Rolf was one of the most mechanically inclined people I've met. He worked on Porsche racing cars, such as the 917's before becoming involved in training mechanics for Vespa. He continued working on Vespas long into his "retirement."
As far as Vespa's, he seemed to have a mixture of make it better and faster if it can run reliably. His scooters were kept in a manner that an experienced mechanic would keep them. The black GTS he had just before the white one, had a largely stock motor, stock variator, but with Butbo shocks, and adjustable levers, and black powdercoat everywhere, and a custom spare-tire mount likely for the Cannonball.
I remember when Rolf was either helping out or working on a racing scooter, perhaps for some event in San Francisco, when he got a mad scientist gleam in his eye, on the thought of adding a turbo to it.
Rolf was the kind of person who had his own viewpoint, but wouldn't bicker it. In the years I knew him, I don't think we had a single argument. He was the kind of person who would help you in the last few weeks of his life.
Myself and a lot of people knew Rolf from OVC Coffee; we will miss him. My heart goes out to his Brother and his Friends, who I am appreciated of is his later days, for being supportive and attentive.
Thanks.
Last edited by BrendaEM on Tue, 31 May 2016 17:20:36 +0000; edited 1 time