[Leica] PhotoMoto - beware Vespas

["jeff corsiglia" <hoover2@charter.net>]

As a new leica user with long experience on two wheels, I must warn against
scooter use.  They are less safe than full sized motorcycles, mostly because
their small wheels provide far less gyroscopic stability...noticable mostly
when you're in trouble and need a bit of same.
Secondly, the small diameter of the wheel causes the typical scooter's
inadequate suspension to be overworked by potholes, RR tracks, etc.
Thirdly, conspicuity is important for safety, scooters don't have much.
Not to say they aren't groovy, but they are a challenge to an expert
motorcyclist while being marketed to beginners.  Run, run away.

For the same buckaroos you can pick up an excellent used motorcycle, like a
lesser displacement BMW bagger, (eg.K75).   Reliable and cheap to run.  If
you can, just buy liability insurance and take the hit if it's stolen.
You'll quickly save the price of another used bike in reduced premiums.

I use a K100RS with a tank bag for my cameras.  The tank bag has a shoulder
strap and detaches easily from the gas tank. I cut a foam block for M2 and
two lenses.  Another for my pair of lllg's.  I got the accessory rain cover
for the tank bag and have had no problem with dirt or water.

The bike is easy to use in the city and great cross country.
I put 80,000 miles on my current bike and consider it just broken in.  Check
the newsprint photo ads at the convenience store for a good buy.

Of course, you are MUCH safer in a car...a dent to a car is a year of rehab
to a bike rider.
Do NOT expect anyone to SEE you!!  I can't stress this enough.  YOU ARE
INVISIBLE TO MOTORISTS. Don't drive defensively,  drive PARANOID.  They're
out to get you.
Avoid rain unless you are VERY expert...poor traction, manhole covers and
diagonal train tracks deadly as is the accompanying lower visibility.
Stopping distances especially long in the wet.
Finally, take a safety course.

Sorry to be a nag...just trying to help.

Anybody know how to re-silver an M rangefinder prism?

- --
To unsubscribe, see http://mejac.palo-alto.ca.us/leica-users/unsub.html