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Sprocket
February 2021
Official Journal of
THE CLASSIC MOTORCYCLE CLUB OF VICTORIA INC.
Committee 2020 / 2021
Ian Snadden Graham Boulter John Best Rob Mullins
President Vice President Secretary Treasurer
M: 0408 132 626 M: 0407 769 295 M: 0403 704 274 M: 0418 366 580
pres@cmccv.org.au vpres@cmccv.org.au sec@cmccv.org.au treas@cmccv.org.au
Peter Hansen James Linton Jeremy Coffey Richard Sommerville
Membership Secretary Club Captain Editor (Sprocket) Club Permit Officer
M: 0427 201 168 M: 0415 781 516 M: 0409 357 268 M: 0413 029 482
memsec@cmccv.org.au captain@cmccv.org.au editor@cmccv.org.au cps@cmccv.org.au
Office Bearers Appointed by Committee
Rob van Lohuizen Ray Isles Mike Walker Wally Walsh
Committee Committee SMWR Co-ordinator NMWR Co-ordinator
M: 0433 811 645 P: (03) 9584 4168 M: 0447 503 128 M: 0420 926 316
robvl@cmccv.org.au ray@cmccv.org.au smrc@cmccv.org.au nmrc@cmccv.org.au
Reg Hammond Bill Washington Andy Symons Steve Inman
Regalia Librarian Geelong Representative Web Administrator
P: (03) 9435 7542 M: 0418 509 153 M: 0419 237 110 M: 0419 113 940
regalia@cmccv.org.au library@cmccv.org.au geelong@cmccv.org.au web@cmccv.org.au
Sprocket The Journal of the Classic
Motorcycle Club of Victoria Inc.
MOTOR
CYCLE
CLUB OF
VICTORIA
INC.
Incorporation No. A000784G
Inside This Issue Mister Ed’s February Editorial
I
Club Contact Details ...................................4 believe there is an increased sense of hope
The President’s Message ............................5 accompanying the new year. Certainly, there is
CMCCV ‘Big Day Out’ Notice .................... 6
more activity starting to appear in general and
Who is this Young Fella? – Feb Quiz..........7
Club Ride & Rally Calender ....................... 8 in particular, on our club’s agenda. Organised rides
CMCCV Start Points .................................. 9 have recommenced, and a little later, club meetings
Geelong’s 3rd Sunday Run – Dec .............10 are planned with appropriate safeguards.
About Joining CMCCV Questionnaire
Article by Jack Youdan ...........................11 Just in case you missed it, on 25th January 2018, a
Sunday Run Report – Dec ................... 12-14 1951 Vincent 998cc Black Lightning owned for 50
Sprocket Interview – Robert Knight.... 15-16 years by Australian, Jack Ehret, sold at Bonhams
NMWR Report – Dec ...........................17-18 Las Vegas auction to another Australian for an all-
SMWR Report – Jan ...........................19-20 time record amount for a motorcycle of $929,000.
Sprocket Snippets from Yesteryear ... 21-23
Maintain Yourself First, & only then your toys There were only 33 examples of this highly cov-
Article by Martyn Goodwin ............. 24-25 eted machine built and only 19 believed to still
Geelong’s 3rd Sunday Run – Jan ........ 26-27 exist. This bike was built on order for Australian
Where it all Started – My Personal Story racer Tony McAlpine and was produced alongside
Article by Ian Snadden ...................28-29
NMWR Report – Jan ...........................30-36
its stable mate, the famous “Gunga Din”. Black
Strobe Timing with Lucas 18D2 Distributor Jack Ehret, the third owner, competed success-
Article by Trevor Jones ................... 37-38 fully in many races but was famed for upping the
1928 AJS 632CC Four ............................. 38 Australian Land Speed Record from 122.6mph to
Answer to February Quiz ......................... 39 141.5mph in 1953.
Classifieds ........................................... 40-41
Club Regalia For Sale ............................... 41 Good to see it remaining in Australian ownership.
Cover Bike Details: Ed.
“Motorcyclists amass in the
main street of Maldon”
The Classic Motorcycle Club of Victoria Inc.
The Classic Motorcycle Club of Victoria PO Box 533, Elsternwick Victoria 3185
Inc. meets at 8pm on the third Wednesday Website: www.cmccv.org.au
of each month at Sturgess Hall, Chatfield Incorporation Number: A007884G
Avenue, Balwyn (Deepdene).
The Club was founded on March 12th 1971, in order to foster
Melway Ref: P46 A8 the ownership and riding of classic motorcycles 25 years
Annual Membership Fees are presently and older and to encourage future generations to share this
$50 for Single Members and $55 for passion.
Family Membership. There is a Joining
Fee of $100 for new members. This publication contains general information, which
should not be relied upon without specific advice from a
Original articles in Sprocket are copyright to the
suitably qualified professional. The Editor, Authors, and
Classic Motorcycle Club of Victoria Inc. but may The Classic Motorcycle Club of Victoria, Incorporated,
be reproduced without charge by any club with expressly disclaim liability for anything done, or omitted
similar aims, provided they are not used for profit, to be done, by any person in consequence with the contents
and recognition of source is quoted. of this publication.
Sprocket
CLUB CONTACT DETAILS & DEADLINES
All Club Permit Applications and Renewals,
(accompanied by a self-addressed stamped envelope) send to: -
CLUB PERMIT OFFICER
Classic Motorcycle Club of Victoria,
PO Box 8030, Seymour South, VIC 3660
All Membership Applications and Matters, send to: -
MEMBERSHIP SECRETARY
Classic Motorcycle Club of Victoria,
PO Box 533, Elsternwick VIC 3185
All Sprocket Articles, Letters to the Editor, Classified
Items/For Sale/Wanted etc, send to: -
THE EDITOR, Jeremy Coffey
Email: editor@cmccv.org.au, Mobile: 0409 357 268
PLEASE NOTE: DEADLINE FOR SPROCKET ARTICLES
IS THE THIRD WEDNESDAY OF EACH MONTH
All other Correspondence to be sent to: -
THE SECRETARY
Classic Motorcycle Club of Victoria,
PO Box 533, Elsternwick VIC 3185
Website: www.cmccv.org.au
LIFE MEMBERS
Hazel Budds Ray Isles Jack Youdan Ian Richsteig
David Langridge Burger Drake Graeme Randall
FORMER LIFE MEMBERS NOW DECEASED
Farrell Flanagan Philip Irving Jack Budds Tony Border
Robert McLennan Brian Dodds James Barker Warren Hicks
Alan Woodbridge Ian Kennedy Jan Kennedy
Page | 4 FEBRUARY 2021
For the Classic Motorcycle Enthusiast
President’s Message - February 2021
H
ere’s hoping for a better year this year than last. Premium International motor-
cycling events have been surely missed, which for many of us have been a fixture
on our calendars for many years if not decades. No MotoGP in October or Island
Classics in January this year. Beggars belief though that Dan has allowed the Australian
Open to take place with competitors arriving into Australia at the time I write this, testing
positive and some with the new covid variant that by all accounts is more contagious. I guess
it all comes down to what our decision makers consider more important, protecting Australia
from the horrific covid situation most other countries are currently experiencing or the all
mighty dollar. Hope this one doesn’t backfire on you big time Dan!
After two cancellations last year here’s hoping that we can proceed with our Inverloch
Rally in April. If you didn’t register last year and would like to participate in April this year,
full registration details in this Sprocket.
I have recently booked the hall for General Meetings for this year beginning from April.
I sincerely hope that social distancing requirements have eased by then allowing meetings
to recommence. Meanwhile members can avail themselves of the five Club rides that are on
offer each month.
It was 10 years last October when Marco Simoncelli was tragically killed in the Sepang
round of the MotoGP. My wife and I were at the Sepang circuit on that dreadful day and
witnessed the horror of the incident on the track side big screen which the Malaysian organis-
ers played over and over again until they realised that Marco was deceased and discontinued
the broadcast of the carnage. The race of course was red flagged and the meeting ended with
a very sombre crowd leaving the circuit en-mass. Transport from the circuit back to our
accommodation seemed at the time to take for forever compounded by the heat and humid-
ity. It was a day that started for us with much excitement and anticipation but ended very
differently. Marco if he had still been alive would have turned 34 this January.
I read just recently that the Top Mountain Crosspoint Museum in Austria burnt down
with the unfortunate loss of 230 Historic Motorcycles of 100 different manufacturers. What
a terrible loss of what must have been a very impressive and extremely valuable collection.
See more details via the following link.
https://www.mcnews.com.au/yet-another-motorcycle-museum-goes-up-in-flames
This month’s Sunday ride (Sunday February 21st) will take the place of a Club meeting,
social get together, BBQ and ride based at Sugarloaf Reservoir, Christmas Hills. See event
notice in this Sprocket. As the notice indicates, if you no longer ride but would like to
catch up with your Club mates, this is the ideal occasion. Hope to see you there.
Ian Snadden, President CMCCV.
FEBRUARY 2021 Page | 5
Sprocket
STOP PRESS!!
Impromptu Club get together – CMCCV ‘Big Day Out’
Due to the inability for us to hold regular General Meetings at the hall because
of restrictions imposed by social distancing requirements, your committee are
organising a post covid (yes optimistic we know) get together.
Date: Sunday 21st February
Venue: Sugarloaf Reservoir
Directions: From the Eltham – Yarra Glen Road in Christmas Hills, enter Sugarloaf
Reservoir via Simpson Road 200 metres from the park gates, turn left into Ridge
Picnic Area Road. This is a one-way loop road, follow the signs to CMCCV. Plenty
of bike, car & trailer parking just metres from the venue.
Time: Meet at above venue from 9.30am.
Itinerary:
• Morning tea from 9.30am - tea, coffee, soft drinks & drinking water supplied.
• 10.00am General Meeting – will be short & sweet.
• 11.00am organised ride, with backup trailer, a short ride suitable for older
bikes.
• 12.00pm basic BBQ provided, (sausages, burgers, bread, margarine & sauce)
bring your own extras i.e., salad if you feel inclined.
All members and partners welcome to attend – ride, drive or hitch a lift. This is an
opportunity for members to catch up with each other after what seems to be a
covid eternity of Club abstinence.
If you have a bike or a project that you would like to display on the day – you’re
welcome to bring it along on a trailer.
The venue has a shelter and toilets onsite, if you are driving please bring your own
chairs, as seating is limited.
Please Note: This event is subject to cancellation at short notice if the day is
declared a total fire ban day or covid interruptus, in accordance with the Clubs
Duty of Care policy.
For catering purposes please RSVP to Club Captain, preferably by email
captain@cmccv.org.au or text: 0415 781 516 no later than Friday 19th.
...Hope you can make it...
Page | 6 FEBRUARY 2021
For the Classic Motorcycle Enthusiast
WHO IS THE YOUNG
FELLA IN THE PHOTO?
The rider is an active Club member.
You can find out who the rider is and see what he
looks like today, in this issue of Sprocket.
FEBRUARY 2021 Page | 7
Sprocket
CLUB RIDE & RALLY
CALENDAR 2021
for info on all rides contact:
Sunday Runs – Club Captain James Linton: 0415 781 516
Midweek Southern Rides – Mike Walker: 0447 503 128
Midweek Northern Rides – Wally Walsh: 0420 926 316 | Keith McCracken: 0409 533 437
Geelong-Ballarat Runs – Steve Miller: 0429 177 810 | Andy Symons: 0419 237 110
Duty of Care
The Committee has a Duty of Care for the safety and welfare of Club Members at club activities. As
such, should a situation arise where there is a Total Fire Ban or extreme weather conditions forecast
such as very high temperatures, floods or gale force winds in the area where a ride, event, or rally
is being conducted, The President or Club Captain will have the authority to cancel the event.
DATE ACTIVITY
Tue 16th Feb Midweek Ride – Northern Region
Start at Greensborough, 8.30am for 9am start
Morning tea at Kinglake, lunch at Marysville.
Approximate distance 230km
Ride leader Wally Walsh: 0420 926 31
Sun 21st Feb CMCCV “Big Day Out”
Club get-together at Sugarloaf Reservoir, morning tea, General
Meeting, a short ride suitable for older bikes followed by a BBQ.
Full details of this event on page 6 of this issue of Sprocket.
Friday-Sunday Inverloch Rally
16th-18th April The full rally details and entry form have been sent via eNews and will
be in the February edition of Sprocket.
Point of contact James Linton: 0415 781 516
Page | 8 FEBRUARY 2021
For the Classic Motorcycle Enthusiast
CMCCV Start Points
Greensborough Tram Stop Garden Centre Caltex Servo, Diamond Creek Road,
Greensborough, (Mel Ref: 11 D7), Google Ref: -37.678767, 145.123515
Chirnside Park Chirnside Park Shopping Centre, cnr Maroondah Hwy and Edward Street,
Chirnside Park, (Mel Ref: 37 G4), Google Ref: -37.758285, 145.313450
Laverton Coles Express Servo, Princes Hwy, Laverton,
(Mel Ref: 53 B11), Google Ref: -37.869152, 144.762058
Lyndhurst BP Servo, cnr Westernport Hwy and Thompsons Road, Lyndhurst,
(Mel Ref: 128 K8), Google Ref: -38.078311, 145.240143
Officer BP Servo outbound, 65 Princes Fwy, Officer, (Mel Ref: 214 C6)
Google Ref: -38.070076, 145.387091 070075, 145.387259
Calder Park BP Servo outbound, Calder Hwy, Calder Park,
(Mel Ref: 354 J3), Google Ref: -37.664512, 144.748581
Gladstone Park Shell Servo, cnr Mickleham Road and International Drive, Gladstone
Park, (Mel Ref: 5 J9), Google Ref: -37.687840, 144.882090
Rockbank BP Servo, outbound, 1929 Western Freeway, Rockbank,
(Mel Ref: 355 D12), Google Ref: -37.738535, 144.680139
Rowville 7-Eleven, 951 Wellington Road, Rowville, (opp Stamford Hotel),
(Mel Ref: 81 J3), Google Ref: -37.927747, 145.233840
Geelong Club Runs’ Notice
Geelong generally has two runs per month, the normal – First Sunday of the Month
combined with the Ballarat members, then on the Third Sunday of the Month
(Shed Run) we have a shorter ride often held at a members shed or at a café.
The start point and time are the same, from McDonald’s carpark, Princes
Highway near the corner of South Valley Road, Waurn Ponds.
Meet at 9:15am for 9:30am start, (Mel Ref: 465 C5). All welcome.
Members that have not ridden with us before, these rides are a good
opportunity to make new friends and enjoy a relaxed ride.
FEBRUARY 2021 Page | 9
Sprocket
GEELONG CHAPTER RUN REPORT
3rd SUNDAY OF THE MONTH 20/12/20
F
ine cool weather greeted 7 riders and one guest for the last ride for 2020 (a year to
forget). I have not been on many club rides this year so it was great to get the T140 out
for a gallop. Stan Rogers led the way with Graeme Wilson as T.E.C., with those little
led lights on his machine makes corner marking a lot easier.
Out through Ceres we went, onto Considines Road to Moriac, but alas my machine
stopped around the back of Lake Wurdiboluc. With a lack of sparks, I was going nowhere.
The rest of the lads continued on to Deans Marsh and Lorne then back to Stan’s place for
coffee, party pies and cake, along with another “firing” of his small cannon. From all reports
it was a great ride.
After waiting for my total care tow truck to arrive, all I got was phone calls to say it was
on the way. After a considerable time of waiting and no truck, I rang Ron Study and he came
and picked me up.
Andy Symons.
P.S. a new battery and the T140 burst back to life.
List of Riders on the 3rd Sunday Geelong Run 20/12/20:
Rider Machine Year
Andy Symons Triumph T140 1973
Rod & Kaz Dutton Kawasaki Z 650 1978
Ron Study Moto Guzzi 1982 (Lead)
Stan Rogers BMW R80 1985
Graeme Wilson BMW K75C 1985 (T.E.C.)
Brian Wilson BMW K100RS 1988
Joel McLoughlin Suzuki GSX F 1989 (Guest)
David MacInnes Royal Enfield Interceptor 2020
6
Page | 10 FEBRUARY 2021For the Classic Motorcycle Enthusiast
ABOUT JOINING CMCCV
Just a few questions
Recently Sprocket featured an article fantasising what-if our Club had a detailed ques-
tionnaire included in membership applications and also imagined some responses from five
motorcycle types. It featured stereotype riders from touring, off road, sidecar, etc. types
but omitted a cruiser riding applicant, so...
Just Cruisin’ Rider:
Describe your bike...
Japanese top of the range V twin. Called a metric cruiser to distance from that
American make with names protected by a myriad of trademarks and R registra-
tions: all that born-in-the-USA stuff when we know most bits are now made in China!
My engine is 1760cc and the bike weighs in at 328Kg dry, making nearly half a tonne
cruising on the road ─ you certainly get a lot of metal for your money buying a cruiser.
Favourite motorcycling item?
Like to say all the 27 accessories bought new with the bike to double the ride away price:
you just gotta have ‘em! Favourite is a toss-up between the old west tribal tassels, the
high-rise ape hanger bars or the imitation bed roll strapped on the front for the outlaw
look.
Why join CMCCV?
To have the Club’s name changed to Cruisin’ Motorcycle Club, (still CMCC see) with the
new logo in my bike’s colours. It will really be a changed Club with adjustments to our
Club Permit Scheme: we will only sign on a certain type of motorcycle (guess which)
under CPS. Also, on induction, new members will be gifted a Club logo-ed denim cut
off and fingerless gloves for mandatory use on Club rides. One more minor change: A
Constitution rewrite to lock in a permanent President (guess who) and ban any further
Club rename proposals during the Club’s second 50 years existence.
Your Nickname?
Big Boppa
Back to Reality
Cruisers continue to be a popular motorcycle type with large sales in a range of sizes
and styles. Within CMCCV, many are ridden and enjoyed, both fully registered and on
permit, so... Member friends, keep on cruising!
Jack Youdan M202
FEBRUARY 2021 Page | 11Sprocket
SUNDAY RUN REPORT - 13/12/20
T
o paraphrase George Constanza, “Sunday rides are back baby!” With a few club
rides already been held it was great that after nine insufferable months Melbourne
based members finally had a Sunday ride to look forward to! And who better to lead
the first Sunday ride since February than the Vice President, Graham Boulter.
The start for the ride was Chirnside Park and with a long time between Sunday rides
motorcycle started turning up well before the advised meet time of 0830. In all 15 bikes and
their riders plus one pillion were ready for Graham’s pre ride brief.
From the start point the destination for the morning tea stop was Noojee. Not far from
the start we did pick up one more bike with Gary Moore & Yolanda joining the group. The
ride there was pretty uneventful as we made our way through the countryside under clear
skies. At Noojee Graham led us to a roadside stop just beside the La Trobe River for the
morning tea break. Being a self-catered ride, most people had remembered to bring food and
drink, but fortunately for a couple that had missed the memo the local shops were close by.
ROADSIDE BREAK (Sunday Run Report 13/12/20 - continued next page)
Page | 12 FEBRUARY 2021For the Classic Motorcycle Enthusiast
From Noojee the ride made its way down through Neerim South. At a regroup point
along the way we watched what appeared to be the entire population of Ford Mustangs in
Australia go by. Literally scores of the new variant of this marque drove pass, which fortu-
nately for us they were all heading in the opposite direction.
For lunch we stopped at Longwarry in the park directly opposite the pub. Although it
was very tempting to wander over the road and have a counter meal and pot, we adhered
to the spirit of self-catering and sat around the tables eating our sandwiches. During lunch
Mike Walker presented the President with a trophy of a small kangaroo in recognition of his
recent animal welfare work. For those who don’t know Snads had a run in with a kangaroo
on his property late last year. A female kangaroo took offence at him trying to free her young
joey caught in his fence, appears she didn’t know Snads is a vegetarian! Undeterred by the
several minutes of sustain attack, Snads successfully freed the joey prior to seeking medical
assistance.
After lunch we mounted up and may the short ride to Nar Nar Goon where we said our
farewells before heading home. Thanks to Graham for putting the ride together and Snads
for being the TEC.
Cheers,
James Linton.
LONGWARRY BREAK (Sunday Run Report 13/12/20 - continued next page)
FEBRUARY 2021 Page | 13Sprocket Sunday Run Participants List 13/12/2020: RIDER BIKE YEAR Ian Snadden BMW R90S 1974 (TEC) James Linton Triumph TR7 1974 Graham Boulter Honda CB900 1981 (Ride Leader) Allan Prentice Yamaha XJ900 1984 Kim Parry BMW K100 1990 Peter Mathews BMW K1100RS 1993 Phillip McArdle Honda R125R 2001 Gary & Yolanda Moore BMW R1150R 2001 Mike Walker BMW GS1200 2005 Richard Haughton Kawasaki W800 2012 Ian Bryant Kawasaki W800 2013 Rob Mullins BMWS1000R 2014 Reg Hammond Honda Integra 2016 David & Lez McLennan Triumph Thruxton 2017 Peter Hansen Triumph Street Twin 2017 Ian Young Triumph Street Twin 2020 BMW R90S LONGWARRY Page | 14 FEBRUARY 2021
For the Classic Motorcycle Enthusiast
Sprocket Interview
Our Sprocket interview this month is with Robert Knight
Sprocket – Rob, how long have you been riding a motorcycle?
Since 1972, I was 15 years old, which is the age at which you can obtain a licence in New
Zealand.
Sprocket – What was the first bike you owned?
A 1972 Suzuki TS185 two stroke single
Sprocket – What has been your favourite bike out of those that you have owned?
A 1974 Yamaha RD350 (two stroke twin) bought new for $1750. I had it “fully worked”
including expansion chambers. It was a “weapon.”
Second most memorable bike was a 1975 Yamaha RD400 bought new for $1850. It had
expansion chambers fitted and had a very lucky escape after an engine seizure locked the
rear wheel at 100mph.
Sprocket – What is your favourite or most memorable riding location / destination?
The beautiful winding roads through the high country near Tallangatta in north east Victoria.
(continued next page)
FEBRUARY 2021 Page | 15Sprocket
Sprocket – What is the bike of your dreams that you’d buy if you won Tattslotto?
First purchase would be a massive shed.
A few bikes are on the list:
Vincent Black Shadow approx. $100k
Laverda Jota 1000cc approx. $30k
Gillera 750cc 4cyl approx. $500k
MV Augusta 500cc 4cyl $??
Sprocket – What is something that your fellow
Club members probably don’t know about you?
I enjoy preserving fruit and making jam.
Have fruit trees with many different varieties
grafted on to a single tree.
Involved in the Heritage and Rare Fruit Society
of Australia.
Enjoy testing my general knowledge in online quiz
clubs.
Own 7 electric guitars and numerous amplifiers.
Sprocket – Favourite meal?
TEENAGE ROB KNIGHT
Porterhouse steak, 1 inch thick, with garlic butter,
new potatoes steamed with butter and parsley.
Desert, Lazy Moe’s cheesecake
Sprocket – Favourite drink?
Elder flower cordial, which I make when the Elder trees are in flower.
Sprocket – Any embarrassing moments you would like to share with us?
I was looking to buy a few cows for a 5-acre property I was renting.
After negotiating with a bloke a price to buy 6 cows that seemed good, I arrived ready to
complete the purchase only to find that the price we had settled on was per cow, not for 6
cows. I left “cow less” feeling very embarrassed.
Sprocket – any suggestions you may have regarding the future direction of the Club.
Don’t place limits on the type of club eligible bikes, just ensure they are of sufficient age.
Thanks Rob, for sharing a little bit about yourself with us.
Page | 16 FEBRUARY 2021For the Classic Motorcycle Enthusiast
Northern Midweek Ride Report
Tuesday 15th December 2020
Destination: Yea
T
oday’s ride will be something special, not because it is going somewhere that is very
exciting or unique, it’s because there has been 273 of non-riding days all brought
about by the Covid 19 Virus and lockdown in Victoria. As a club we have had to keep
our members protected against this terrible virus that has caused serious health problems
for all in our age group.
11 riders/bikes with 12 members turned up for a great day of riding through the scenic
country roads of Victoria, with a warm day of 35° forecast in this area, our day will be fin-
ished when the heat arrives.
We all head north toward Whittlesea, turn left towards Upper Plenty where the green
hills of Mt Disappointment roll along within eye shot of us. With the countryside still look-
ing its best before the onslaught of summer arrives, we have a great view from inside our
helmets. Still riding North our journey takes us through Wandong and along the tree lined
roads towards our morning tea stop in Kilmore.
With conversation rampant there seems to be a lot of catching up to do and time goes
fast. “Let’s head off” I tell the troops, 5-minute warning till we depart. We now head towards
Pyalong and Tooborac, then turn right towards Puckapunyal and through Seymour. This
road from Seymour to Yea is a great cruising road that flows along very nicely, especially
mid-week with little traffic on it, we are soon on the out skirts of Yea. We enter the township
where some of us refuel (fill the tank), some empty the tank (toilet stop), then we sit in the
shade of the trees on the centre strip and continue our catch up of the past months, quench
our thirst and fill our bellies with tucker.
By now the temperature is heating up and my bottom is feeling the lack of riding I have
done in the past months (sore arse). “Head em up, move em out” (with special thanks to U.S.
TV Western series, Rawhide, ’59 to ’65 - Ed) we are heading home, lucky the warm north wind
has not arrived, and the temperature is still OK. Unzip the jackets slightly and the breeze is
still comfortable, not hot.
I have always loved riding this road (Yea to Whittlesea) it brings back great memories for
me, great mates, great bikes, great times. I’m still on that same bike 43 years later, my 1974
Kawasaki 900, “can you believe that!”
(NMWR Report 15/12/20 - continued next page)
FEBRUARY 2021 Page | 17Sprocket
NMWR Report ~ 15/12/20 (continued)
Heading south to Whittlesea we travel up Junction Hill then through the small town-
ships of Flowerdale, Hazeldene, Kinglake West then down the mountain to Whittlesea. It is
only then when I feel the heat of the day as we ride the flat country and out of the tree lined
roads of the mountain. Members peel off for home as we head towards our starting point.
With good times shared around and smiles on our faces our day is complete, it’s not long
before we head home and bikes turn off in their different directions.
Thank you all for a great, enjoyable day and to my TEC Keith.
A great journey of approximately 256kms
Until next time stay upright,
Wally Walsh.
NMWR Participants List 15/12/20:
Rider Bike Year
Peter Andrews Kawasaki Z900 1974
Wally Walsh Kawasaki Z1A 900 1974 (Ride Leader)
Keith McCracken Honda ST1300 2002 (TEC)
John Killingsworth BMW R1200 GS 2011
Richard Haughton Kawasaki W800 2012
Reg Hammond Honda Integra 2016
David & Meg McLennan Triumph Thruxton 2016
Colin Borthwick Triumph T120 2017
Rob King Triumph T100 2018
Ian Young Triumph STR 2020
Peter Keage unknown ?
6
Page | 18 FEBRUARY 2021For the Classic Motorcycle Enthusiast
SOUTHERN MIDWEEK RIDE REPORT
5th JANUARY 2021
THE ONE AND A HALF SPUR – WINTER IN SUMMER RIDE
A
ll riders, (four misguided souls) assembled at Chirnside Park Shopping Centre for the
9am start. I apologise in advance for the continuing reference to the weather. However,
it was the unexpected factor in the days ride.
So here we go!
Lilydale - weather was overcast with good prospects
Chirnside Park to Yarra Glen, then Healesville - weather overcast now with average prospects
Healesville to top of Black Spur - weather overcast & drizzling
Top of Black Spur to Marysville - SUNNY with light clouds
(the day looks great!!)
(SMWR Report 05/01/21 - continued next page)
FEBRUARY 2021 Page | 19Sprocket
At Marysville we decide to continue to Lake Mountain. Half way there the weather
closed in. We had drizzle, light rain, heavy rain and fog.
However, as can happen sometimes with mountain weather it was fine (some blue
sky breaking through the clouds at the top of Lake Mountain. Here we stopped for a well-
deserved take-away morning coffee from the Resort Café.
I gave John a rest as TEC.
Next, off to Warburton for lunch! First, 9km back down to the Marysville-Woods Point
Road through (you guessed it) now worsening drizzle, thick fog & heavy rain. Then a further
say 5km to the Woods Point Road intersection. What!! No!! It couldn’t be!! “ROAD CLOSED”
This necessitated a turn back to Marysville still in said described weather. Would you
believe it was still sunny at Marysville!?
Mike, Ride Leader suggested we make Yea our alternative lunch stop. We went along
with this decision as the weather looked to have good promise in that direction.
Off to Lunch!
Marysville to Buxton - a great ride in the sun
Buxton to Taggerty - weather not looking so good
Taggerty to Yea via Whanregarwen Road - basically light to heavy torrential rain
Quick lunch at Yea between showers
Yea-Kinglake via Flowerdale & Kinglake West - rain all the way
(We said good-bye to John at Kinglake West.)
Kinglake to Healesville via Toolangi - rain all the way
Coffee break at Healesville, bikes and riders parked under a vacant BBQ shelter.
All up about 300 wet K’s.
Bring on Brass Monkey’s Ride!
Peter Hansen.
SMWR Participants List 05/01/21:
Rider Bike Year
John Best BMW R80 1986 TEC
Janet Walker Honda VTR 250 2004
Mike Walker BMW 1200GS 2005 RIDE LEADER
Peter Hansen Triumph Street Twin 2017 2nd TEC
Page | 20 FEBRUARY 2021For the Classic Motorcycle Enthusiast
Sprocket Snippets from Yesteryear
This month’s Sprocket from yesteryear is February 1991. The front cover features
a 1939 Velocette KTT Mk VIII (owner unknown) and the very interesting article is
about a war time Vincent flying machine. This Vincent really did fly, read on …
Graham Boulter
(continued next page)
FEBRUARY 2021 Page | 21Sprocket
Sprocket Snippets from Yesteryear - continued
(continued next page)
Page | 22 FEBRUARY 2021For the Classic Motorcycle Enthusiast Sprocket Snippets from Yesteryear - continued FEBRUARY 2021 Page | 23
Sprocket
Maintain Yourself First,
and only then your toys...
Just like our cherished bikes, our own bodies need regular check-ups and the
occasional maintenance to keep them travelling on life’s ever evolving road.
N
ow 75 years old, for many years as part of my regular annual health checkup I have
been having my PSA (Prostate Specific Antigen) checked – just a quick, painless and
simple blood test arranged by my local doctor (GP). Around 5 years back there was
a slight, but noticeable increase in my PSA level so a biopsy was performed. That was done
as a day procedure under a light general anaesthetic and the good news at the time was that
nothing untoward was found.
At my last test, just 6 months back my PSA level had jumped up from less than 5 to just over
10. Another biopsy was performed in October 2020 and evidence of Prostate Cancer was
found. BUGGER!
December 11, 2020, I had a robotic radical prostatectomy with the subsequent pathology of
the removed tissue revealing that I did have a grade 2 cancer but it was totally contained,
with no escape outside of the prostate. While the cancer is contained in the prostate the
recovery rate is close to 100%. But if the cancer escapes and gets outside the prostate that’s
when the shit hits the preverbal fan and the chance of recovery and ongoing life expectancy
is dramatically reduced.
(continued next page)
Page | 24 FEBRUARY 2021For the Classic Motorcycle Enthusiast A little-known fact is that world-wide more folk, irrespective of their gender, die from the effects of Prostate Cancer than those who die from the effects of Breast Cancer. Approximately 3,500 Australian men and about 35,000 USA men die of prostate cancer each year. Prostate cancer is the second leading cause of cancer death in men, behind only lung cancer. About 1 man in 40 will die of prostate cancer. Don’t you be one of them! Also not widely appreciated, is that while the majority of Prostate Cancers are diagnosed in males over the age of 60, it can present in much young men as well. Untreated you WILL eventually die. With regular PSA testing and early diagnosis and treatment, the recovery rate for Prostate Cancer is over 98% while the cancer remains contained within the prostate. BUT if you muck about, don’t have regular checkups, even though you may feel fine, if you fail to have a regular PSA check, if when you are eventually diagnosed, and the Cancer has spread beyond the prostate, the recovery rate plummets. Yes, I am repeating myself – but I figure it’s worth doing so. Not me did you say? Prostate cancer is an age-dependent disease, which means the chance of developing it increases with age. The risk of getting prostate cancer starts to increase from around the age of 50, by the age of 75 it is 1 in 7 men. By the age of 85, this increases to 1 in 6 men. If you have a first degree male relative with prostate cancer, you have a higher chance of developing it than men with no such history. The risk increases again if more than one male relative has prostate cancer. Risks are also higher for men whose male relatives were diagnosed when young. Kicker – prostate cancer itself is symptom free; its sneaky! Got the message? Have an annual PSA test so we can all enjoy motorcycling together into the future. Life is too short to muck about. Finally: My unbounded thanks to the team at the Austin Hospital and their prostate cancer specialist nurses who together provided a level of care the private sector simply cannot deliver. Martyn Goodwin. FEBRUARY 2021 Page | 25
Sprocket
GEELONG CHAPTER RUN REPORT
3rd SUNDAY OF THE MONTH 17/01/21
After some disappointment that Geelong’s 1st Sunday ride was “blown out of the
water” on the 3rd due to lousy weather, it was good to see a very good turnout yesterday.
Decision was made to go a bit further than normal and head out through Anakie and
the Brisbane Ranges to end up in Mt Edgerton and Gordon for morning coffee. The weather
was great for motorcycling – being fairly crisp and sunny. The older machines sounded great
– especially I have to say the two Triumph Tigers, which turn 50 next year. (We are going to
hold a 50th birthday party!)
Through the Barrabool Hills as usual to Merrawarp Road, past Dog Rocks and Batesford
followed by a regroup at Anakie. Good corner marshaling all the way. Then a climb through
the hills and out onto the Ballan Road from which we turned left after Fiskville to take us
to Mt Edgerton and Gordon. It has been a while
since we have been through Gordon and we had
forgotten how nice it is. Found a lovely coffee/
food stop in the Gordon Bleu Cafe who looked
after us well.
After the stop Nick Oakley knew the road
better and took us along a very interesting back
road from Mt Edgerton through Bungal and
Morrisons to Meredith. Lots and lots of new
wind turbines right next to the road since the
last visit made for impres-
sive sights. They are huge
when you are next to them!
Af ter Mered it h,
Graeme broke off to visit
a relative and Nick, Mark
and Mal went their way.
The rest had a fairly straight
run into Geelong. A pleas-
ant ride of some 200 kms
was had by all with good
fellowship.
Stan Rogers. (continued next page)
Page | 26 FEBRUARY 2021For the Classic Motorcycle Enthusiast
List of Riders on the 3rd Sunday Geelong Run 17/01/21:
Rider Machine Year
Stan Rogers Triumph Tiger 650 1972 (Leader)
Rod Dutton Kawasaki Z650 1978
Ron Study Moto Guzzi California 1981
Nick Oakley BMW K100 RS 1989
David MacInnes RE Interceptor 650 2020
Joel McLoughlin Suzuki GSX 750 R 1991 (Guest)
Mal Loon (Guest) BMW R65 1982
Mark Mensch Triumph Tiger 650 1972
Ethan Crowley BMW K100 1990 (Guest)
Beth Dutton Pillion (Guest)
Graeme Wilson BMW K75 1985 (T.E.C.)
CLASSIC CLUB CREW VISIT VAL SMITH ON 14th JANUARY 2021
FEBRUARY 2021 Page | 27Sprocket
I was born and raised in Tasmania, my Dad was a WW2 returned serviceman and
worked hard in his career after the war to provide for his family.
Dad wasn’t big on spending time with us kids, but one thing he enjoyed doing was going
to the car and bike races at Longford road racing circuit in the early to mid-1960s just south
of where we lived in Launceston.
The main motivator (Dad being Scottish) was that he always got free entry tickets for
he and I from his work colleague Laurie Benny who was a pit marshal at the race meetings.
I recall one year Mr Benny presented me with an Assistant Pit Marshall badge for the
day, which I wore with great pride.
Dad and I used to travel to the race circuit in Dad’s cream coloured Vauxhall Velox with
the obligatory cut lunches provided by Mum and we would usually position ourselves on the
banks of the railway viaduct not far from the start line.
Although I had an interest in car racing, the bike racing had me totally captivated, the
bellow of the exhausts as they backed off on the approach to the viaduct the smell of Castrol
R (not that I would have known what made that incredible smell in those early years) and
the bravery of the riders had me completely hooked.
Our other favourite viewing position was at the 90-degree right hander- Mountford
Corner at the end of the Flying Mile.
The big names would have all been there in the 60s, John Surtees (racing both two and
four wheels), Tom Phillis, Eric Hinton, Jack Ahearn, Ken Kavanaugh, Maurice Quincey,
Jim Redman, Kel Carruthers and our very own Ron Mathews etc but all those names were
unfamiliar to me at the time.
Most of the bikes were British in those days and as you would expect apart from solo
races, sidecar races were also held. I thought the solo races were good, but for me the sidecar
races were something else.
One year in the pits with Dad & Mr Benny an open wheeler race had just finished and
I was keen on getting autographs, I approached Jackie Stewart for an autograph only to be
told to “F“ off, I still recall the feeling of absolute disappointment that resulted from that
rejection. Little did I know that Jackie Stewart had DNF’d and as a result was not in the best
(continued next page)
Page | 28 FEBRUARY 2021For the Classic Motorcycle Enthusiast
frame of mood. I bore the brunt of his frustrations, however fair go Jackie I was only 12 years
old. Jack Brabham however obliged with a happy smile and a friendly chat. Fair to say I was
never a fan of Jackie Stewart; a young guy is very impressionable at that age.
Following one Longford meeting, the next week I asked Mum if I could go into town
with her. Mum must have thought this a curious request as shopping with my Mum was a
very protracted affair. I of course had an ulterior motive, I got Mum to drop me off outside
Sim King Motorcycles in Elizabeth St Launceston and pick me up when she was finished
shopping. For the whole duration I stood outside the showroom windows and starred at the
bikes on display. On this occasion a solo bike and an outfit. I drank in all I could for as long
as I could, too shy (would you believe) to go inside, but that didn’t matter because there was
so much to see through the windows that I was a very happy young fella, whiling the time
away until Mum came back.
At the age of almost 16 I became the proud owner of my first motorcycle a 1951 BSA
C11, 250cc overhead valve single, rigid rear end, coil
ignition. No one taught me to ride, I just got on it,
crashed a couple of times and just rode. I got my
learners the day I turned 16 and the freedom that
having my own wheels gave me was absolute elation.
A few months later I added a 1949 Douglas 350cc
Mark 3 to my fledgling stable and although both
these machines proved to be a mechanical challenge
in novice hands, I learned fast how to undertake
repairs and keep them going. My source of BSA parts
was from the motor spares department in Genders
Launceston and my visits there were so regular that
I still remember the engine number of my C11, sad
but true.
I suppose the rest as they say is history, 50 plus
years of motorcycle ownership and riding and I
couldn’t imagine life ever being any different.
Thanks Dad, for taking me to Longford and
introducing me to what would become a lifetime of
motorcycling.
P.S. Although I always wanted to own an outfit, it
took me until 2016 to achieve this dream. I haven’t
been disappointed, a challenge to learn to ride, but
the dream of a young boy finally realised.
Ian Snadden.
FEBRUARY 2021 Page | 29Sprocket
Northern Midweek Ride Report
Tuesday 19th January 2021
Destination: Yea
The Short Version:
From Upper ‘Boro way
We departed to the fray
We cut some slack
And gave it crack
And ended up in Yea (Hip Hip Hooray)
AT THE START - MEET AND GREET- LINE OF STEEDS
The Longer Version:
On arrival at the Caltex Servo, I was struck by the orderly line of fine steeds which
greeted me… ‘All the Pretty Horses’ was my thought. The participants appeared to be orderly
too (just as well), and engaged in friendly chat. All looking good. I topped up my tank, parked
my bike, signed the ride sheet, took a few photos and enjoyed a short meet and greet before
the ride briefing...
There were seventeen steeds assembled for the ride, all in fine fettle, with a few excep-
tional beasts, in my view at least. Capacity ranged from 750 to 1200cc, generally sports
tourers, so it looked like we would be a cohesive group without anyone falling back too far.
The oldest bike was Franco’s ’53 Black Shadow and the youngest was my 2020 Street Twin.
Beemers were the biggest bunch (6) by brand, followed by a troop (5) of Triumphs.
(NMWR Report 19/01/21 - continued next page)
Page | 30 FEBRUARY 2021For the Classic Motorcycle Enthusiast
NMWR Report ~ 19/01/21 (continued)
Seventeen riders and two pillion passengers participated. Thanks to Mez McLennan
and Vicki Best for attending ‘per pillion’, and a big welcome back to Vicki after an absence
from rides.
The weather would keep its forecast pledge: dry the whole day, commencing cool (14°C)
and slightly overcast, and would become mild (24°C) and sunny (from Strath Creek on). The
current La Nina weather pattern has blessed us with a mild summer, unlike the dreadful
and dangerous one of 2020. So, the balmy weather, fine steeds and good company gave great
promise to forget the ‘blanky 2020 stuff’ and enjoy the day. To top up our ‘cups of morale’,
so to speak.
AT THE START - MEET AND GREET
Back to the beginning…
Richard Haughton, our Ride Leader for the day, called us to our briefing, and gave us a
description of the route and morning-tea and lunch stops. He also asked us if we each had a
full tank of fuel (yes, he did say that), and then asked for someone to volunteer to be Tail End
Charlie (TEC). There was a pause before a voice came over my right shoulder saying ‘yes’ or
something similar. I turned to see Rob Mullins with a look on his face like ‘did I really say
that?’ That’s the funny thing about volunteering – it’s sometimes a knee-jerk/oh-shit sort of
thing. Rob then said ‘I haven’t done it before’ and ‘what do I do?’ He was given the rider list
and a grubby safety vest, basic instructions to pick up the markers, and checked to see if he
had a mobile phone. He then seemed a bit more comfortable. (That’s how I saw it all and if
anyone says I’m lying I say I don’t do lies; a bit of BS, but lies, nay, no, never). In any case, Rob
hit his straps quickly and did a great job for the day (more to come later).
(NMWR Report 19/01/21 - continued next page)
FEBRUARY 2021 Page | 31Sprocket
NMWR Report ~ 19/01/21 (continued)
We mounted and fired up our steeds, and formed up in a line behind Richard, ready
to depart. He led us out and down Diamond Creek Road, amongst traffic, through to the
far side of Diamond Creek where a brief muster was done. Then northwards, on to Wattle
Glen and Hurstbridge in light traffic, and on to St Andrews via Cottles Bridge, along the
Heidelberg to Kinglake Road. A bit of roadworks had generated loose gravel (and caution)
before St Andrews. Then, from St Andrews, on and up the goat-track section at a safe and
easy pace, to muster again at Kinglake.
From Kinglake we headed west
to the Flying Tarts bakery at Pheasant
Creek (just short of Kinglake West)
where we stopped for morning-tea and
met up with President Ian and Vice-
President Graham. From St Andrews
on, my senses of sight and smell
became more in tune with the country
around me, while I watched the road
ahead and behind, of course. I became
aware of how green and healthy the
bush and paddocks looked and smelt
– unlike the dry, fuel-laden condi-
tions of earlier last year. Especially
between Kinglake and Pheasant
Creek, the Mountain Ash, (Yellow?)
Box, Blackwood and Black Wattle were
prolific and lush, and in one large pad-
dock the yield of round hay bales was
prodigious.
Morning tea was an enjoyment,
with Cheerful Chat and Tech Talk as
per usual. Watered and fed, we got to
our feet to re-mount and proceed on
AT THE FLYING TARTS BAKERY CAR PARK the next stage of the ride.
Richard led us westwards to Kinglake West where we turned right onto the Whittlesea-
Yea Road and headed northwards towards Flowerdale. Initially we had a good unimpeded
run, but then up towards Flowerdale roadworks caused a bit of a delay. Just before Flowerdale,
we turned left onto the Broadford to Flowerdale Road, heading north and north-westerly to
Strath Creek. A nice, ‘uninhibited’ piece of road through open country. Then right at Strath
(continued next page)
Page | 32 FEBRUARY 2021For the Classic Motorcycle Enthusiast
NMWR Report ~ 19/01/21 (continued)
Creek onto the King Parrot Creek Road, we proceeded northwards through Kerrisdale to
meet the Goulburn Valley Highway, where we turned right and proceeded south-easterly
into Yea for our lunch stop. The country around Strath Creek and Yea was found to be a bit
drier than before – straw coloured pasture and Red Gums, yet it still smelt sweet and the
dams were all full. For me, it all invoked memories of great summers of my younger days.
A leisurely lunch was had on the median lawn opposite the Yea bakery, again with chat
and tech talk, and a bit more (admiring) focus on the bikes/steeds as they rested, shining
under a gentle sun. The standouts for me were, in no particular order: Neal’s Interceptor,
Franco’s Shadow, John’s Duke, David’s Thruxton, Col’s T120, and Steve’s CB750 (mostly
for the paintwork – lickable!). Yet all the bikes were excellent and a credit to their riders, in
my view.
Homeward bound: We struck southwards down the Melba Highway with a detour
around the Murrindindi Loop, back down the Melba through Glenburn, and then turned
right onto West Bridge Road leading onto the Kinglake to Glenburn Road, to take us back to
Kinglake. (David and Mez had continued straight on down the Melba Highway to shorten
their long road home.) As we approached Kinglake, I was following Richard on his W800
through the twisties and clearly heard his modified exhaust note. Thus:
To our intrepid Mister Haughton
‘Bout the pipes that you’ve been sortin’
Your trusty Kwaka
Is now a Cracker
It sounds just like a Norton!
We pulled into the Kinglake Servo carpark, for a final muster, before we all split off
in our respective homeward directions. We waited for all to arrive, and it soon became
apparent that someone was missing as well as TEC Rob. As mobile phones came out and
head-counting began, we realised Rob had the rider list, so we gave it a minute or two before
deciding on further action. Fortunately, Rob came into view with Greg riding pillion. Greg
had run out of fuel so Rob and Greg set to with a couple of plastic bottles of fuel to go back
to rectify the situation. All good, and as one Bright Spark observed, Rob was able to gain the
Full Experience as Tail End Charlie (LOL). However:
Our dear friend Greg Costello
Became a hapless fellow
To run out of fuel
Is quite uncool
Perhaps his tank is too shallow?
(continued next page)
FEBRUARY 2021 Page | 33Sprocket
THE TASTY AND THE TASTEFUL
YEA - CHAT ‘N CHEW
(continued next page)
Page | 34 FEBRUARY 2021For the Classic Motorcycle Enthusiast
NMWR Report ~ 19/01/21 (continued)
At the end of a grand day out, we departed from Kinglake in different directions, westerly
and easterly, to go to our homes. I followed Richard and others to Whittlesea, but continued
straight on down Plenty Road alone, rather than down Yan Yean Road back to the Caltex
Servo.
I clocked 200km at Bundoora and took that to be a fair estimate of length for the day’s
ride. It was long enough for me to enjoy immensely without annoying my old bones.
Thanks to Richard for a great ride, to Rob for a job well done, and to all for good company.
Ian Young.
PS 1: Thanks to Greg for a limerick opportunity – you may know it’s unavoidable. Years ago
a friend said to me after a stuff-up; ‘Your achievements are written as words, by a finger in
sand, to be blown by the wind. Your mistakes are written as words, by a hammer and chisel,
deep into granite’. Or thereabouts.
PS 2: Thanks to Steve for two good lines and a tasty paint-job.
PS 3: When Richard asked me to do this report, he suggested I might write it as a poem. I
was horrified, thinking he has severely over-estimated my talent and ability, and most of all,
my diligence. Recalcitrance rules, thus…
Some like Poems, smooth and slick
Me, I like a Limerick
Short and sweet
Hard to beat
Done and dusted in a tick (there you go)
DAVID MCLENNAN (continued next page)
FEBRUARY 2021 Page | 35Sprocket
NMWR Participants List 19/01/21:
Rider Bike Year
Franco Vincent Black Shadow 1953
Neal Videan Royal Enfield Interceptor 1970
Greg Costello BMW R75/5 1971
Steve Inman Honda CB750 1972
Ian Snadden BMW R90S 1974
Scott Oldfield BMW R90 1975
Graham Boulter Honda CB900F 1981
John Leahy Ducati 900SS 1982
John & Vicki Best BMW R80 1986
Richard Haughton Kawasaki W800 2012 (Ride Leader)
Robert Mullins BMW S1000R 2015 (TEC)
David & Mez McLennan Triumph Thruxton 2016
Laurie John BMW F800GT 2016
Reg Hammond Triumph T100 2016
Peter Hansen Triumph Street Twin 2017
Colin Borthwick Triumph T120 2017
Ian Young Triumph Street Twin 2020 (Correspondent at Large)
A MIGHTY MOTOR – ENVIED BY MOST
Page | 36 FEBRUARY 2021For the Classic Motorcycle Enthusiast
Strobe Timing with Lucas
18D2 Distributor
A recent newsletter described converting AMC twins to dual 6-volt coil and pointless ignition.
The conversion is straight forward but it is difficult
to set the ignition timing as the early machines do
not have provision for timing with a strobe light.
The following describes timing with a strobe light
on a 1962 Triumph Twin. The method should be
able to be adapted to the AMC twins (my Matchless
is a single).
Make up a timing disc, I used Perspex, a piece of 1/8
tube and two screws. One must be the same thread
as the screw which holds the cam on the distributor
shaft. This is easy to match as it is the same thread
as the screws which hold the points plate on the
distributor.
Find a preliminary timing setting to get the bike running. Turn the motor to its static tim-
ing point on cylinder 1. Connect a spark plug and earth it. Turn on the ignition. Rotate the
distributor body until the plug fires. This should be near enough to get the motor to start.
If it doesn’t, rotate the distributor by very small amounts 2mm at a time advancing and or
retarding until the motor starts. Marking the distributor base with a texta makes it easier
to keep track of your adjustments. Once it starts continue to adjust the distributor until the
motor is running reliably.
Remove the centre screw from the distributor shaft and fit the timing disc. It has to be
tight otherwise it will start moving when the motor
gets up to speed. Make up a pointer, turn cylinder
1 to TDC and line up the disc’s TDC mark with the
pointer.
Plug in the strobe light to number one cylinder,
start the bike and increase the revs until the igni-
tion stops advancing and rotate the distributor so
the advance mark lines up with the pointer. Tighten
distributor.
(continued next page)
FEBRUARY 2021 Page | 37Sprocket
This method worked well for me and I’m sure it could be adapted to other bikes remember
the degrees of advance at the distributor shaft are half the degrees at the crankshaft. The
other thing to bear in mind is the twin coil probably uses more current than the single coil
which will tax the puny Lucas RM 13/15 alternator. I recommend fitting an electronic regula-
tor a ‘RR6V British’ available from Rex’s
Speed Shop. It also stops battery boiling and allows you to use a gel battery.
Trevor Jones.
1928 AJS 632CC Four
David Baker
The idea of building a 500cc AJS V4 seems unlikely, yet if it hadn’t been
for the Great Depression, the firm might have done just that.
Page | 38 FEBRUARY 2021For the Classic Motorcycle Enthusiast
And the Mystery Rider is...
WALLY WALSH
FEBRUARY 2021 Page | 39Sprocket
CLASSIFIEDS
ITEMS FOR SALE AND WANTED
All vehicles listed for sale must have the registration number or frame and engine
number included with ad. Ads will run for TWO ISSUES ONLY unless renewed by
deadline of the General Meeting preceding month of publication.
FOR SALE: FOR SALE – Engine Kit for Villiers
Autocycle Headlight Glass 3.5"diameter suit Junior Deluxe Engine:
Malvern Star or other autocycle – Free Ring Set, Gasket set. Condenser. $100
Contact Kevin Jessup: 9338 3557 Contact Kevin Jessup – Phone: 9338 3557
FOR SALE – Malvern Star Autocycle WANTED – Honda CB750/4 Bikes & Parts:
Parts: Top fork nuts, centre stand, pivot, spring
and C bracket. Rear brake lever. Rev counter.
Tanks – Wheels – Guards and various other Speedo. Rear grab rail
parts
Also looking for CBX1000, CX500, CX650
Contact Bob – Mobile: 0419 000 649 and CB 750 to do up.
Paul White: 0419 681 794
FOR SALE – BMW R60/69 Tank:
Good condition. Side tool box with key WANTED:
$500 Motorcycle dealer name badges/plates for
David Langridge: 0412 361 007 my collection, as in accompanying photo.
Buy or Exchange.
Grant Barrett – Mobile: 0432 589 018
Email: grantjbarrett@yahoo.com.au
(continued next page)
Page | 40 FEBRUARY 2021For the Classic Motorcycle Enthusiast
CLASSIFIEDS
ITEMS FOR SALE AND WANTED
FOR SALE – Ambassador:
Manufactured October 1951
Frame # P1051 6963
Completely restored never run
Immaculate condition
Rare model in Australia
Extensive file of correspondence with
Ambassador owners club on England.
Also copy of hard to get “A Guide to
Ambassador Motorcycles” by Michael Easton $3000
and Fred Hibbert. David Langridge: 0412 361 007
Club Regalia and Clothing for Sale
All items displayed and sold at every meeting
Plus orders taken anytime by contacting Reg on: (03) 9435 7542
Caps (grey/black trim, white logo) ....................................... $15
Beanie (black, gold logo) ...................................................... $10
Floppy Hat (black, wide brim, gold logo) ............................ $15
Polo Shirts (grey, white logo above top pocket) ................. $28
Jumper (black, gold logo) ..................................................... $70
Jacket (black, gold logo, polar fleece with sleeves) ........... $42
Vest (black, gold logo, polo fleece, sleeveless) .................. $32
Cast Logo aluminium (for painting, mount on bike) ........... $30
Hard Cover Note Books with Pen ......................................... $10
Label Holder (clear, extra strong, made for bikes) ............. $8
Cloth Club Patch (blue/gold, sew on type) .......................... $4
Club Sticker (blue/gold, sticky back) ................................... $2
Pens with Club Logo (blue/gold, push top) ......................... $3
Name Badge (includes club logo) ........................................ $12.50
Note Books ............................................................................ $10
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