Thanks for all the advice. I have taken my bike to my regular mechanic, and he says it is a little too advanced for his skills. But he has a friend who is an aeronautic engineer, and this friend is making a part that will be welded to the bike and will "fit perfectly." And because these are all friends, my cost is supposed to be minimal. They are doing it for the challenge of actually accomplishing what is needed. I hope to get the bike back within the next couple of weeks (doesn't matter since I'm in NW Indiana and can't ride right now anyway). I'll keep you posted on the success or failure.