Technical > Bike Problems/Questions

Not really a problem... classic bike query(!)

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Richard 003:
Smudge, you've just described an XBR or a GB (especially where the reliable turnkey commuting is concerned), but I take it from the fact you're posting this at all, that you want a classic. In which case I'd suggest an AJS 18S or Matchless G80. Although you'll need to get the spanners out from time to time, they make perfectly practical commuters. I was commuting 25 miles a day a couple of years ago on an AJS 16MS (350), although for 60-65 you really need the 500...

Andy M:
I'm afraid you are not describing a Bullet. Try 18 hp, 55 mph cruising speed, less with a pillion. The rest it'll do and keep doing. As a 50 mph/60 mpg commuter mine requires about 10 minutes a week tinkering and oil changes every 2000 miles.

You can raise the speed and power by fitting a 612cc kit (crank, bearings and piston/barrel), Amal carb etc. What you then have is a bike that'll cost you more that a new Bonneville but will still breakdown like a true classic. The only reason I can see to do this is if you can buy a Bullet somebody wrecked the bottom end of (pay £250) and then start with the flash bits and lots of your own time.

I'm a huge fan of my Hinckley Bonneville and it'll do what you describe. Buy on E-bay for 2 1/2 grand or brand new for 5. Old Boxers do the same and have mega amounts of parts backup and you get change for 3K and maybe tax exempt. Brit bikes that will do motorways are either going to be in the "still taxed" category (so consider Japanese, German or New Bonneville), will be stupidly expensive because they were rare (old Bonneville, Goldstar etc.) or will be tuned up everyday Bullet type 20-30 hp machines that will therefore be thrashed out if you ride them.

Sorry to rain on your parade.

What about classic Japanese? What did the CB500 replace? I know nothing about these but if they killed the Brit bikes won't they do what a Bonneville will and still be at  25 hp BSA/Enfield prices?

Andy

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