I’ve detailed elsewhere the calamity that was my July Vacation, and my friend’s accident. I’ve posted on Twitter about his recovery but I don’t believe I’ve blogged about it so here you go.

Not only is he up and walking (hobbling is more like it) without a walker or cane, but he’s back to work and driving (has been for a few months now). Pretty remarkable recovery after a fractured pelvis.

Here is the final bit of that recovery: Next week he travels to Billings (I’ll probably tag along) to pick up his new bike, a 2007 Speedmaster. This is probably the most desirable year: still has carburetors and the better looking gas tank. It’s deep red, low miles, loaded with accessories and a heck of a price. The best part is I get to tease him about only buying bikes that I ride first.

In the Fall of 2002 I rode a cardinal red demo Bonneville America while mine was getting its 4000mi tuneup at Tingley’s in Missoula. That’s the bike John bought and eventually wrecked (Here is John and our bikes in 2008, while we were traveling to NW Washington):

When the current owner of the ’07 Speedy came through Helena for lunch, he asked me to take it around the block because he thought he “heard a weird noise.” Sure thing. That was the largest block I think I’ve ever ridden around.

I know what John’s plans are for customizing this bike and I can’t wait to see it. Even more I can’t wait to see him riding again.