the '87 and '88 250R... that never was.

mad_max

11-05-2005, 12:34 AM

Dean, I know you had access to all kind of 3wheelers over the years but I'm curious if you owned one and what it was?

oldfart

11-05-2005, 02:18 PM

What usually came up is that, we had a ton of loan vehicles from all the mfgs, and of course, we had more Hondas that anything else. When the season was just about over, and the new models were about to be announced, Honda would call us and ask, if we wanted to puchase it, or return it to the loan pool. Most of the time, we just took it back to Gardena, and look forward to the new ones. However, in the case of the 200X, 350X and 250Rs, we bought most of them. Price? Was about 1/2 retail, depending on condition, and sometimes, it was REALLY cheap! Honda allowed each editor to buy one "bike" a year, and it was not a good idea to resell it right away. I recall one time, when we built a Curtis Sparks 240cc kit in one of the 200Xs, Honda's own employee, Tom Buyan, blew the rod and crank out on Comp Hill at Glamis. The engine and trans were total junk, but the rest of the ATC was cherry. Honda didn't want it, so, I think I bought it for about $250. I think I bought a 200S, several 200Xs, a 350X (for my own dune bike), one or two 250Rs, and a Big Red from the pool. The Big Red went to the Dog training ranch which we used for testing, out in the Corona area.

BigGreenMachine

11-05-2005, 02:41 PM

Dean sir, could you help me identify these hubs? They are made for a later model Tecate (86/87 or quad i assume) and have a 4/4 bolt pattern to fit 84 Tecate pattern 8 inch rims. Any idea?

http://www.3wheelerworldforums.com/showthread.php?t=42770

James

oldfart

11-07-2005, 01:00 AM

Sorry, James, that one is out of my area code. You forget, I got out of the ATV business back in '88! That part appears to be way too new for me.

BigGreenMachine

11-08-2005, 10:18 AM

Thanks Dean, in any case its been great reading about all the old times you've had.

Any idea just how much hp Jimmy White's 85 Tecate made?

Old 179

11-09-2005, 08:07 PM

Hey Dean,

One of the "whiz or fizz" questions was on a four- wheeled vehicle by Yamaha called a "MTV" back in 1975, but was never released to the public. Would you recall any info on that piece of history? Thanks

oldfart

11-09-2005, 11:46 PM

You would have to find that issue of Hot Rod magazine to find out more. When I asked the P.R. hacks at Yamaha years later, they knew nothing about it. Perhaps Yamaha was just testing the waters with that small teaser story in Hot Rod, and never got the program off the ground.

Billy Golightly

11-16-2005, 02:22 PM

Dean, In your opinon why did the 3wheeled ATV industry go with out any competitors to Honda for so long? I mean, from 1970 till 79, Honda was the only company really in the three-wheeled market. A few exceptions, but not many. Would you say that this time period of no competition existed because of the patents Honda had placed on their products, or just a general lack of interest from other manufactures? Its always seemed weird to me that Yamaha, Suzuki, or Kawasaki never really got on the boat till the early 80's, and left Honda all alone for the previous 10 years.

oldfart

11-17-2005, 01:08 PM

Good question., I do agree it would be due in a large part to the patents held by Honda, for the foot peg location within the triangle created by the three wheel placement. Also, 3wheelers took up a lot more floor space than a normal motorcycle, not to mention the Odyssey, and to dealers, floor space is money! You could also ask the same question about the Jet Ski market in the late '80s. Why did Kawasaki run away with the market, and Honda ignored it for decades? Were they concerned with polution issues and chose to wait until the 4-stroke engine was accepted?

Curtis-Tecate3

11-17-2005, 03:45 PM

I remember reeading that Kawasaki held some specific patents on its original "Jet-Ski" PWC revolving around the pivoting handpole/handlebar setup. If I am not mistaken some patents have an expiration date and Yamaha quickly followed suit with their standup model as soon as the Kawasaki patent expired.

Curtis.

mad_max

11-20-2005, 02:53 PM

...I do agree it would be due in a large part to the patents held by Honda, for the foot peg location within the triangle created by the three wheel placement....

Dean, your comment above made me think about Yamaha's Tri Moto 125. I had a friend that bought two new in (I think) 1980. They were fairly quick, which I liked, but I hated the handling. I never understood the rearward placement of the engine. Do you suppose Yamaha did this due to patents that Honda held?

oldfart

11-20-2005, 09:38 PM

Yes, sir! Yamaha really had their work cut out for themselves with all the Honda patents to go around. The rearward engine placement, foot pegs, the design of the and placement of the gas tank and so on, were all part of the Honda design. If you remember, you could get extended foot pegs with the Tri-Moto 125, which is one way Yamaha got around the (Honda) design.

ATCT

12-09-2005, 01:26 AM

Oh, guys here's the drill. If you want two 3Wheeling Magazine vintage stickers (large yellow ones), read 2, I will do this.... Send me a self-address, stamped envelope, throw in a buck (for my hard labor and gas in driving to the post office @ $2.17 a gallon), and I will send you some. This is a limited time offer, no discounts to Dirt Wheels readers, and will last only as long as I can find old stickers up in the rafters of my garage... If you want more, then figure two-fer-a-buck. My mailing address is

Dean Kirsten
3Wheeling Magazine Guru
1311 York Drive
Vista, CA 92084

I will let you know when I reach the bottom of my ATC sticker box. Okay? Dean

Hi Dean. I'm new to the forum and website. I recently purchased a 200X after being out of the sport for 20 years (I owned a 350X back then), and what I was hoping would be immediate enjoyment has led me to a complete restoration project of not one, but two X's (I've bought so many parts off eBay, it makes my head hurt to think about it). And I still haven't ridden a trike for 20 years!! Anyway, I wanted to thank you for all the great stories. It brings back some good memories

I'm sure you get sick of being asked this, but do you have any more stickers? I would love one if you have it (I'll do as asked above).

By the way, do you know whatever happened to Phil Beckman? I'm not sure if you answered that or not (this is a LONG thread--I've tried to read it all in one sitting--sorry if you have). He was a good writer and recently have been wondering what happened to him (after reading a few of his old editorials).

Thanks,
Tom

82300R

12-10-2005, 01:46 AM

dean, i want to thank you for the stickers, they will go good with the boxes of three wheeling mags i have been holding on to since the early eighties.the last one i had was on the inside front fender of my then new 83 250r. enjoying all the stories from the good old days.

oldfart

12-10-2005, 09:07 PM

Phil Beckman lives up in the Arrowhead/Big Bear (California) area, and is self employed. He does mostly ad and catalog stuff, and still works with Tim Orchard of OMF. Haven't talked to Phil in years. He is/was a great photographer and awesome 3-wheeler rider.

P.S. Stickers are still available..

Billy Golightly

12-10-2005, 10:11 PM

Dean, out of all the trikes you rode and reviewed during your time at 3Wheeling, which one would you consider the underdog of all of them?

ATCT

12-10-2005, 11:48 PM

CorbinKale

12-14-2005, 02:11 AM

P.S. Stickers are still available..

That is wonderful news! I will be sending my request soon, as I was a big fan of your magazine. I am very happy to see you are a member here!

I see I will not be the first to introduce myself in this thread, so I hope it won't be seen as a hijack. I must admit that I almost teared up when I found this site. I had thought I was one of the few remaining weirdos who still had a passion for the ATC's.

I got a '85 350X in 1986 from a guy who rode it 20 miles, flipped it in a ditch and busted his arm. I traded him for a Seca 650 worth $1,300. Needless to say, I it was love at first sight. I rode it all through the mountains in Arkansas, in Texas river bottoms, all over Turkey Creek in TVA Land Between the Lakes in Tennessee, dropped it through the ice in Lake Milford in Kansas one winter, where it floated upside down for a week while I was in the field, and I even had it on a glacier in Alaska, after I got stationed at Ft. Richardson. That 350X just took all kinds of abuse and came back for more, until...

The last time I rode it, I was about 50 miles out in the Alaska wilderness when my right rear bearings failed. I was alone and had to ride the thing back like that, cringing the whole way at the crunching noises beneath me, but it got me home alive. That was in December of '92. I parked it and kept it in storage until now. Multiple wives, deployments and wars kept me from having enough time or money to get it repaired, but I refused to get rid of it. Newly retired and currently single, I finally have time to get my poor baby rolling again. Let me tell you, riding 50 miles on busted bearings ABSOLUTELY DESTROYS the carrier. I can't believe the axle is still servicable, considering the damage to that mangled carrier.

I went to the local Honda dealer before I got a look at the inside of my carrier and was amazed that they had the bearings and seals in stock! I had halfway hoped that the carrier might have magically healed itself during the past 13 years, it IS a Honda after all, but the diagnosis was obvious at a glance. Gotta get a new carrier. No dealer on the planet has THAT in stock, though. My search for the carrier led me here. Your forums have pointed me to RAD and Maier who look to have the parts to get the trike back in shape. Thank you, all!

I am currently looking at getting a few more 350Xs to fix up, too. Tearing that back end apart last night made me feel like a kid again. I, definitely, still have the fever for my trike. I look forward to swapping stories with you happy few, who keep the torch burning! /salute

Corbin