The bike he was commenting on. I believe the price was about $10k.
He went on to say that he use to race VL's, still had a few plus a garage full of VL parts. He then said there was a picture of him taking a jump in Harry Sucher's The Milwaukee Marvel book. I told him I had the book and knew the photo he spoke of. We talked briefly and he handed me a card with his contact info.
Of course I knew this photo... It's so cool. The year stated is likely incorrect. There are some other similar jump photos in the book on the same course and by the same photographer, but dated 1948. Also, the rear wheel is a 16" and they weren't available until the '40s.
I should have struck when the iron was hot. As time passed, I felt more uncomfortable about contacting an elderly man that I really didn't know.
I'd guess he has long since passed and I blew a unique opportunity to learn some M/C history first hand. Still, it was nice to have met and chat with one of M/C's old timers.
Anybody out there who knew Don Fera, know what happened to him, or his bikes?
3 comments:
Well shut my mouth!
A big reason for the post was for others to learn from my mistake.
Here's another pic of Don Fera:
http://theselvedgeyard.wordpress.com/2010/10/13/photography-of-bob-magill-epic-images-of-american-motorcycling/
I knew and adored Don and Marge Fera; my dad was a friend since way back, along with Homer Drown (he's in another pic you have on your blog). Sadly, Don has passed away and I lost touch with that group several years ago. It's too bad you never contacted him, I'm sure he would have welcomed the chance to chat. He was so gregarious and had so many funny stories; just a great guy.
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