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.
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.
