FLAT TANKER ADVICE ?

[ianrichards]

I wonder if there is anyone out there who could point me in the right direction?
I am after a mid 1920s flat tanker (with brakes - so to speak).
Not too sure of the make or model and open to any suggestions/advice.
I have a couple of Matchless bikes (1943 G3L & 1957 G11), so another stable mate from the same family would be nice, but not necessary.
I have looked at Sunbeams, Triumphs, Norton etc .... but only from a aesthetics point of view, not from a practical perspective.

Any pointers would be greatfully received.
TIA
Ian

[rogerwilko]

I think A flat tank Norton or bigport AJS are hard to beat! . This isn't really a bigport but it would do! It's not mine either.

[Luddite]

I think A flat tank Norton or bigport AJS are hard to beat!

Seconded, with a Sunbeam added.  I did a fair bit of research into spares availability / knowledge base / usability / mechanical robustness / simplicity etc. before choosing my AJS (which isn't really a bigport either).  I've found it to be - apart from the front brake - remarkably usable and (other than wheel / brake removal which is a bit fiddly) simplicity itself to work on.  Nortons seem to command a premium by virtue of their brand.

I have to say a BSA L29 could also be a sensible choice, but for no rational reason, I've never liked BSAs!  Other than my Ariel Three, which is of course, a wonderful device!

[rogerwilko]

Yes i agree with myself and Luddite. Excellent taste!!

[Swig]

Good advice! I have an Ex WD G3L and I also run a 1928 Big Port AJS. Lovely stuff !

[rogerwilko]

Show us a pic Swig!!

[rogerwilko]

Found a flat tanker yet Ian?

[ianrichards]

Thanks for the advice.
Sorry not to have responded, but fut I forgot to tick the box about "notifications of a reply" so I forgot to log on.

The great news is is that I am now the proud custodian of a 1928 Norton 16H.
The bike has only had ONE registered keeper prior to me and I have stacks paperwork which include;
Buff log book.
Insurance policies
Letter from Motorcycle magazine dated 1928 to the "new owner of a Norton"
All the original hanbooks for the bike, carb, fuel pump, magneto etc.
I even have the owners record of months used from 1928-47 - he was a summer rider only !!!
In 1948 the bike was dismantled and dry stored, for the next 60+ years it was inherited by various children and in 2009 was rebuilt by George "Norton" Cohen".

Now in the process of learning to ride her and what fun I am having :-)

Thanks
Ian

[rogerwilko]

Lucky man Ian. Happy trails!!