Randy (Zook) and I departed on the much anticipated trip to Motor Trike on 20 Nov. We arrived in Henderson, Tx early in the am on 21 Nov. We checked in and got some sleep. Motor Trike was only a few minutes from there and we arrived about 10 am that morning. It is located way out in the country on what they call a farm to market road. That is what the FM stands for in their address.
It is good to know somebody like Randy when visiting Motor Trike as we were able to navigate around the entire complex as though we were officials on business.I was taken on a tour of the Stallion assembly plant by Susie while Randy checked into some kits we were picking up. I had plenty of time to ask questions, but no pictures allowed in this area. I was able to take pictures in other areas though. I was curious about the latest vin numbers coming off the line. Well, #511 was just being born while I was there. The body, which has the number taped to it, was in the beginning stages going down the line. I noticed on a white board on the wall that they were rolling 2 units a day. Mine #444 had rolled on 13 Oct. I was impressed with how this machine is assembled with quality hardware. Here one gets a better look of the workings of it than just raising the hood.
Back in the showroom, my #444 was in the back of the room behind a number of other Stallions. I believe all the numbers there were higher than mine. Susie and Randy moved several other units out so that mine could be rolled out. Out in the parking lot Susie pointed out the new features on the latest Stallions. There is a map light right above the cup holder. The panels inside the cockpit are now plastic as opposed to fiberglass. I really could not tell the difference. One other temporary change is they were unable to get the 245/55 tires which were installed on earlier units. They have gone to 225/60 Michelin tires until the new year. They will continue to use the 225/60 tires, but they will be Goodrich after the new year. I consider it a plus to be lucky enough to get the Michelins.
Susie noticed that the air dump valve on mine was losing air when we were getting ready for a test ride. She ran it back over to the Stallion area and it was changed out in a few minutes. Then I was good to go. Susie led me down the road about 5 miles and back. The heater felt good as it was in 50's about that time.Afterward we loaded up and headed back to Florida and arrived in the wee hours of the morning. We were both whipped out, but it was a very enjoyable trip.
If you get a chance, take a trip to the Motor Trike Complex in Troup, Texas.