It is with a heavy heart . . . - Page 2

abtech · 05-23-2007, 07:35 AM

Damn. I don't know what to say except thanks for all the positive wishes. I don't plan on leaving the forum at all, as this place is really part of "home" for me.

It is/was a difficult decision and one I really didn't expect to make as recent as two weeks ago, as I have been doing very well after extended rehab. Evidently I have overcome the debilitation through therapy, but have had zero success with changing anything structural and well, the structure just isn't there at this point.

On the up side, I haven't taken any pain meds in over two months and am no longer limited to lifting no more than 10 pounds (an impossible situation, as I usually move servers and tape libraries several times during a normal work day).

As far as finding something else to replace riding, I don't think that is really possible, as I have never been much of a spectator and the neuro guy says car racing could be just as bad. One good hit in the wrong place and it's a house of cards . . .

Anyway, this will give me time to pursue another passion and if things come together, I'll let everyone know how it's going.

Thanks to everyone for their supportive comments, see you at Grattan

Jetbdude · 05-23-2007, 07:40 AM

WOW. I'm speechless. Frank, you're a BIG part of the reason I love track days that much. I had a great amount of respect for you, and now I have even more. Thought decision and the hard choice is usually the right one.

Please keep on putting together the best track day there is for years to come! You're the man!

P.S. I had the chance of riding the RC for a session last year at Grattan. This is one hell of a nice bike

abtech · 05-23-2007, 07:41 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Firefly

So sorry to hear this... It sounds like this has caused you many sleepless nights...as it should. You've made the right choice and even if you're not out there riding, you'll always be able to enjoy many other aspects of the sport! You just get to enjoy them on a higher level than most of us!

Oh yeah...parade pace? Does that include taking Little Firefly (or as she'd prefer to be called at Grattan: Gemini Firefly!) out for a lap or two next month?

Yep

deftones156 · 05-23-2007, 08:37 AM

Wow...sorry to hear this, Ab.

I hope you can find something else to be as passionate about as you were about riding motorcycles.

OSIRIS · 05-23-2007, 09:03 AM

smoothrideronli · 05-23-2007, 09:36 AM

Wow after reading your post I feel a little bit of pain...I havent even met you but I always thought of you as the superhero rider that everyone looks up to and strives to be...kind of like a kid saying I want to be just like Superman. I have not known another person that I can automatically trust in their motorcycle advice without question and to see that you are forced to give up riding...I take that almost as seriously as if I had to give it up myself. The next time I get on my bike to go for a ride, I will think of you and appreciate more what I often take for granted. Really sorry to hear and good luck with your recovery...hopefully they will come up with some medical miracle and we will see on twos again.

DonB · 05-23-2007, 10:37 AM

A manly decision.

There's no doubt you'll be just as passionate and successful with your next undertaking, whatever it is.

asiliat · 05-23-2007, 11:07 AM

Hey Ab, there's always knitting. hahahahahahaha.

Don't worry, I collected stamps when I was younger.

TornadoBait · 05-23-2007, 11:16 AM

Abtech, as many others have mentioned, we all respect your decision and understand the serious thought your situation must have invoked. No doubt your wealth of knowledge and talent will remain sought after by your huge motorcycle family. And though you've decided to step out of the saddle I hope you can still feed your love for the sport in other roles.

gt702 · 05-23-2007, 11:47 AM

Sorry to hear you had to make a decission like that, and hope that if I'm ever forced to I'd make the smart one too. Best of luck in whatever pursuit you chose to fill the gap, and in continued improvements with therapy and development. Thanks for the inspiration, on track and off.

CBR929RE · 05-23-2007, 01:12 PM

I really can't think of anything to say. I mean Frank without a motorcycle, that thought never would have crossed my mind in a million years. You've taught everyone so much and I can't wait to learn ever more from you when I finally get to meet you in June.

smkeatr · 05-23-2007, 07:10 PM

A wise decision from a very wise man. Respect goes out to you for setting your priorities straight. I'm sure I speak for everyone as I continue to look forward to your credible advise on anything motorcycle related. Good luck in your endeavors. Stay healthy.

Leelover · 05-23-2007, 07:13 PM

I am very sorry to hear this Abtech. I pray the prognosis gets better.

Getsome · 05-23-2007, 08:02 PM

So sorry to hear this. I know there will be a void in your heart and soul that probably will never be filled again by not being able to ride.

I hope the new passion you pursue give you much joy. Keep us posted.

Mojave954 · 05-23-2007, 08:12 PM

WOW, sorry to hear this. Hopefully you will stick around.

davef · 05-23-2007, 10:51 PM

Frank, Emily and I are both bummed about this, but it sounds like you made the right decision. Thanks for being a rider for us all to look up to.

Dave and Em

SPY · 05-24-2007, 12:47 AM

Damn Ab, I am sorry to hear this... But glad that you are man enough to make the right decision. It really takes a lot to give up something you love so much. I hope to see you stick around here and continue to share your knowledge with us.

On a lighter note... I really wish I was in the posistion to give that RC of yours a great home. I have wanted one for the longest time. Its just not in the cards for me... (or in the paychecks!) hahahahaha

See you around buddy

Greg

f1_hurricane · 05-24-2007, 12:47 AM

Sorry for your loss as a rider but look at it as a new oppertunity. Nothings stopping you from wrenching on bikes in your spare time should you be so inclined. I mean theres the slect few riders (such as myself) who have trouble wrenching on bikes but hate to pay dealer prices. Surely with your knowledge of them you could do something to that aspect. I mean just because you cant ride doesnt mean you cant be part of the motorcycle community in one way or another. Keep your chin up.

Bacchus · 05-24-2007, 02:15 AM

For those of you who don't know the face of abtech (I'm sure the owner of the mug hiding under the helmet will recognize this also), here ya go....

I TOLD you guys I NEVER throw ANYTHING out.

Edit: well, except for Stegen's shaved ass. I think I actually jettisoned that one...

abtech · 05-24-2007, 07:30 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Bacchus

For those of you who don't know the face of abtech (I'm sure the owner of the mug hiding under the helmet will recognize this also), here ya go....

I TOLD you guys I NEVER throw ANYTHING out.

Edit: well, except for Stegen's shaved ass. I think I actually jettisoned that one...

man I haven't seen that one for awhile

CBRVFR · 05-24-2007, 09:51 AM

Just as a testimony to the high degree of respect and love we have for you, Frank -

50 posts in and no one has used the word "pussy."

tigerblade · 05-24-2007, 10:06 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by CBRVFR

Just as a testimony to the high degree of respect and love we have for you, Frank -

50 posts in and no one has used the word "pussy."

I would say you took the word right out of my mouth, but that in itself might have been misconstrued.

SheepOfBlue · 05-24-2007, 10:23 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by CBRVFR

Just as a testimony to the high degree of respect and love we have for you, Frank -

50 posts in and no one has used the word "pussy."

...personally it is more the pain I feel from ANYONE having to involuntarily stop riding... I do plan to terrorize him at Grattan still

abtech · 05-24-2007, 10:28 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by SheepOfBlue

...personally it is more the pain I feel from ANYONE having to involuntarily stop riding... I do plan to terrorize him at Grattan still

Did you forget who will be holding the stopwatch?

SheepOfBlue · 05-24-2007, 11:05 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by abtech

Did you forget who will be holding the stopwatch?

Fear is for weak people

nhfirefighter13 · 05-24-2007, 11:20 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Bacchus

For those of you who don't know the face of abtech (I'm sure the owner of the mug hiding under the helmet will recognize this also), here ya go....

I TOLD you guys I NEVER throw ANYTHING out.

Bikerboy1974 · 05-24-2007, 11:24 AM

Abtech, sorry to hear about the decision you were forced to make. It's a hard one, I know. You made the right decision, no doubt.

Nice thing about motorcycling as a whole is that even though you may not be able to ride (like I am at this moment also) you can still follow it with the same passion. I still read up on all the latest news and keep well informed. You may lose the ability to ride, but it's impossible (IMHO) to lose the passion that one has for the sport. That is what will always be there for you!

Good luck with the rest of your recovery, and we look forward to hearing your continued wisdom.

seamus · 05-24-2007, 11:25 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by abtech

Did you forget who will be holding the sundial?

Fixed that for you.

bwhip · 05-24-2007, 11:37 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by seamus

Fixed that for you.

VaporRep sent your way...

HondaGalToo · 05-24-2007, 11:42 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by abtech

Did you forget who will be holding the stopwatch?

I'm glad you'll be sticking around the board. I can't begin to thank you for all the knowledge you've imparted over the years. I've learned so much about motorcycles in general and my 929 in particular from you. You're the reason my 929 is so modded. I read about all the good stuff and decided to give it a go. I've never wrenched on a bike quite as much as that one. It's got lots of goodies on it to prove it!

05-23-2007, 07:35 AM	#31
abtech Believe Join Date: 12-14-2006 Age: 60 Bike(s): 66 Puch Scrambler Posts: 4,430	Re: It is with a heavy heart . . . Damn. I don't know what to say except thanks for all the positive wishes. I don't plan on leaving the forum at all, as this place is really part of "home" for me. It is/was a difficult decision and one I really didn't expect to make as recent as two weeks ago, as I have been doing very well after extended rehab. Evidently I have overcome the debilitation through therapy, but have had zero success with changing anything structural and well, the structure just isn't there at this point. On the up side, I haven't taken any pain meds in over two months and am no longer limited to lifting no more than 10 pounds (an impossible situation, as I usually move servers and tape libraries several times during a normal work day). As far as finding something else to replace riding, I don't think that is really possible, as I have never been much of a spectator and the neuro guy says car racing could be just as bad. One good hit in the wrong place and it's a house of cards . . . Anyway, this will give me time to pursue another passion and if things come together, I'll let everyone know how it's going. Thanks to everyone for their supportive comments, see you at Grattan __________________ Now in stereo AAA doesn't only refer to the Auto Club . . . and Seamus is awesome

05-23-2007, 07:40 AM	#32
Jetbdude #20 Join Date: 12-13-2006 Location: Canada eh! Age: 35 Bike(s): 07 600RR Posts: 3,664	Re: It is with a heavy heart . . . WOW. I'm speechless. Frank, you're a BIG part of the reason I love track days that much. I had a great amount of respect for you, and now I have even more. Thought decision and the hard choice is usually the right one. Please keep on putting together the best track day there is for years to come! You're the man! P.S. I had the chance of riding the RC for a session last year at Grattan. This is one hell of a nice bike __________________ Happy wife, happy life.

05-23-2007, 08:37 AM	#34
deftones156 I'll never tell a lie.......SUCKER!! Join Date: 12-18-2006 Location: Milwaukee, WI Age: 28 Bike(s): 1996 900RR (sold) Posts: 684	Re: It is with a heavy heart . . . Wow...sorry to hear this, Ab. I hope you can find something else to be as passionate about as you were about riding motorcycles. __________________ What's my drug of choice? Well, what have you got?

05-23-2007, 09:03 AM	#35
OSIRIS Join Date: 12-13-2006 Age: 32 Bike(s): 2006 1000RR Posts: 1,098	Re: It is with a heavy heart . . . __________________ OS X Underground

05-23-2007, 09:36 AM	#36
smoothrideronli Join Date: 12-18-2006 Location: New York Age: 35 Bike(s): 2004 1000RR, 2008 1000RR Posts: 1,767	Re: It is with a heavy heart . . . Wow after reading your post I feel a little bit of pain...I havent even met you but I always thought of you as the superhero rider that everyone looks up to and strives to be...kind of like a kid saying I want to be just like Superman. I have not known another person that I can automatically trust in their motorcycle advice without question and to see that you are forced to give up riding...I take that almost as seriously as if I had to give it up myself. The next time I get on my bike to go for a ride, I will think of you and appreciate more what I often take for granted. Really sorry to hear and good luck with your recovery...hopefully they will come up with some medical miracle and we will see on twos again. __________________

05-23-2007, 10:37 AM	#37
DonB Join Date: 02-15-2007 Age: 46 Bike(s): CBR929Re Posts: 122	Re: It is with a heavy heart . . . A manly decision. There's no doubt you'll be just as passionate and successful with your next undertaking, whatever it is.

05-23-2007, 11:07 AM	#38
asiliat Join Date: 01-10-2007 Bike(s): 2K 929 Posts: 565	Re: It is with a heavy heart . . . Hey Ab, there's always knitting. hahahahahahaha. Don't worry, I collected stamps when I was younger.

05-23-2007, 11:16 AM	#39
TornadoBait Join Date: 12-18-2006 Location: KC Bike(s): 2005 600RR Posts: 1,451	Re: It is with a heavy heart . . . Abtech, as many others have mentioned, we all respect your decision and understand the serious thought your situation must have invoked. No doubt your wealth of knowledge and talent will remain sought after by your huge motorcycle family. And though you've decided to step out of the saddle I hope you can still feed your love for the sport in other roles. __________________ CCS#27, CMRA#271, ASRA Pro#271 Dunlop, Vortex, Vesrah, Silkolene, PitBull, TRW Web Design Cafe Racer Inc. Tornado Bait Racing

05-23-2007, 11:47 AM	#40
gt702 See you at Grattan Join Date: 12-18-2006 Bike(s): Some Hondas and a Kwacker Posts: 1,467	Re: It is with a heavy heart . . . Sorry to hear you had to make a decission like that, and hope that if I'm ever forced to I'd make the smart one too. Best of luck in whatever pursuit you chose to fill the gap, and in continued improvements with therapy and development. Thanks for the inspiration, on track and off. __________________ Reality is merely an illusion, albeit a very persistent one. Albert Einstein

05-23-2007, 01:12 PM	#41
CBR929RE posing for the camera Join Date: 12-18-2006 Location: at home Age: 29 Bike(s): 01 R/B/W CBR929RR Posts: 5,465	Re: It is with a heavy heart . . . I really can't think of anything to say. I mean Frank without a motorcycle, that thought never would have crossed my mind in a million years. You've taught everyone so much and I can't wait to learn ever more from you when I finally get to meet you in June. __________________ "If everything seems under control, you're just not going fast enough" - Mario Andretti

05-23-2007, 07:10 PM	#42
smkeatr Join Date: 12-18-2006 Location: Central Florida Age: 39 Bike(s): 2-06' VT750DC, CRF250R Posts: 276	Re: It is with a heavy heart . . . A wise decision from a very wise man. Respect goes out to you for setting your priorities straight. I'm sure I speak for everyone as I continue to look forward to your credible advise on anything motorcycle related. Good luck in your endeavors. Stay healthy.

05-23-2007, 07:13 PM	#43
Leelover Remembering RAH-VFR...RIP #20 Join Date: 12-18-2006 Location: Fort Myers, FL Bike(s): 06 FJR1300 & 01 GSXR 750 Posts: 1,472	Re: It is with a heavy heart . . . I am very sorry to hear this Abtech. I pray the prognosis gets better. __________________ "The Father wove the skein of your life a long time ago. Go and hide in a hole if you wish, but you won't live one instant longer. Your fate is fixed. Fear profits a man nothing." Herger the Joyous

05-23-2007, 08:02 PM	#44
Getsome MSF RiderCoach Join Date: 12-27-2006 Location: Bristol, TN Age: 35 Bike(s): 05 CBR 1000RR Posts: 146	Re: It is with a heavy heart . . . So sorry to hear this. I know there will be a void in your heart and soul that probably will never be filled again by not being able to ride. I hope the new passion you pursue give you much joy. Keep us posted.

05-23-2007, 08:12 PM	#45
Mojave954 Join Date: 12-18-2006 Bike(s): 08 FJR, 08 R 1200 GS Posts: 1,002	Re: It is with a heavy heart . . . WOW, sorry to hear this. Hopefully you will stick around.

05-23-2007, 10:51 PM	#46
davef Pfired :( Join Date: 12-19-2006 Location: Reading, PA Age: 36 Bike(s): 954 Posts: 678	Re: It is with a heavy heart . . . Frank, Emily and I are both bummed about this, but it sounds like you made the right decision. Thanks for being a rider for us all to look up to. Dave and Em __________________ 2002 945RR...She may not look like much, but she's got it where it counts, kid.

05-24-2007, 12:47 AM	#47
SPY It feels great to be among friends again! Join Date: 12-20-2006 Location: Tucson, AZ Age: 31 Bike(s): 2003 954RR Posts: 160	Re: It is with a heavy heart . . . Damn Ab, I am sorry to hear this... But glad that you are man enough to make the right decision. It really takes a lot to give up something you love so much. I hope to see you stick around here and continue to share your knowledge with us. On a lighter note... I really wish I was in the posistion to give that RC of yours a great home. I have wanted one for the longest time. Its just not in the cards for me... (or in the paychecks!) hahahahaha See you around buddy Greg __________________ I love this whole "working out" thing!

05-24-2007, 12:47 AM	#48
f1_hurricane Four feet tall with three feet teeth Join Date: 01-06-2007 Age: 22 Bike(s): 1998 GSXR 750 Posts: 1,125	Re: It is with a heavy heart . . . Sorry for your loss as a rider but look at it as a new oppertunity. Nothings stopping you from wrenching on bikes in your spare time should you be so inclined. I mean theres the slect few riders (such as myself) who have trouble wrenching on bikes but hate to pay dealer prices. Surely with your knowledge of them you could do something to that aspect. I mean just because you cant ride doesnt mean you cant be part of the motorcycle community in one way or another. Keep your chin up.

05-24-2007, 02:15 AM	#49
Bacchus RooOfBlue Join Date: 01-04-2007 Location: Fleurieu Peninsula / Down Under Age: 62 Bike(s): No bike at present Posts: 222	Re: It is with a heavy heart . . . For those of you who don't know the face of abtech (I'm sure the owner of the mug hiding under the helmet will recognize this also), here ya go.... I TOLD you guys I NEVER throw ANYTHING out. Edit: well, except for Stegen's shaved ass. I think I actually jettisoned that one... Attached Thumbnails Last edited by Bacchus; 05-24-2007 at 03:28 AM..

05-24-2007, 09:51 AM	#51
CBRVFR Age of bike + rider = 78 !! Join Date: 12-13-2006 Age: 57 Bike(s): VFR SV TZ250 RC30 Posts: 7,915	Re: It is with a heavy heart . . . Just as a testimony to the high degree of respect and love we have for you, Frank - 50 posts in and no one has used the word "pussy." __________________ Eigoga Mothafucku - Hanashimaska? Godspeed, # 20 - Rich Herald, the Gentle Giant

05-24-2007, 11:24 AM	#57
Bikerboy1974 Join Date: 12-18-2006 Location: Med City, MN Age: 35 Bike(s): Both sold, lookin 4 new 1 Posts: 568	Re: It is with a heavy heart . . . Abtech, sorry to hear about the decision you were forced to make. It's a hard one, I know. You made the right decision, no doubt. Nice thing about motorcycling as a whole is that even though you may not be able to ride (like I am at this moment also) you can still follow it with the same passion. I still read up on all the latest news and keep well informed. You may lose the ability to ride, but it's impossible (IMHO) to lose the passion that one has for the sport. That is what will always be there for you! Good luck with the rest of your recovery, and we look forward to hearing your continued wisdom. __________________ There is no 12 step program or counseling available for my addiction...thank God!

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