The Not So Humble Crotch Rocket

February 13, 2020 by Oldskool

We all know them: those guys on the Japanese motorcycles, usually garishly-colored, and usually speeding down the road. They are lovingly-referred to as crotch rockets. These motorcycles elicit a wide range of reactions, ranging from “Damn, what a schmuck” to “Seriously nice ride.” So here are a couple of arguments for the opposing sides following.

The case for manly: Cars are the epitome of masculinity. Big engines, ignition, rubber and metal…it’s all present. Men have worked on making their vehicles quicker, sleeker, and basically, cooler, since the invention of the car. The crotch rocket is continuation of this never ending pursuit for speed, and it’s one of the manliest around.

Crotch rockets are the Lamborghini of motorcycles–sleek and fast. There’s nothing unmanly about the Lamborghini so why would this not transfer over to crotch rockets?

The case for not manly: Riding a motorcycle, in and of itself, is definitely manly, if not safe. When a guy chooses to ride something other than some classic bike, like for example a Triumph or Indian is where the issue lies for some. Now, not everyone can pay for or locate such awesome pieces of machinery. The focus is that if you’re embracing your masculine wish to work on a machine that will go fast and get you oily, try to focus it on something less fast and more poppy. There are a large number of affordable motorcycles out there that fit this category.

Crotch rockets are the Jägermeister to a Harley Davidson’s 12 year old scotch. They have the same end, but the former is for your indulgence, the latter is for real passion.

Improve Your Gin and Tonic

February 13, 2020 by Oldskool

A Simple, Easy (but not necessarily cheap) Trick to Improve the humble Gin and Tonic

For many years, I didn’t think I liked the humble gin and tonic. For quite a while, I thought it was the gin that I detested, but some smarter friends helped me with some really amazing gin-focused cocktails, and I very quickly moved away from the staple of vodka in favor of gin’s truly special aromatic qualities. At that point I figured I just didn’t care for standard tonic water.

The results of this investigation? One, I really like gin. Two, I like tonic. And three, I do like them together. So what was the issue with all those early drinks that sent me into disgust?

It wasn’t the brand of gin, but actually…the type of tonic water. The syrup-sweetened (and commonly available) Schweppe’s just doesn’t hit it for me. It’s far too sweet, almost like lemonade.

So, if you wish to instantly improve the gin and tonics, invest in superior tonic water. Or at the very least, try a few brands to determine which you prefer, rather than just go with what you can find at the store. Some tonics to look for: Q Tonic and Fever Tree. Or, if you’re feeling specially ambitious, you could make your own tonic syrup and mix it with plain soda. There are recipes online.

Make Your Own Tonic Water

The point being, a gin and tonic is a truly basic drink with two distinctive elements, So, don’t skimp on the tonic.

To finish the article….I do still find most tonics overly sweet, even the better brands. Try my trick of cutting the tonic with soda water. I like to do equal club soda and tonic and bulk up the aromatics with two dashes of orange or lemon bitters.

Favorite Summertime Gin and Tonic:

2 oz. London dry gin
2 oz. Fever Tree Mediterranean-style tonic water
2 oz. club soda
2 dashes Fee Brothers orange bitters
Garnish: lime wedge or cucumber slice

Best Film Car Chases Ever

January 10, 2020 by Oldskool

The famous chase scene The Bourne Identity is instantly memorable as one of the handful of occasions a little Cooper dominates in a chase (see: An Italian Guy , Job (1969), a film which would show on this list, were it longer). Matt Damon and Franka Potente, using the streets (and pathways and paths) of Paris, evading their pursuers at each and every turn, causing mayhem and destruction in their wake.

The main element is using the Mini’s advantageous small size in the narrow Parisian streets; in addition to the short wheelbase and low center of gravity, enabling impressive handbrake turns and quick maneuvering. This scene is really a memorable clip in a memorable movie.

Survival during uncertain times.

September 17, 2019 by Oldskool

While I’m not a full fledged ‘prepper’ I do believe in being ready for catastrophic events. In 2005 Hurricane Katrina demonstrated that necessity ruthlessly to the population of New Orleans.

It was the most expensive natural disaster in US history, as well as accounting for almost 2,000 lives.

It demonstrated that the Government (Federal , State and Local) are unable to help you in these situations and that you need to take care of yourself and your loved ones.

To that end I’m in the process of stocking up my cabin with supplies. I shopped around a little and in terms of taste, quality, convenience and price The Ready Store was my preferred source.

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JP Motorcycles Free Shipping Offer

March 1, 2019 by Oldskool

So for those of you that know I’m not a motorcycle guy. Don’t get me wrong I think they are awesome, fun machines. My lack of affinity is tied to the fact that a friend of mine – while riding intelligently and maturely – long story short – came off his bike at speed and has never walked since. For a man with a family that kind of risk is not an option.

But these things come my way so I’ll pass it on to those of you that do ride.

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New Wave Barbershops

February 13, 2019 by Oldskool

I found this video covering the “new wave” of barbershops that are growing across America at a pretty steady rate. Modern day men are increasingly becoming tired of going to the sterile salons. Sometimes men just want a place to get away from neutrality and get immersed with the scent of warm lather and the sensation of the straight razor on the back of their neck–things that would be tough to find in the sterile unisex salon.

This is precisely where the new barbershop revival comes into it’s own. Some barber shops, supply awesome beer, shuffleboard , and vintage chairs, all designed specifically to make men feel comfortable. Of course some women may enjoy it as well, and it’s unlikely that they would refuse women service, but these barbershops target men. In most ways, the unisex salon targets women, and men just go along. In this case, men decided to target men, but would let women attend. It’s essentially an identical business model, but approached from the opposite direction.

Men are increasingly appreciating a good shave and cut, and it’s great to see these new barbershops appearing. As a man who feels confident and happy right after a shave and haircut, I salute the efforts of these men and hope to see this trend go on.