classic motorcycle forum

Motorcycle Discussions => British Bikes => Topic started by: Simon Marriott on May 18, 2009, 12:37:22 PM

Title: Hello From a new member
Post by: Simon Marriott on May 18, 2009, 12:37:22 PM

Hi there my name is Simon Marriott from stamford lincs , i am 23yrs of age and am looking to get a bike pref pre 50's with a saddle seat, i was currently looking at a Bsa Silver star (1939) or similar bikes of that period and looks . I would much apprciate if you could help me in choosing such a bike to purchase and restore, and highlight any problems with bike from the late 30's-late 40's.I do not claim to know much about these bike but i am more than willing to learn.

Thanks Very Much

Simon :)

Title: Re: Hello From a new member
Post by: Rex on May 18, 2009, 04:49:36 PM

The immortal two questions, then-

1) how skilled/experienced are you are with mechanical stuff?
2) how deep are your pockets?

Because the less you have of one, the more you need of the other. :-/

Then you need to consider the use you're going to put this bike to; 100 miles a year on sunny afternoons, or hard commuting?  Until you know what you intend, it's hard for anyone to recommend a bike for you.

Those Silver Stars (plus all the related models) are great bikes, but they ain't cheap.....

Title: Re: Hello From a new member
Post by: LJ. on May 19, 2009, 10:54:04 AM

Hi Simon,

Well firstly it's great to hear of a relatively youngster showing interest in these old bikes! A bike from around the 50's would probably suit you best cost wise as what has already been said, anything prewar is costly. Bikes with girder forks seem costly too although they mostly went out of fashion 1947ish. As a newcomer to classic bikes I'd recommend to go for a BSA M20 or M21 parts are fairly easy to come by and being side valve they are very easy to work on, very reliable and easy to do roadside fixes and most of the time will get you home.

Hey, I'm just down the road from you in the Deepings and cover Stamford quite regularly as part of my ride outs. Gizza shout if you need help.

LJ.

(http://www.ljswain.btinternet.co.uk/pictures/icons/clap.gif)

Title: Re: Hello From a new member
Post by: Goldie on May 19, 2009, 10:05:25 PM

How about a BSA 650 A10?

Good looking bike. Tons of spares available and won't break the bank.

Title: Re: Hello From a new member
Post by: m3bobby on May 20, 2009, 11:38:07 AM

I'm not far from you too, Sleaford (A15), I've got a 1940 WM20, a 1940 Enfield WD/D, a 1941 WD/C and a 1942 WD/CO. Feal free to drop in if your over this way.

Cheers, Chris.