It's the end of the year, and I grow introspective. I joined CR many years ago, to learn from others, to find parts (and dispose of same), and occasionally to share some memories. I'll tell why I still participate, but really am posting to ask others about the values they see in this shared endeavor hosted with such care and love by Dale.
Most imporstnat is the sense of a community with shared interests, and largely with shared values, particularly respect for our rules of engagement (civility, integrity).
Second, there has been some factual knowledge, on time lines and parts specs that I could have gotten elsewhere only with great difficulty.
Third, some great tales of journeys geographic or along the path of life, and even the backgrounds of bikes and builders. I really value the "old guys" who have helped me so much, and our non-US contributors, from whom I've learned so much - including new ways to look at things.
Finally, some nice win-win transactions, getting the right parts to the right people and from the right people.
Funny that for me the eBay-related traffic ranks well below. Some great friendships do rank with these, but they are very specific.
What do you value, feel you give to the community, and get from it?
harvey sachs
mcLean va.