The following is quoted from the regular column PUB TALK written by Jaqueline Bickerstaff and published in RealClassic magazine Issue 19 in November 2005. It describes the experience of riding a vintage-era (1920s) machine on modern roads in Britain and Europe, and is good advice for anyone who may be thinking (as I was late last year) about buying an old crock from this era of motorcycling with the intention of actually using it from time to time.
Previous to reading this column, my own mental cut-off point for the modern-day rideability of any old motorcycle had been about 1932, by which time front brakes, re-circulating oiling and electric lighting had all become standard fitments on most machines. And now that I�ve taken the plunge to own a 1925 Chief, I find that the article reads truer than ever. Especially the bit about �... try to avoid emergencies for a while".
I do love my little HRD (a 1926 500cc sidevalve), its steady thud-thud like a comforting heartbeat as we wend our gentle way through the countryside together. Yes, it's slow, and sloppy, and worn out, and not most people's cup of tea. But I don't mind being patient. I like the restfulness and enjoy looking around instead of concentrating every fibre on watching for hazards, cameras, and restraining more power and speed than is good for me. As I think our Round Britain Ride girls found out [in 2005 two RealClassic staffers did this ride on new Royal Enfield Bullets], by just plonking along, but keeping on rolling, it is quite possible to put in respectable mileages. In fact, I reckon some of the best touring bikes ever, are our common old classics; B33s, G80s, and the Bullets that you can still buy. You have to lose some of that frantic desire to rush around, but isn't that what touring is about?
To get the best out of them it pays to travel relatively light, so either buy your camping gear in hiking shops, or just carry a big credit card and stay in hotels instead (ooh, it hurt to say that!). The smaller and lighter among you will also enjoy a machine you can push about and pick up with ease. If you doubt the capabilities of an old British single, find yourself a copy of 'Without Let or Hindrance' by Dick Powell and have a fascinating little read about touring in the early post�war years.
While we are on the vintage scene, a reader recently asked about riding such ancient iron - presumably what's different, how hard is it, etc. Well, there's nothing to it really, at least not until one goes back beyond the early-to-mid 20s. Then drives may be by belt, the notional brakes may be blocks rubbing on real or dummy belt pulleys, controls could be anywhere, and the machines are so spindly that they do begin to feel like overgrown bicycles - perhaps a subject for another day. But a late vintage, or post vintage bike is as easy to ride as a 1960s job - just not as fast, or as well sprung!
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