Meet the Rider
My name is William Flaiz, and I'm thrilled to share my passion for European motorcycles with you.
My motorcycle journey began at the age of 25, when I decided it was essential to learn how to ride. With safety and skills as my priority, I completed the Pennsylvania Motorcycle Safety Course, obtaining my license and a fundamental understanding of motorcycle handling.
My initial ride was a Kawasaki Ninja 500 – an excellent choice for beginners, balancing manageability with enough power to keep the ride exciting. However, my quest for more thrilling experiences soon led me to upgrade to a Honda CBR 900. This step, albeit ambitious, taught me an invaluable lesson in the importance of matching a motorcycle to one’s experience level, as I ultimately had to part with the bike due to an unavoidable incident.
The turning point in my motorcycling life was my fascination with the iconic styles of European motorcycles, particularly the classic cafe racer. This new chapter began with a 1969 Moto Guzzi Ambassador. Despite lacking mechanical skills, I was determined to restore this beauty to its former glory, relying on the vast resources available online, including educational YouTube tutorials.
My journey continued with a series of distinguished motorcycles: the temperamental yet beloved 1975 Ducati 860GT, the reliable and simplistic 1975 BMW R60/6, and the exhilarating 1997 Ducati 900SS. Each motorcycle not only offered unique riding experiences but also deepened my appreciation for the craftsmanship and heritage of European bike manufacturers.
A move to San Francisco marked a new era, steering me towards more practical yet equally fascinating models like the 2009 Triumph Thruxton and, eventually, the classic 1969 BSA Lightning and a 1999 Ducati 748. My latest acquisition, a 2014 Moto Guzzi V7 Racer, serves as my daily companion, embodying the rich history and enduring charm of European motorcycles.
2024 A Year of Transitions: From Moto Guzzi to Triumph
Over the past 12 months, my motorcycle journey has taken some exciting turns. I parted ways with my 2014 Moto Guzzi V7 Racer, a bike that had been my daily companion and a symbol of European motorcycle charm. In its place, I embraced the 2015 BMW R nineT, a machine that beautifully blends classic aesthetics with modern performance.
The R nineT's 1170cc air/oil-cooled boxer engine delivered a robust 110 horsepower, providing an exhilarating ride that paid homage to BMW's rich heritage. Its modular design and high-quality components made it a standout in the retro roadster segment.
However, the journey didn't stop there. I soon found myself drawn to the 2017 Triumph Thruxton 1200 R, a modern café racer that captures the spirit of British motorcycling. With its 1200cc high-power parallel-twin engine producing 97 horsepower and 82.6 lb-ft of torque, the Thruxton R offers both style and substance. Its Öhlins suspension and Brembo brakes ensure a ride that's as responsive as it is refined.
These transitions reflect my ongoing passion for exploring the diverse landscapes of European motorcycles, each offering unique experiences and stories.
It was through these experiences that my interest in the history and legacy of European motorcycle brands deepened. My enthusiasm has grown into a mission to share this passion and knowledge with others, leading to the creation of RunMotorun.com.
On this platform, I aim to provide a comprehensive look into the world of European motorcycles, offering insights, reviews, and personal stories. I strive to ensure the information presented is accurate, relevant, and engaging, drawing from my extensive personal experiences and continuous research into the evolution of these iconic brands.
Thank you for joining me on this journey. Whether you’re a seasoned rider or new to the motorcycle community, I hope to inspire and inform you about the fascinating world of European motorcycles. Welcome to RunMotorun.com – let's embark on this ride together.
