Got to admit that I’m not posting as much as I used to on Jimmy Mac On Two Wheels. It seems to take longer and longer to compose stories or to come up ideas that riders care about. One section that is still easy to fill is Running When Parked. There is no shortage of bikes being listed as running when parked (heck, I’ve got a bunch myself).
In my RWP’ed searches, it is clear that Honda Gold Wings lead the parked parade. That’s not surprising. It is the type of motorcycle that is purchased later in life. This mature rider puts in serious adventures while checking off boxes on the old bucket list. Once the list is complete (or the transmission starts acting up or the knee buckles), the golden wing is parked in the garage until the owner (or the owner’s kids) decide to pass the bike on to a new rider/mechanic.
This one here is representative of the breed. Yes, it has mechanical issues. That is a bummer for all but a mechanic. Even with the transmission troubles, the bike was well cared for and has lots of great components. The problem is that Gold Wings appeal to an older rider and what old fart wants a project? I know I don’t. I just want to ride.
An energetic mechanic who wants to start a business that specializes in Gold Wing restoration and service could make a killing because there are a lot of these bikes out there and enough riders with a bucket list to fill.
WHAT IS A RWP’ed?
The phrase “Running When Parked” (RWP) is code for a once treasured possession that has been neglected in the corner of the garage or tool shed for far too long. Lacking the energy, time or resources to bring the little beauty back to life, the owner lists it for sale in hopes that a new owner will massage it back to health. Our collection of RWP bikes fall into two distinct categories; treasure or trash. And you are the only one who can properly judge which category the bike belongs in.