Classic Bike Guide

The pride and joy of the Coventry-based Rudge-Whitworth factory, the Rudge Ulster was born out of self-congratulation Words by RACHAEL CLEGG PHOTOGRAPHY BY GARY CHAPMAN The sun, as they say, always shines on the righteous. So it seems only right that this 1937 Rudge-Whitworth Ulster is photographed in gleaming sunshine at Davolls classic motorcycles in…

Continue reading »

Rubbing, rubbing, rubbing. A paint finish is only as good as the preparation, but boy is it tedious. Until you see the final finish, then it’s all worthwhile… Words and photography by Matt special thanks to: Nick and Jack at Ashtons Classic bodyshop (01362 692271), Elk promotions, Steve the welder (thanks buddy you are an…

Continue reading »

Our single-cylinder Matchless G3L had its head rebuilt last month, so now it’s time to start putting it all back together. Tenacity and perseverance by Hutch (HTE motorcycles 01328 700711) Words, photography and inane questions by Matt Read more and view more images in the April 2019 issue of CBG – on sale now!

Continue reading »

Geoff Stray usually saves his time for V-twins, but this gorgeous Panther keeps stealing him away Words: Adam Bolton Photography: Marco Giuliani LEGEND SAYS THAT Panthers were built for hauling sidecars around and transporting Foreman Arkwright from his home to t’ mill. And just as their first owners were a special breed, those who retain…

Continue reading »

In this chapter, Part Eight: The Bucking Bronco, Rachael Clegg chats to Hailwood’s team-mate Stuart Graham about the 1967 season, and lifts the lid on the two-wheel monster that was the RC 181. WORDS: Rachael Clegg Photography: Mortons archive The near sonic boom of the Honda Six was one of the most defining sounds of…

Continue reading »

Sandy Bloy has had an affinity with cammy Nortons since the tender age of 19. He found this model and it has been beautifully brought to the condition you see here WORDS AND PHOTOGRAPHY: Stuart Urquhart I was lost in a daydream. Suddenly the cockpit radio crackled (a text on my mobile) ‘What’s the plan…

Continue reading »

The C 2V, which means ‘Corsa Due Valvole’ ortwo-valve race bike, was the first Guzzi racing machine, created just seven years after the factory started. And lucky Adam Bolton gets to ride it! Making a trip to Italy to test classic bikes has obvious pleasures, but I assure you that it’s also very hard work!…

Continue reading »

Words by Oli Photography Archive/Gary Chapman IF YOU ARE looking for a motorcycle that’s easy to live with, ideal for day-to-day use and can be looked after at home by an owner with a modicum of skill, it could be a Velocette Venom is not for you. The Venom is for those with time on…

Continue reading »