As it turns out, Bartel's rocket-scientist mechanics were able to get that cover off without pulling the engine, so the oil leak in the rear cyclinder "only" set me back $123.

And then guess what happens not two weeks later? I leave work in the early evening, get all suited up, and hit the "start" button, and absolutely nothing happens. Deader then a door-nail. Followed by a $37 taxi ride home, as Orange County is too good for public transit.

The next day I call Fullerton Harley-Davidson for some advice, and they suggest checking the cables and bolts attached to the battery, as Sportsters vibrate a lot and have a reputation for "shaking things loose". Sure enough, a little messing around with wrenches and bolts has the thing running again. I take it to the Fullerton dealer immediately. They take it all apart and clean it up.....apparently the electrical system is badly corroded (something else Sportsters are apparently susceptable to). I drive away another $39 lighter.

Guess what happens one week later? I notice oil spots on the left leg of my pants. Apparently the front cylinder has now sprung an oil leak. Have I mentioned that this is an almost new bike with only eight thousand miles on it!!!!

I no longer refer to this bike as just a Harley.....on a good day, I use the word "junk". You don't want to know what I say on a bad day.