Old Bike Mart - November 2014 - Preview

Recommend a friend to Old Bike Mart...

This issue is sponsored by

See page 55 for bargain subscription deals iSSue

353

www.oldbikemart.co.uk

November 2014 £2.10

The a utojumble in your armchair

Available on subscription only

Delivered by the first Saturday of every month

NEXT ISSUE: DECEMBER 6

RIGHT: Steve Thomas’s 1966 Kawasaki B87 125cc two-stroke single, complete with round Kawasaki Aircraft badges, won the coveted Best in Show award at the 21st Carole Nash Classic Motorcycle Mechanics Show at Stafford on October 18-19.

Bought as a tatty but original bike, it took three-anda-half years to get it restored, and finding the parts was “a nightmare”.

Buy, sell and browse at ’Normous Newark Autojumble *REMAINING 2014 DATES* Su ndays November 16 and December 12

Newark Showground

normousnewark.co.u k In association with

MMAGNETOS AGNETOS

Dynamos, Regulators rebuilt - guaranteed three years.

One-off components.

Genuine Celluloid covering.

Ball and roller bearings.

Gaskets to pattern or drawing.

EXHAUSTS E X H A U S T S PIPES PIPES M MAUFACTURED A U FA C T U R E D D. H. Day, Aldrans, Church Hill, Wroughton, Swindon, Wiltshire SN4 9JR. Tel: Swindon (01793) 812323 Fax: (01793) 845323 dhday31@hotmail.com

Full show report on pages 12 and 13.

STARTS HERE

KIDDERMINSTER MOTORCYCLES

s r

r

TM

60-62 Blackwell Street, Kidderminster DY10 2EE Telephone (01562) 66679 or Tel/Fax (01562) 825826 kmc4bsa@hotmail.com

SAL easylifts www.draganfly.co.uk OVER 12000 LINES!

SEE OUR MAIN AD INSIDE

ANFLY M/Cs DRAGAN

01986 894798/892826

Suppliers of all motorcycle lifting benches For details call or see our website Web: www.saluk.info E-Mail: barry@saluk.info

CALL BARRY 07973 286810 • 01697 349295

2 NEWS

November 2014

Pete’s Prattle

www.oldbikemart.co.uk email: info@oldbikemart.co.uk

Editor Pete Kelly OBMEditor@mortons.co.uk Publisher Dan Savage Group production editor Tim Hartley Designer Tracey Barton Divisional advertising sales manager David England dengland@mortons.co.uk Advertising Jo Beach jbeach@mortons.co.uk Ricky Nichols rnichols@mortons.co.uk 01507 524004 Marketing manager Charlotte Park Circulation manager Steve O’Hara Production manager Craig Lamb Publishing director Dan Savage Commercial director Nigel Hole Associate director Malcolm Wheeler Finance director Kathryn Pinder General Queries 01507 529529 (24hr ansaphone) Archive Enquiries Jane Skayman jskayman@mortons.co.uk 01507 529423 Founder Ken Hallworth OLD BIKE MART (ISSN:1756-9494) is published monthly by Mortons Media Group Ltd, PO Box 99, Horncastle, Lincolnshire LN9 6LZ UK. USA subscriptions are $48 per year from Motorsport Publications LLC, 7164 City Rd N #441, Bancroft WI 54921.

Periodical Postage is paid at Bancroft, WI and additional entries. Postmaster: Send address changes to OLD BIKE MART, c/o Motorsport Publications LLC, 7164 City Rd N #441, Bancroft WI 54921.

715-572-4595 chris@classicbikebooks.com PUBLISHED BY

Independent publisher since 1885

PRINTED BY

01507 523456

What a coincidence that the latest road safety Think! campaign should involve a serious collision between a car and a tractor on a dangerous country road. Last month’s Muc-Off Star Letter was on the same theme, involving a group of riders, a line of stationary vehicles and a tractor that was indicating right to turn into a farmyard.

A day after the last issue of OBM went to press, I witnessed a frightening ‘near miss’ in which two blameless riders narrowly avoided becoming involved in a head-on collision with a car that was overtaking a tractor and trailer on a blind bend.

I know what it’s like to be hit head-on by a car coming from the opposite direction on the wrong side of the road – and it hurts.

I was riding a 600cc BMW flat twin when the accident happened more than 40 years ago. The car driver, who was prosecuted for driving without due care and attention, had made the simple error of believing he was on a oneway exit from a dual carriageway, whereas at the point of impact it was clearly two-way.

Heeled over to the left, I just managed to get the bike into the gutter, but nothing could prevent the inevitable. There was an almighty bang, I felt myself being lofted through the air, and landed half-way down an embankment with my right leg slashed from top to bottom.

My kneecap, which had been pinned together six years earlier after a car U-turned across my path, was completely exposed,

OBM January deadlines ■ Will OBM advertisers please note that the deadline for our January issue, which comes out in December, will be December 11 – only a few days after the December issue is published on the 6th of that month.

New venue decided for Boxing Day bike meet

■ Jeremy Retford of the South Cotswold VMCC, tells us that the traditional Boxing Day lunchtime meeting point of the Tipputs Inn pub near Nailsworth has had to change, because this has now become an old people’s home.

The new venue for this informal gathering will be the Whitminster Inn, on the A38 in Whitminster (GL2 7NY) just north of the M5 J13 and the A419, approximately four miles south of Gloucester.

The pub offers lots of hard standing for vehicles. Hot and cold beverages, a burger van and other food will also be available. A warm welcome is extended to all motorcyclists, clubs or individuals as well as anyone interested in bikes new and old.

screws and all – yet amazingly, apart from my right wrist, no bones were broken. I was, however, black and blue for weeks with a long line of stitches resembling Clapham Junction beneath the plaster casing that had to be applied.

Such was the ferocity of the impact that the BMW’s right-hand pot was bent backwards almost 90º, and the car’s offside back door was ripped off and lay crumpled in the middle of the road.

All this was on my mind when I came up behind the slow-moving tractor and trailer a few weeks ago, with a saloon car following closely behind. Even before the car started to overtake, I could see from above the hedges the helmets of two motorcyclists approaching from the opposite direction.

With his overtaking manoeuvre almost complete, the car driver suddenly saw them and swerved violently in front of the tractor to avoid them, but it was oh, so close, and I know exactly the splitsecond terror they must have felt.

Take care until next time.

Prescott Bike Festival will become a two-day event One of the most eagerly anticipated springtime events is the Prescott Bike Festival at the Prescott Hill Climb venue at Gotherington, near Cheltenham.

The event includes large displays of historic, modern and racing motorcycles as well as many trade and club stands, demonstration areas and celebrity appearances.

Next year, on April 11-12, it is being expanded into a two-day meeting with a new Beer and Bands event on the Saturday featuring a quality selection of beers, ciders and ales along with non-stop bands and musicians from 11am until 11pm, and free overnight camping for weekend ticket holders.

As beer and track riding do not mix,

there will be no track action until the following day, for which a limited number of advance tickets are available to ride the hill.

Four-times World Superbike champion Carl Fogarty will be promoting his new range of Foggy merchandise at the Oily Rag Clothing stand and making special appearances during the lunch break.

With proceeds going to the organising charities, the Nationwide Association of Blood Bikes and Severn Freewheelers, an attendance of more than 5000 is expected.

Gates open at 11am on the Saturday, but there’s an earlier start on the Sunday, when they’ll open at 8.30am with track events starting an hour later. The festival will close at 5pm.

NEWS 3

November 2014

REWARD OFFER AS CUB STOLEN Owner puts up £500 for Tiger’s safe return after Wendover theft

I

n an issue containing an It’s Our Club feature about the Triumph Terrier and Tiger Cub Club (page 55) it’s sad to report the theft of Nigel Eastwood’s 1954 T20 plunger model, registered 158 YUK. Nigel has already posted an advertisement on eBay offering a £500 reward for the safe return of his bike,

which carries the frame number 17384 and engine number T12017384.

He says the Cub, stolen from a lockup in Wendover on October 1, has a reconditioned original Amal carb and the right-hand fork seal weeps a bit.

He can be contacted on 01296 614793, 07917 062611 or at nigel@redrosecars.com

This picture of Nigel Eastwood’s plunger Tiger Cub was taken a year ago.

This is the Velocette that was stolen in the Sunderland burglary on October 2.

Thieves make off with 93-year-old’s Velocette Police are appealing for help after thieves stole a Velocette being restored by a 93-year-old from Sunderland.

OBM reader Fred Readman contacted us about the theft which happened on October 2.

Northumbria Police’s Insp Tony Carty said: “I urge anyone with information about where the bike might be, or any information that can help with our enquiries, to get in contact. The owner would very much like it returned.

“A lawn mower and petrol strimmer were also taken, and burglars should be warned we are doing everything we can to stop their offending and taking action against them to make sure they’re put before the courts.”

OBM readers should take a careful look at the accompanying picture (top) in case they get any suspicious offers or spot it at an autojumble.

Anyone with information should ring Northumbria Police on 101 ext 69191 quoting ref 055231D/14. They can also call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.

BMF chairman talks of a ‘re-energised’ group

Banishing those winter blues with three great bike shows

A “new beginning” has been hinted at for Britain’s largest motorcycling organisation, the British Motorcyclists’ Federation (BMF).

Chairman Roger Ellis told the group’s annual meeting in Rugby on October 11 that this year had “not been without issues – from staffing to the BMF Shows”.

However, he added: “With the appointment of our new government relations executive Graeme Hay, and the positive reaction to proposed changes in the BMF Show format, we look forward to 2015.”

Graeme gave a presentation on issues facing motorcyclists, such as self-driving cars, lorry cab visibility and the standard of road dressings.

“The technical and legislative changes faced by motorcyclists are today greater than ever,” he said, “but the BMF has become reenergised and has been transformed into a financially-sustainable organisation that’s better informed, better connected and more capable of representing riders’ views in all the places that really matter.”

To find out more about the BMF, visit its www.bmf.co.uk website.

Classic Bike Shows will be adding plenty of warmth to the cold, miserable months of January and February with three great bike events.

The first show to banish those winter blues will be the Carole Nash Classic Bike Guide Winter Classic at the Newark Showground, Lincoln Road, Winthorpe, Newark NG24 2NY, with John Reynolds as guest of honour.

Held over the weekend of January 3-4, there will be lots of private entries, bike and scooter clubs, and dealers have already booked their spaces. The opening times are 9am-5pm Saturday, 9am-4pm Sunday.

Pre-booked visitor tickets cost £7 adults one day, £14 two days with children under 12 getting in for free. Onthe-day adult tickets will cost £9.

Just over a month later, on February 7-8, comes the 35th Carole Nash Bristol Classic MotorCycle Show at the Bath & West Showground, Shepton Mallet BA4 6QN, and again the entries are coming in thick and fast.

Opening times are 10am-5pm both days, and pre-booked visitor tickets cost £10 adults, £8 seniors and £3 children under 12, with two-day tickets costing £20, £16 and £6 respectively.

On-the-day tickets will cost £12, £10 and £4. There is also a £30 weekend camping charge.

On February 21-22, Britain’s leading classic dirt bike show will be stepping up a gear as part of the Mortons stable of motorcycle events and magazines.

The Putoline Telford Twin Shock Classic & Road Racing Show, known to regular visitors as ‘Wrighty’s Show’, is joining forces with other big Mortons events such as the International Dirt Bike Show, Stafford’s Carole Nash Classic Motorcycle Mechanics Show and Carole Nash International Classic MotorCycle Show, and Alan will be staying on to make sure that the event is bigger and better than ever.

More details of Wrighty’s Show will appear in the next issue of OBM.

Maria Costello rides again Down Under The first woman to stand on the podium on the Isle of Man was, as this issue of OBM went to press, set to enter the Barry Sheene Classic in New Zealand.

As well as her Island success, Maria Costello also appeared in the Barry Sheene Festival of Speed in Australia in March. The Hampton Downs meeting champions classic and post-classic solo racing, classic and modern sidecars, and this year’s event also celebrated women motorcycle racers from Australia and New Zealand.

“It ties in perfectly with my role as an FIM Women’s Training Camp instructor and being on the FIM Women’s Commissioner,” said Maria before she left.

After taking a fifth place in the recent 500 Classic TT, Maria was back on board Steve Kairl’s 1988 Honda RS125 and Rob Francis’ Honda VFR400 that she rode in Australia. Other rides were due to include a Manx Norton owned by Bruce Verdon of TT Industries and possibly an Aermacchi as well.

Maria Costello shows impeccable style as she corners Rob Francis’ Honda VFR400.

Photo: Ray Oxford.

want obm delivered to your door?

1 year subscriptions from £14. See page 55 for details

4

November 2014

NEWS 5

November 2014

Bikes of all shapes and sizes, including a rotary Norton just right of centre, assemble on parkland next to the Leighton Buzzard Railway.

More than 400 bikes at Leighton Buzzard event

T

he Sand and Motorcycles event, held on the park next to the Leighton Buzzard Railway in Bedfordshire, on September 28, attracted more than 400 bikes of all ages.

Built from surplus War Department Light Railways equipment, the 2ft gauge light railway opened in 1919 to transport the high-quality sand that’s still quarried in the area to the main line. After a life span of exactly 50 years,

Rollo Turner’s 500cc Panther M95 is a rare survivor of only 300 ever built, and is one of only four or so that remain on the road.

it closed in 1969 when the quarries switched to road transportation.

It was taken over by volunteers who now run it as a heritage railway, and the collection includes several locomotives and other items that actually worked on the supply lines to the First World War trenches and survived.

Among the bikes noted by John Wallis were a rare 500cc Panther M95 owned by Rollo Turner, who rode it to the event from High Wycombe.

Only 300 were built, and of the 11 or so that still exist, only four remain on the road. The recorded mileage of 60,000 could be original.

An unusual feature is the sheer number of fixing studs securing the cylinder to the crankcase.

Another bike that caught the eye was a wellrestored Velocette Venom ridden by Bryan Slingfield from Flitwick, which looked good and sounded great.

A rarely seen 1965 Villiers twin-powered DMW Deemster scooter, ex-police, which still has some of the patrol fittings, was ridden from the Heathrow area by Derek Titchmarsh, who’s had it for 20 years. The Deemster took pride of place on the DMW stand at the 1963 Earls Court Motorcycle Show.

Designed as a well-protected police patrol machine, the Villiers twin-powered DMW Deemster has become something of a rarity.

This one belongs to Derek Titchmarsh.

Rollo and WFO 366 make a great partnership.

Ridden from North Crawley, near Newport Pagnell, Terry Potter’s 1938 Norton 16H was bought as a box of bits, minus gearbox and other parts, 13 or 14 years ago, although the engine and frame did have matching numbers.

Its final restoration is a credit to Terry, who’s had it back on the road for 18 months.

Bryan Slingfield has good reason to be proud of this stunning Velocette Venom.

6 NEWS

November 2014

Iconic machines to go under the hammer at Birmingham

S

ilverstone Auctions will be putting a fine selection of classic and post-classic motorcycles under the hammer at the Classic Motorbike Show at the NEC, Birmingham, on November 15-16.

Estimated at between £20,000 and £24,000, a 1989 Honda VFR 750 RC30 tops the list. Engine and frame numbers are correct, and the odometer shows fewer than 12,000km (7460 miles).

Others coming up include a newly-restored 1954 BSA Gold Star (£12,000-£14,000), a 1962 Velocette Venom (£8000-£9000) and a 1967 Greeves Silverstone RES (£4000-£5000).

Wells run raises £2000 for air ambulance Marshals and helpers from this year’s Tortoise and Hare Run joined members of the Wells Classic Motorcycle Club for their annual meeting on Saturday, October 18.

The event raised £2000 for the Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance and this was handed over to representatives Anita Townsend and Colin. Next year’s run takes place on June 7.

BSA ‘M’ clutch basket from Burton Bike Bits

In superb clubman trim, this Velocette Venom looks as sleek and purposeful as when it was built in 1962.

Estimated sale price is £8000 plus.

Recently restored, this 1954 BSA Gold Star has a £12,000 to £14,000 estimate.

Burton Bike Bits has announced a new clutch/chainwheel basket for the 42-tooth Simplex single-speed clutch.

Suitable for circa 1937-58 BSA ‘M’ models (M20, M21, M21AA, M22 and M23 Empire Star, BSA part number 66-3809). More related items will be added in due course. For full details and buying online, visit http://bit.ly/10mGFhm

This is the much-needed replacement clutch basket being produced

by Burton Bike Bits for a whole range of circa 1937-58 BSA ‘M’ models.

Moidart Peninsula Run date fixed

Still a handy mount for classic racing, this 1967 Greeves Silverstone RES is hoping to raise up to £5000.

One of the all-time road race classics, this 1989 Honda RC30 will top the bidding scale.

Diary Dates NOVEMBER 2014 1-2

1

2

3 4 7 8

9

9

9 9

12

The Footman James Classic Vehicle Restoration Show, Bath & West Showground, Shepton Mallet BA4 6QN. www.bccsl.co.uk Rufforth Park Autojumble. Rufforth Park, Wetherby Road, Rufforth, York YO23 3QH. 07713 164848. www.rufforthautojumble.com Penrith Autojumble, Penrith Auction Mart, Skirsgill, Penrith, Cumbria CA11 0DN. Ian Sherrard 07836 331324 (day) or 01772 323654 (6pm-8pm) NOVEMBER ISSUE OF REALCLASSIC Highland Classic MCC, Club Meeting. www.highlandclassicmotorcycleclub.org.uk DECEMBER ISSUE OF THE CLASSIC MOTORCYCLE Wetherby Autojumble, Wetherby Racecourse (jct 46 A1M).

07931 770494.

Email: andy@ukmotorbikehire.co.uk A5 Autojumble, Oswestry Showground, Park Hall, Whittington Road, Oswestry SY11 4AS. 01978 820828 or 07858 207543 Garstang Autojumble, Hamilton House (on A586 off A6), Garstang, Preston PR3 0TB. Ian Sherrard 07836 331324 (day) or 01772 323654 (6pm-8pm) LE Velo (Lancs & S Lakes), 10am, Kirklands (Remembrance Day & Autojumble). 01772 782516.

Chelmsford Bike Jumble, Boreham Village Hall, Main Road, Boreham, Chelmsford, Essex CM3 3JD. 02082 526831; mobile 07968 080990 www.woodclass.com The Scottish Classic Motorcycle Club (SCMC) meets at 7.30pm at Ye Olde Hotel, Leuchars, Fife.

John Hyman 01382 643083

14-16 Lancaster Insurance Classic Motor Show, NEC, Birmingham. www.necclassicmotorshow.com 15 Scorton Giant Auto/Bike Jumble, North Yorkshire Events Centre DL10 6EH. Bert 07909 904705.

16 ’Normous Newark, Newark Showground, Notts NG24 2NY. 01507 529470. www.newarkautojumble.co.uk 16 Ledbury Motor Cycle Club Off Road Motorcycle Autojumble, Bromesberrow Heath Village Hall, near Ledbury HR8 1RZ. Sally Palmer 01432 342642/ 07968 649327. Email: sallypalmer226@aol.com 19 DECEMBER ISSUE OF CLASSIC MOTORCYCLE MECHANICS 20 CLASSIC DIRT BIKE ISSUE 33 20 LE Velo (Lancs & S Lakes), 11 for 12, Lancs Infantry Museum, Fulwood Barracks. 01772 782516 22 LE Velo Northampton gathering, noon, Brampton Halt, Chapel Brampton, NN6 8BA. 01604 499858 23 16th Malvern Drive-In Classic Car & Bike Autojumble, The Three Counties Showground, Malvern, Worcs WR13 6NW. 01484 667776. www.classicshows.org 23 Huddersfield Autojumble. Phoenix Fairs.

Jeff Needham 01773 819154 or 07795 505388 www.phoenixfairs.jimdo.com 26 DECEMBER ISSUE OF CLASSIC BIKE GUIDE 29 Lincs BTSC Annual Dinner.

Contact Bob or Maureen 01526 345720 29 Lincoln Autojumble, Hangar number one, Hemswell DN21 5TJ. 07816 291544 www.lincolnautojumble.com 30 Highland Classic MCC Club Run (optional) – Inverness to Nairn. www.highlandclassicmotorcycleclub.org.uk 30 LE Velo (Lancs & S Lakes), 11 for 12, Brinscall, near Chorley. 01772 782516

FOR A FULL LIST OF DIARY DATES VISIT WWW.OLDBIKEMART.CO.UK

YOUR EVENT shOUld bE iN hERE!

OBM is anxious to learn all about your motorcycle related events.

Contact us at OBM, Mortons Media Ltd, Diary Listings, PO Box 99, Horncastle, Lincolnshire LN9 6LZ or log on to www.classicbikersclub.com/pages/send-us-your-event Events organisers – please make sure that your entry has contact details and let us have your entries by the advertising deadline (see page 2 for details).

It is advisable to telephone the event organiser before setting out on your journey as we cannot be held responsible for any inaccuracies or changes in event details.

The sixth Moidart Peninsula Classic Motorcycle Road Run, open to pre-1979 motorcycles, will take place at Kinlochleven on Thursday, April 30, 2015.

Organisers Andrew Johnstone, John McCrink and Bob Pearson have seen the event grow in popularity over the years, with more and more enthusiasts keen to follow what was for several decades the Thursday route of the Scottish Six Days Trial.

The run is the prelude to a fantastic weekend of motorcycling in and around Kinlochleven, with the main event, the world-famous Pre ’65 Scottish Two-Day Trial

taking place on the Friday and Saturday.

Starting and finishing in Kinlochleven, with a lunch stop at Strontian, the Moidart Run covers around 120 miles of awe-inspiring landscape, and includes the short Corran Ferry crossing.

Entry forms for this warm and friendly event are available from johnmccrink@googlemail.com or by sending a large stamped, addressed envelope to John McCrink, Braeside Cottage, Grange Road, North Berwick EH39 4QT. Limited to 80 riders, entries close on February 28.

November 2014

7

8 NEWS

November 2014

Those were the days!

R

esponding to Geoff Kelly’s appeal for items to auction on behalf of the TT Riders’ Association at an evening with the Padgett Racing Team and other road racing stars at the Parr Hall, Warrington, on Friday, December 5, Colin Rider has sent a signed photograph of Les Graham racing an MV Agusta in the 1950s.

Colin also found some old family motorcycling snapshots that once

belonged to his uncle, an avid TT fan, and Geoff has passed them on for OBM readers to enjoy.

We’re always delighted to publish pictures like these, showing vintage and classic machines in their heyday, for they are always full of interest and, for all we know, some of the motorcycles seen might well still be around.

Last year’s TTRA fundraiser

Forget your posh panniers – this was the only way to go camping in those golden prewar motorcycling years. Colin Rider’s late uncle, Sam Whitmore, bought this ex-racing girder-fork KTT Velocette on the Isle of Man, rode it home, fitted lights, and used it on the road for some time.

During their frequent Isle of Man holidays, Sam and Mabel Whitmore often stayed at a farm at the top of Cronk-y-Voddy – and here they make friends with one of the woolly residents.

netted no less than £14,000, and tickets for this unforgettable night out are still available from Pyramid and Parr Hall, Palmyra Square, Cultural Quarter, Warrington WA1 1BL (01925 442959 or www.pyramidparrhall.com).

Doors open at 6pm, and any readers wishing to donate items for the accompanying auction can email Geoff at geoffkelly@ btinternet.com

Sam’s wife Mabel poses on the KTT. The separate passenger seat was right over the solid rear end – and just look at that headlight!

Much later in life, Sam bought this new Ariel Square Four (which apparently is still registered) from Bill Webster’s dealership in Crewe, Cheshire. Liverpoolborn, Bill eventually sold up to Kings of Oxford, then set up Italian Imports to bring Aermacchi racing bikes into the country. He sponsored many top riders, including Stuart Graham in his early days. Sadly Bill died of a heart attack at Mallory Park in 1963.

This signed photo of Les Graham on the MV Agusta will be auctioned at the big Friends of the TT Riders’ Association event in Warrington on Friday, December 5.

It will be a brilliant way to spend a winter’s evening, tickets are still available — and Old Bike Mart will be there.

These two Triumph Tiger 100s belonged to Sam Whitmore and his mate, and both had twin-carburettor conversions.

Hands up who knows where this location is! With his Triumph parked by the lighthouse at Port St Mary, Isle of Man, Sam has a look over the sea wall.

November 2014

NEWS 9

‘Modernised retro’ cylinders from the USA Bruce Argetsinger, the racing owner of Connecticut’s Enfield Racing, has acquired cylinder casting patterns for UL and K/KR Harley-Davidsons from S&S Cycle Flathead Power.

The new cylinders blend into Enfield’s line of modernised retro Harley, Indian, Royal Enfield and Triumph engine parts.

Enfield Racing updates old engine parts with modern design, superior metallurgy and CNC machining technology to handle the stress of racing in vintage classes, resulting in low stress road use and extra power.

Externally the UL/K and KR cylinders appear original with the same shape, fin count and stocklike markings, and all parts are made in the USA. Design improvements include tapered

exhaust ports for better exhaust pipe retention, and grey iron metallurgy for higher thermal conductivity along with better strength and durability.

“Rebuilding vintage motorcycles with original components made in the 1930s, 40s and 50s can bring unwanted reliability issues,” argues Bruce.

The 80in UL cylinders fit 193741 UL 80in engines and 1937-48 UL 74in engines upgraded to 80in.

Enfield’s KR race-style cam lobes will fit the UL. The K and KR cylinders fit 1952-69 models, and the firm also makes 356-T6 heattreated aluminium alloy cases and cam covers for UL 80in engines.

Enfield Racing, 21 West End Avenue, Branfort, CT 06405. 203483-1420. For more information visit www.enfieldracing.com

Bruce Argetsinger shows off a pair of the modernised retro cylinders to fit UL and KR Harley-Davidsons.

Test your own booze breath with new gizmo

Handy and accurate, breathalysers such as the Alcosense Lite can save your licence – but far more importantly your own and other people’s lives.

While most sensible motorcyclists stick to tea or coffee when out on the road, the temptation to have ‘a proper drink’ is never far away.

If you are persuaded, and go over the limit, the consequences both in terms of serious accidents, injuries and compensation claims, as well as having your licence taken away, can be catastrophic.

Remember too that it’s also quite possible to remain over the limit well into the ‘morning after’, so getting on your bike to go to work can end up equally disastrously.

The only way to make sure you’re fit to ride (remembering that even staying below the limit can impair judgement) is to use an accurate breathalyser before riding or driving anywhere, and Oxford Products is now selling a range of Alcosense alcohol meters to do exactly that.

To find out more, visit your Oxford dealer or try visiting info@oxprod.com Oxford Products Ltd, De Havilland Way, Range Road, Witney OX29 0YA

10 NEWS

November 2014

Entries invited for Sunbeam MCC’s 76th Pioneer Run T he Sunbeam Motor Cycle Club is inviting entries for its 76th Pioneer Run, which will start from Tattenham Corner, Epsom Downs, at 8am on Sunday, March 22.

Some 70 entries have been received already, mostly from riders hoping for a reasonably early start but including machines from Australia and Bermuda.

Founded in 1924, the club promoted the first Pioneer Run to Brighton in 1930, and 77 riders took part. The total slowly increased until 1938, but the Second World War and further fuel rationing led to its cancellation for several years. The 2001 run was also cancelled because of the nationwide foot and mouth outbreak, and the 2013 event was hit by severe weather.

Run under ACU permit, the historic event always attracts a huge gathering or pre-1915 solos, sidecars, tricycles and forecars. Last year’s event attracted 386 entries, and more are expected next year.

Two Leon Bollee tricycles are raring to go at the start of a Pioneer Run on Epsom Downs.

With long upswept handlebars offering a totally upright riding position, B Marsh goes by on a 1913 Triumph.

After being flagged off by the mayor of Epsom and Jewell, riders will follow a 47 mile route following the A217 through Reigate to join the A23 at Gatwick, then taking a more leisurely route to Hand Cross, Cowfold and Henfield to rejoin the A23 after Pyecombe Hill and on to Brighton, where the first riders are expected at around 10am.

Awards, including one for the team of three riders (one from each class) amassing the greatest number of years by counting the ages of both riders and machines, will be presented by the mayor of Brighton and Hove.

Rare three-wheelers like this splendid 1914 Morgan driven by C Sermon make the Pioneer Run such an unmissable event.

Offering stability and comfort, this superb 1910 AC Sociable is driven by D Light.

All the new bikes – and shows galore – at NEC’s Motorcycle Live Four halls will be crammed with all the latest motorcycles, parts and riding gear at Motorcycle Live at Birmingham’s National Exhibition Centre from November 22-30.

It will also feature exciting live shows along with top entertainment from hosts Steve Parrish and James Whitham.

The Crank’d stunt show will return for a second year, featuring stars from motorcycle trials, mini-bike FMX and BMX over an indoor arena of dirt ramps, jump boxes, high jumps and flatbed sections.

Free to watch, the action will take place three times each day from Monday to Friday, and four times on Saturday and Sunday.

Also free, and making a second appearance at Motorcycle Live, the Behind Bars cinema experience will feature a new behind-the-scenes documentary charting the highs and lows of life as a motorcycle racer as it follows some of the UK’s top names through the 2014 season.

The lunchtime Fast Bikes Question of Bikes quiz and fourtimes daily Inside Tracks with James Whitham, featuring riders from British and World Superbikes, MotoGP and speedway, will take place on the

Blackhorse Stage in the British Eurosport Entertainment Zone.

Top prizes will be offered in show favourites such as the Dunlop Man of Steel, British Eurosport Memory Game and Oxford Products Dress/Undress challenge.

The industry-backed Get On campaign will be giving free 20 minute tester sessions on a 125cc scooter or motorcycle in a private indoor area with expert tuition. Thousands of visitors have had a go over the last few years, with many going on to gain their full motorcycle licence.

Younger visitors can try the Kiddimoto Children’s Fun Track for two to 12-year-olds; Honda’s My First Licence for five to 11year-olds; the Arenacross Youth MX Experience; Try a Kuberg Electric Bike for five to 12-yearolds and Silverstone’s Rookie Rides for 11 to 16-year-olds.

Advance tickets cost £17 adults, £11 seniors and £7 children 11-16. Those aged 10 and under, accompanied by an adult, go free. There’s also a £20 advance ticket that includes show entry plus a pack of three Oxford Comfy neck warmers worth £15.

To book, call 0844 581 2345 or visit www.motorcyclelive.co.uk

The Pioneer Run is sponsored by Bonhams Auctioneers, The National Motorcycle Museum, Classic MotorCycle magazine and Carole Nash Insurance.

Regulations and entry forms are available from the club’s website, www.sunbeammcc.co.uk

During the 2011 Pioneer Run, F Mace and passenger take a right-hander on a 1912 Clyno outfit.

Date fixed for Five Valleys spring Motorcycle Run The Salisbury Motorcycle & Light Car Club’s first charity fundraising event next year will be the Five Valleys Motorcycle Run on Sunday, April 12.

Starting from Salisbury Livestock Market at 11am, riders will cover around 90 miles of country roads in Wiltshire and Dorset.

Refreshments will be available at the start, and to illustrate the leisurely nature of the run, there will be a lunchtime pub stop with a skittle alley, followed by a tea stop later in the afternoon. The club’s chosen charity will recieve £1 from each entry fee. Signing on will be from 9.30am, and to help the organisers, early entry will be appreciated.

Entry forms can be obtained by emailing publicity@salisburymotorcycleandlightcarclub.co.uk or by phoning run organiser Mike on 01725 511131.

Rounding off a year of riding events at London’s Ace Cafe The 100th anniversary of the First World War will bring added significance to the Poppy Day Parade and Service at London’s Ace Cafe on Sunday, November 9, which will also feature a military vehicle gathering.

There will be a Super Moto and Scramblers Day outside the cafe on November 16, an Ariel Bike Day on November 23 and a straightforward, Bike Day on November 30.

December will be full of festive cheer, with the Ace Cafe

Club Day Christmas Meet on December 7, followed by a Christmas Toy Run at 10.30am on the 14th.

On December 21, a Paws ‘n’ Claws Pet Food Run to Mayhew Animal Home at 10.30am will be followed by a Christmas carol service at 7pm.

Boxing Day will bring the traditional Cold Turkey Meet at 10am; there will be a Bike Day on December 28 and, of course, a New Year’s Eve party starting at 9pm on the 31st.

November 2014

11

12 NEWS

November 2014

Vettel surprise at Stafford’s big show

Bike enthusiast and top F1 performer Sebastian Vettel enjoys his visit to the Classic Motorcycle Mechanics Show.

Pete Kelly reports from another great autumn spectacular at the Staffordshire County Showground.

A

Chris Hurst took the best European award for this gorgeous 1958 125cc Bianchi Benina which he has restored over the last two years.

The photographer is reflected in the chromed fuel tank of Steve Thomas’s 1966 125cc Kawasaki B8-T two-stroke single which won the best in show award. It took three and a half years to restore, and finding spare parts has been a nightmare. During the Second World War, Kawasaki produced several military aircraft including the Ki-45 Toryu (Dragon Slayer) and Ki-61 Hien (Flying Swallow), hence the ‘Kawasaki Aircraft’ tank badge.

surprise visitor to the 21st Carole Nash Classic Motorcycle Mechanics Show over the weekend of October 18-19 was bike enthusiast and four-times Formula 1 world champion Sebastian Vettel, who dropped in on the Sunday to bid on items in the big Bonhams Autumn Stafford Sale.

The show was further enlivened by special appearances from World Superbike legends Pierfrancesco Chili and Carl Fogarty. Chili said: “It was in England that I was first given the name Frankie, and I put it on my leathers straight away – I loved it! I’ve always felt a special connection with the British fans, and it’s such a fantastic experience to come to the show and meet everyone.”

The October event celebrates the best machines from the 1960s to the present day, and always has a strong representation of Japanese motorcycles. One of these won the best in show award, a rare and stunning 1966 Kawasaki B8-T twostroke single, complete with round ‘Kawasaki Aircraft’ tank badges.

Many other rewards and rosettes showered Japanese club and

individual entries, the Yamaha Classic Club picking up the gong for the best club stand and the Kettle Club, for Suzuki GT750 threecylinder water-cooled two-strokes, taking second best. As usual, the Vintage Japanese Motorcycle Club put on a breathtaking classic display, and on the CBX Riders’ Club stand, which picked up ‘highly commended’ rosettes, a Sponson CBX Turbo belonging to Steve Golding and believed to be the only one left, took pride of place.

Flying Merkel

In a Bonhams sale that again topped the £1 million mark, the eye-opener was a Flying Merkel V-twin which achieved no less than £104,540 against a pre-sale estimate of £50,000-£70,000. A 1913 41⁄4hp BSA owned by the same family since 1958 went for virtually three times its £7000 top estimate when the hammer fell at £20,700.

The demand for British-engineered machines remained high, with a 1951 998cc Vincent C-Series Rapide fetching £32,200, a 1951 AJS 7R beating top estimate at £21,275 and a

Boiling over with happiness, members of The Kettle Club for Suzuki GT750 two-stroke triples celebrate their second best club stand prize

Visitors showed a keen interest in the new Norton line-up from Castle Donington, including a Commando 961SE with special controls for war veteran Rob Maxwell, who has a prosthetic right arm and is deeply involved in the Let’s Do rehabilitation scheme for injured ex-servicemen. The £26,500 Domiracer number 1 was also on show, and a production version is now planned. From left are Mark Pinfold, Rob, John Lees and Henry Rogerson.

Two of the most cheerful people in road racing come together as Steve Plater interviews special show guest Frankie Chili.

1947 998cc Vincent Rapide project going for £17,825.

With all proceeds going towards the NSPCC, seven machines kindly put up for sale by Graham Coxon, lead guitarist with Britpop band Blur, generated just short of £25,000 – a 1968 649cc Triumph TR6 Trophy, 2002 499cc BSA Gold Star SR500, 2004 790cc Triumph Bonneville, 2010 Honda CB1300S, 2008 Suzuki DL1000 V-Strom, 2007 Suzuki RV125 Van Van and 1962 200cc Vespa VBB. The sale of Barry Sheene memorabilia sparked exciting bidding, especially for the racing gear

Oh dear! The piston of this Indianmade 350cc Royal Enfield Bullet, prepared for club racing and parades

by Mark and Sue Whittaker to give aspiring riders the chance to try out the sport, encountered a little problem at a recent Cadwell Park event. The sidecar racing pair, who were on the British Historic Racing stand at Stafford, now plan to rebuild the engine using a BSA A10 piston.

that Barry once wore, with a combined total of just short of £25,000. A race-worn Arai helmet from the late 1990s, emblazoned with ‘Barry Sheene’, went to an online bidder for £2500.

On the Vintage Motor Cycle Club stand, pride of place was taken by the last British V-twin machine to compete in a Senior TT, Phil Harding’s ex-Francis J Williams/Ernie Woods 1953 Norton-JAP special that was sprinted by Ernie Woods and later road raced by Steven Woods in the 1969 Senior.

On the Italian Motorcycle Owners’ Club stand, Chris Hurst’s 1958 125cc Bianchi Benina took the best European bike award. After finding it on a farm near Milan, it took him two years to get the rare machine to its present condition, and his search for bits has been difficult. Even a trip to an autojumble at Imola turned up nothing except a pair of handgrips and a battery.

Attracting lots of attention, too, was Steve Wood’s 1955 Moto ‘B’ Spring Lasting horizontal twin (the Italian translation ‘Durati di Primavera’ sounds much better, doesn’t it?).

When one of the six Benelli brothers, Giuseppe, set up in business on his own, he called his firm Moto ‘B’, which later came Motobi.

A single-cylinder version called the Sprite was shown by Chris Yardsley, and both models were of 200cc capacity.

There was double joy for the Yamaha Classic Club, which was chosen as the best Japanese club stand and member Mike Baker’s FJ1100 was named best Yamaha in show.