I'm a professional engineer and certified motorcycle mechanic with over 40 years of experience in and out of the powersports business. I own and operate a small, independent motorcycle/ATV/power equipment repair & service shop located in Downeast Maine (along the seacoast - beyond Bar Harbor, between Ellsworth and Machias). We're located at 56 Shop Hill Rd. in Milbridge, Maine. Open Tue - Fri 9-5, Sat 9-3, closed on Sun & Mon. 207-598-6266 shop phone. URL for website is www.downeastthunder.com and email is paul@downeastthunder.com Both American and Metric bikes are welcome.

I'm a former U.S. Marine and was honorably discharged in 1975, about six months after the fall of Saigon. I'm very proud of "my" Marine Corps and make it a point to celebrate the corps' birthday (November 10th) every year with fellow Marines. It's been awhile since I served and proudly wore the uniform, but "once a Marine, ALWAYS a Marine." Ooh Rah! I try to live life by the Marine Corps motto: Semper Fidelis (or Semper Fi for short) which means "Always Faithful" in latin.

One of my other passions is sailing on open ocean. In addition to being an engineer, I'm also a naval architect and have designed large ocean going ships, smaller workboats, yachts, and various other vessels. I started a small business many years ago called "Shoestring Shipyard" aimed at a niche market - providing boat plans I designed specifically for the first time, back yard, boat builder, along with books I wrote about how to build them step-by-step. Most of these are simple boats that most people can build in a weekend or two without any prior boat building experience. You can see pictures of boats built by my customers at www.shoestringshipyard.com

The best motorcycle in the world is the one you presently own. I have fun on any bike I happen to have to ride, regardless of make, model, size, or type. I love them all.

I'm planning a new build for my next personal bike which will be based on a 45" Harley flathead engine, coupled to a modern primary drive and transmission w/electric start. It will also have electronic ignition and a CV carburetor. The frame will be of my own design and fabrication as will all of the tin. The frame will a hardtail and the machine will feature the bobber look. I'm still thinking about the paint scheme, but my daughter told me it will have to involve flames!