Around my way, they lay oil and stone... sometimes the stone is not done right and simply doesn't adhere or it so thick that there is a couple loose inches - and always on the tighter corners... I, too, have a considerable number of years (over 30 off and on) but still couldn't prevent having to lay her down when I never thought I would either... damaged brake lever... front and rear signals... and I am going to be putting the bars on and hope the looks don't suffer too much...