Classic Bike Guide

  • GRAB A CLASSY CALENDAR

    GRAB A CLASSY CALENDAR

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    SUFFOLK BASED CLASSIC motorcycle dealer Andy Tiernan Classics has launched its classic calendar for 2020. Automotive artist Mike Harbar has created six pieces of artwork for the calendar. It unfolds, so that the beautiful machines illustrated each fill an entire A4 sheet. The lower part has individual days outlined, providing enough room to note down…

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  • Motorcycles that mattered: Chater-Lea Copperknob

    Motorcycles that mattered: Chater-Lea Copperknob

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    The ‘Copperknob’ looks one of the most extraordinary machines in British motorcycle racing history. But its existence was a result of several happy accidents, as Rachael Clegg discovers… Of all the materials one would associate with a motorcycle, copper isn’t one of them. Small change, yes. Wiring, yes. Piping, yes (even the ancient Egyptians had…

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  • CLASSICS TAKE TO THE HILLS

    CLASSICS TAKE TO THE HILLS

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    THE BEAMISH TROPHY TRIAL, which covers 120 miles of northern dales in Cumbria, Durham and Northumberland, attracted 128 riders on classic off-roaders in September. The event, run by South Durham Vintage Motorcycle Club, saw a wide range of steeds from Scotts to Suzukis tackle the route which includes some of the finest motorcycling roads in…

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  • COUNCIL CASH SQUEEZE FORCES MUSEUM CLOSURE

    COUNCIL CASH SQUEEZE FORCES MUSEUM CLOSURE

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    THE LONDON MOTORCYCLE MUSEUM has closed its doors for the last time. Opened in 1999, the museum housed almost 200 bikes, with some dating back to 1907. The museum contained one of the most comprehensive collections of Meriden-built Triumphs in the world. The museum was set up by Bill Crosby who also owned Reg Allen’s,…

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  • CBG: From the archive

    CBG: From the archive

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    The world never stops changing, but I instantly found myself smiling at this photograph. My first job was as a petrol pump attendant, though by the 1980s a shirt and tie was not necessary and to be honest, I spent more time watching the mechanics and helping the MoT tester than serving the public… But…

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  • November issue on sale now!

    November issue on sale now!

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    We have all you need to know about BSA’s unit twin, the A65. Also, check out the mud-plugging 80s style of the Suzuki TS250ER!

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  • CBG Workshop: SUZUKI GS 750 RESTORATION

    CBG Workshop: SUZUKI GS 750 RESTORATION

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    WORDS and PHOTOGRAPHY: Robert Davies and Lee Chambers If you had the privilege to own a GS 750 back in the day, you will have the greatest respect for this superb all-round four-stroke. It is quite remarkable, since this bike was Suzuki’s first big four-stroke and with it the company plunged headlong into competing with…

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  • CBG Workshop: Learning to TIG weld –  Patting your head while rubbing your stomach!

    CBG Workshop: Learning to TIG weld – Patting your head while rubbing your stomach!

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    Many of us enjoy seeing something that’s been crafted from aluminium, but it’s rarely something we can do ourselves. So we went to see Ian Davies, owner of ETTO Motorcycles, who has started giving courses on welding aluminium and metal-shaping. How hard can it be? Words and photography by Matt Expertise, patience and enthusiasm by…

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  • CBG Workshop: How big’s your ’ole?

    CBG Workshop: How big’s your ’ole?

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    You can pick up a second-hand set of barrels and pistons, but how do you check what you’ve got? Words By HUTCH, HTE MOTORCYCLES (01328 700711) PHOTOGRAPHY BY SHELLEY It’s starting to look like my faithful old T140 is going to need a top end refresh. I think the exhaust pushrod seal is starting to…

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  • How’s that work: Workshop essentials – wiring tools

    How’s that work: Workshop essentials – wiring tools

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    Don’t be scared – tackling bike electrics can be hugely rewarding! If motorcycle wiring scares you witless then you can take some comfort from the fact that you’re not the only one. For many, bike electrics are a black art form but they don’t need to be; in fact, given the right kit it’s actually…

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