I know what you mean about the pride of accomplishment I get that with my bike.
I had to research the history of them dig around for specks, find parts (took 4 bikes to make 1) and then hope it works. With no help from the local bike shop. (needle bearings are such fun )
Pushing the motor to the max and your own nerve knowing you are only on a bike that you built from the dregs behind a goodwill store.

Running down the road to get some one their heart meds. during the feeder showers of Katrina and get back to where you are bivouacked when even the cop cars have taken shelter trees power lines and houses blocking the roads thank God I had my bike and it had a strong motor.

After the storm my half breed bike was running errands for the cops bringing chain saws here water there. checking on some of the older folks. Going places a motorcycle or scooter could not at a pace where if I had to peddle would not have gotten 1/2 done.

I know the felling of oneness with nature on a bike I know the fear of a small dog running up you do not want to hurt it but you do not want to hurt yourself (that is y I carry a bright orange water pistol with ammonia water it is cheep and will not hurt u or the dog)

I know the pride of accomplishment ....but I think I will lurk on the site. Just to pick up some knowledge on the bikes and see what is coming down the pike as far as new toys and equipment.

C ya