NEW MEMBERS - Read this - I'm sorry, but c'mon people.

[beachcomber]

OK - I hold my hands up ..........................................

First "dumb" question soon after I started subscribing to DTT, was "Where do I find a Cafe Racer section". Didn't occur to me to look under "Big Arsed Projects".

Second was quite recent when I couldn't remember where I'd seen the info. on headstock bearing / stem / stanchion dimensions.

OF COURSE it was under 0-800 whatever ............... that might make perfect sense on your side of the pond - but it means farg all here in the UK !!!

[Bozz]

Great discussion!
One of the best things about this forum is that it is global.  We can benefit from experience from so many people, it is truly amazing.
However, one of the most delicate things about this forum is LANGUAGE.
As BC points out, phrases, idioms, and lingo that is completely common in one group of folks is equally confusing to other folks.  A lot of us are in North America, and unless you've traveled/lived/spent time elsewhere you may not realize just how much of your daily language is influenced by your particular location/culture.
Relax, enjoy!  Encourage others and be open to others ideas.  Stay willing to learn from mistakes, and be alert for misunderstandings and imperfect translations.

And be aware that the quirky comment you intended to be supportive and/or funny COULD be read as offensive/disrespectful/crass by the right pair of eyes...

[4eyes]

"And be aware that the quirky comment you intended to be supportive and/or funny COULD be read as offensive/disrespectful/crass by the right pair of eyes..."

BTDT...but so long as the dialog is kept open, it can be a learning/growing experience for BOTH parties.

I agree with most of what has been said, and I will add a couple of quotes I have found useful.

"If one man built it, another can fix it."

"The most important things you will do, can only be learned by trial and error."

"The only stupid question, is the one that goes unasked"

[AlphaDogCustoms]

Or...

There is no such thing as a stupid question...

But there sure are a lot of inquisitive idiots.

[Drewski]

I totally agree with Yinz here. He says it better than I can. 

It's simple and complicated all at the same time. 

It seems to me that for most here, the longer you're here, and active on the forum, the more likely it is that you'll "get it". When I say active I mean, build something, share the process, post pics, ask questions and "Lounge at the Club". This is my favourite place on the forum. 

The words "community" and "family" are commonly used on forums to describe the on-line relationships that develop. I know that here at DTT, it's a family dynamic that I sense among the active long time members. I don't often get that feeling elsewhere. 

[rattpunk]

Straight up, this thread epitomizes why I joined this forum. 


It's only the second forum ever for me. Volksrods being my first, back in my Cali VW days.  I mean sure there are gonna be some dicks in the park wherever you live, but it's the general atmosphere that brings you back.  If this place had been about a scene or a style it wouldn't be for me.  I'm here because it's always felt like a place to enjoy riding and wrenching. A place I could look up info and ask if I couldn't find it.  Somewhere I could share my little slice of life on my bike.  If anyone was interested they could stop off and check it out.  If no one gave a shit, they just moved on to something else.  I don't feel discounted because I can't weld or fabricate, no one talks shit because I still can't figure out how to ground my aftermarket lights.


Shit like this makes me smile.

[Drewski]

Shit like this makes me smile.

I come here for the same reason. You all at the very least, make me smile or, more often, laugh out loud!   

You can never laugh too much. It's so good to laugh! Thank you all! 

[MILKY]

Straight up, this thread epitomizes why I joined this forum. 


It's only the second forum ever for me. Volksrods being my first, back in my Cali VW days.  I mean sure there are gonna be some dicks in the park wherever you live, but it's the general atmosphere that brings you back.  If this place had been about a scene or a style it wouldn't be for me.  I'm here because it's always felt like a place to enjoy riding and wrenching. A place I could look up info and ask if I couldn't find it.  Somewhere I could share my little slice of life on my bike.  If anyone was interested they could stop off and check it out.  If no one gave a shit, they just moved on to something else.  I don't feel discounted because I can't weld or fabricate, no one talks shit because I still can't figure out how to ground my aftermarket lights.


Shit like this makes me smile.

right on... this forum has by turns inspired and infuriated me... but i have learnt a lot, mainly by asking questions, reading and then trying it for my self.. i have gone from not knowing a two stroke from a 4 stroke to starting my own build... and that after all is whats its all about...inspiring.

[gk45011]

Or...

There is no such thing as a stupid question...

But there sure are a lot of inquisitive idiots.

HEY....... I RESEMBLE THAT STATEMENT!!! GRRRRRRRR 

  In all seriousness though this site has been a wealth of knowledge. Other sites may have more bike specific information. Some of those sites aso are a wealth of knowledge to "SEARCH" for information. Many of those other sites tend to be a little (jaded, opinionated for lack of a better term) to anyone asking a question that might differ from their opinion or veiwpoint.

 I 100% agree that a safety issue shouldn't be ignored. It is a dis-service to myself or anyone else that modifies, hacks, builds, or tinkers. The great part about this site is the fact that so many people can veiw and reveiw what you are doing. What seems logical to one person, may have a glaring issue when viewed by another. There is so much knowledge here combined that what one person may have overlooked, stands out like a sore thumb to another.

 I have had thoughts of ways to do certain repairs or modifications only to research and find there was a much simpler way to tackle the issue. The great part about this site is the information is here, or peple are willing to help out, BUT ONLY if you are willing to listen. When it comes to the hipsters they want a pat on the back and a positive reaffirmation to the answer they are usually :already giving in their question".

 Will I listen or do everything I read, am quoted on this site when it comes to astetics?....NO. However if it comes to SAFETY or engineering you bet your A$$ I would follow the word of those who have gone before us and know more about the situation. How many of us know someone, a riders hard tail cracking during the chopper craze or other horror story?

 I for one am greatful for this site and the wealth of information and opinions given here. Hopefully the people and spirt of this site will go on for a long time. Sites ike this with honest opinions and facts posted (usually) with class and details are what make this site stand apart from the others.

Enough ranting- go bulid something... 

[Swagger]

Nobody learns without scars, hopefully you earn them yourself.