What’s in the Air, Bud? There are many Europeans who believe Christopher Columbus was not the first explorer to cross the mighty Atlantic in search of the New World. More specifically, a Swedish explorer named Thor Heyerdahl certainly thought so. He built a raft — called Kon-Tiki — back in 1947 to disprove the Columbus theory by using only materials and technologies that would have been available only during the 1300s and 1400s — trying to show that explorers could have accomplished the feat centuries earlier. Not only did Thor succeed in his 4,300-mile expedition to the Polynesian islands and back to Sweden, but his adventure became a bestselling book and an Academy Award-winning documentary. His story inspired many people, including a young Argentinian man named George Arrues. Like many people around the world, Arrues was determined to migrate to the “new world,” but he had limited resources. Hitching a ride aboard an aging plane, he headed toward America. En route, the plane had mechanical difficulties and was forced to make an emergency landing. Although the passengers were all lucky to be alive, their dreams of living a better life in the “new world” seemed to descend like the aging plane they had depended on. Still, one person aboard that flight was determined not to be denied. Arrues was a mechanic and a machinist; more specifically, his specialty was boring engine cylinders, whether it is was a lawn mower, a motorcycle, a car, truck or an airplane. Arrues knew motors like the back of his hand. So, as the rest of the passengers sulked, Arrues, who was inspired by Heyerdahl and the Kon-Tiki, went to work and fixed the mechanical problem with just the limited resources at his disposal. All the passengers and crew were delighted and inspired by Arrues’ ambition as the plane took off from the makeshift runway toward the “new world.” Arrues caught wind of a job opening running the service department at the new Honda Motorcycle Shop in Pacific Beach in 1965. He quickly secured the position, settled into life here and had a son, Alex, in 1968. With a difference of opinion with his new boss, Arrues left Honda and opened up a Kawasaki dealership just up the street on Garnet Avenue and named it — what else? — Kon-Tiki Motorcycles. I’ve been riding a street bike since I turned 16. There’s nothing like the feeling of twisting the throttle of an iron horse and cruising down the highway. I’ve been going to Kon-Tiki Motorcycles for parts, service and apparel for 20 years. George was always very kind and knowledgeable and gave superior service. Now, Alex has taken over helm at Kon-Tiki. It wasn’t until recently that I asked Alex what Kon-Tiki meant, and I’m glad I did. I always love hearing wonderful stories about the wonderful people who live in our beautiful seaside town, our beloved Pacific Beach. — Kevin Di Cicco is the owner of Buddy the dog, who is best known for his roles in the long string of “Air Bud” movies and his ball-playing skills showcased on popular television shows. For booking inquiries, contact www.airbud.com.
