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Topics - Kit352

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The Classic Biker Bar / Advise on my first vintage purchase
« on: October 29, 2019, 04:30:44 PM »
So, I am finally in a position to purchase my first truly old motorcycle.  I have experience in bikes from the early 70's onwards but I want to try something different this time. 
What I want to buy is a single seater pre-war bike.  Something along the lines of a new imperial or matchless looking bikes.  So with that in mind I have no idea what models or manufacturers I should be looking at.  I think it's best I list my wants and needs and take it from there.  I welcome all advise and discussions.

Budget- £6000 tops.  I see bikes ranging from £2k and up with a majority of them around £5000 so I think my budget is good.

Must be a single seat.

I would prefer a prewar but new ones are possible too.  Looks like the style I like dies out around mid 50's.

I would like one with a twist throttle and lighting.  I've never ridden a lever throttle bike but I dont think I would get on well with it.  Lighting is a nice add on but realistically I could build a rechargeable lighting system if the bike didnt have any.  I doubt the bike would be ridden at night but you never know.

Hand shift

I'm a bigger guy at 6ft and around 110kg.  I'm not sure how the power works on these old motors but I am thinking I need a bigger motor.  Question is how big?  Frame size may also be an issue.

Reliability and parts availability need to be pretty good.  I know thats a relative statement but I dont want to buy a bike that I have no chance of repairing if something simple goes.

Where is the best place to look to buy one?  I've been watching Ebay and a few other sites lately.  I've seen a few nice bikes I wouldn't mind checking out but i feel i lack the knowledge to make a good decision at this point.  I am planning on taking the long drive to a few dealers in the coming weeks to see some first hand.

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