We started out the class by going around and each student sharing something they learned last week. Some topics included:
- What “running rich” and “running lean” mean
- The design of a carburetor
- A 2 stroke engine vs. a 4 stroke engine
Next, we observed a model of a 4 stroke engine (based on Henry Ford’s Model T) made out of building toys that allowed us to see each step of the process
- intake, compression, power, and exhaust
We then started to discuss the chapters of Zen and the Art of Motorcycle Maintenance we read for class
- Chapter 1: introduces the conflicting attitudes towards motorcycles held by John vs. the narrator
- themes: what is best? how do you do a good job in your work?
- motorcycle references: dealing with an engine that is choking
- Chapter 2: the narrator’s experience with mechanics messing up his bike
- themes: taking pride and ownership in your work
- motorcycle references: the role of tappets and difficulties with spark plugs
- Chapter 3: the group encounters a bad storm on the roads and the narrator discusses ghost stories
- themes: how do the scientific and fantastic interact?
- motorcycle references: how to deal with adverse conditions on the road and the role of instinct connecting you to your bike