Mechanic north of sixty

[Yukonica]

Gents, I've been awol for over a year whilst riding and tinkering and riding some more. Hope everyone is well.
I'm scheduled mid April for a right hip replacement. Therapists suggest I shouldn't lift my knee above my hip during recovery which means, in my climate limited season, it is likely a write-off.
"Mr.Guzzi" is a 2013 Special asking for new clutch plates. Not being fool enough to think I can pull the engine on my own under the circumstances; I am considering farming out the work.
Locally I know a VW/BMW guy who I'd trust but would like to explore all other options. I've heard there is a guy in Alaska who knows the marque and does quality work. Does anyone know who this titan of twins might be? I could have the bike trailered to this shop and apparently won't be in a rush to get it back this summer.
Two thirds the way to thinking it is time to consider a hack ... Will you still respect me if I source a used Ural?

[n3303j]

I'm riding 2 Guzzi and a Ural. Guzzi just didn't cut it in the ice and snow of Massachusetts winters. My Guzzi friends still smile and offer friendly greetings.

[Yukonica]

I'm riding 2 Guzzi and a Ural. Guzzi just didn't cut it in the ice and snow of Massachusetts winters. My Guzzi friends still smile and offer friendly greetings.

And they possibly ask for a ride home when winter runs over their sedan's comfort zone? 
In the 1980's I rode a two wheeled bike through three winters in Calgary until an oncoming car refused to shift off the dry line and I high sided... oops.

I have a lot of research ahead with respect to Ural. It's like having heard of Moto Guzzi as a brand but not knowing there were roller issues on some production runs.
Nice to know I'm not painted as a pariah yet.

[n3303j]

I have a lot of research ahead with respect to Ural. It's like having heard of Moto Guzzi as a brand but not knowing there were roller issues on some production runs.
Nice to know I'm not painted as a pariah yet.

Soviet Steeds discusses reliability of the various years.
https://www.sovietsteeds.com

[Dirk_S]

I really enjoyed my 2015 Ural for the half-year that I owned it. Reverse, 2-wheel drive, parking brake…stomping your foot onto the lever just to hop into the next gear like a true ‘agricultural’ machine, being able to simply swap a wheel rather than change out a tire if one blows…

[Dave Swanson]

Two thirds the way to thinking it is time to consider a hack ... Will you still respect me if I source a used Ural?

Urals a great.  I like them so much, I own 2.  My advice is to find either a late carburetor rig - 2011 to 2013, or a 2nd generation EFI (Keihin) 2019 to present.  The parts supply to support the first gen ElectroJet EFI 2014-2018 has dried up.  And most importantly only buy a rig that has been faithfully maintained with documentation.  Ural longevity and reliability are greatly influenced by how well they are maintained. 

Also if you are looking at a 2012 to 2017 make sure the rim recall (NHTSA Recall No. 22V431) has been performed.  Ural provides the new rims, spokes, nipples, rim strips, inner tubes and labor at a dealer.  You can reuse your old or buy new tires to be installed while the recall is performed.  I would not buy a 2012 to 2017 that has not had the recall completed.  It is a hassle with long waits for parts and requires taking the rig to a Ural dealer for completion.

[ccoli]

Maybe just train one of your dogs (Bernese Mountain dog) to do the heavy lifting.
Any sidecar you choose will be fun and people will make fun of. Just do what you want and screw everyone else.