Log in

View Full Version : Fast Doc's 'new' 1968 BSA 441 Victor!


FastDoc
06-18-2011, 11:29 PM
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v25/maule/DSC06953.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v25/maule/DSC06954.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v25/maule/DSC06933.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v25/maule/DSC06936.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v25/maule/DSC06938.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v25/maule/DSC06939.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v25/maule/DSC06941.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v25/maule/DSC06942.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v25/maule/DSC06943.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v25/maule/DSC06944.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v25/maule/DSC06946.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v25/maule/DSC06949.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v25/maule/DSC06950.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v25/maule/DSC06951.jpg

I just gave it a bath. I think it will detail out nicely over the next week or two as I attack it bit by bit. Samll projects.

The fenders are not dull chrome, ther are aluminum! Gonna polish them, and the taillight bezel which is also aluminum.

Needs handlebars, mirrors, and tires and a dozen little things liuke brake shoes and lubing the cables.

Should be fun.

SpudRider
06-19-2011, 12:27 AM
The bike appears to be in pretty good shape for a '69, Doc! Thanks for posting the photos. We eagerly await your updates! :)

Spud :)

Jim
06-19-2011, 02:02 AM
Wow very cool bike Doc :)

Weldangrind
06-19-2011, 03:01 AM
That's a sweet old bike. I can see the origins of the XS650, just like Reveeen says.

Reveeen
06-19-2011, 04:00 AM
A "must have" here:

http://www3.telus.net/bc_triumph_registry/smoke.htm

JimW
06-19-2011, 09:28 AM
Cool ride, Doc! Brings back alot of good memories of days past

Barnone
06-19-2011, 10:32 AM
A "must have" here:

http://www3.telus.net/bc_triumph_registry/smoke.htm
I remember the "Prince of Darkness".

JTCAndrew
06-19-2011, 11:04 AM
Sweet Bike Doc - Haven't been here for awhile, as This time of year pretty much keeps me outdoors, enjoying the weather. Thanks for sharing the Great Pictures......

ejcycles
06-19-2011, 11:56 AM
FastDoc

A Great Classic {real motorcycle in my book} Thanks for posting the pictures! No pun intended... I just think the Vintage bikes have more class than what's built today.

FastDoc
06-19-2011, 02:32 PM
A "must have" here:

http://www3.telus.net/bc_triumph_registry/smoke.htm

That's funny! :lol:

Why do the British drink warm beer?

Because Lucas makes their refrigerators... :roll:

Weldangrind
06-19-2011, 03:32 PM
:lol:

FastDoc
06-19-2011, 05:24 PM
I cleaned and degreased the bike, and I'm charging the battery. I lubed the cables, and checked the oil(s). There are THREE oils to check. Engine (dry sump) primary chain, and transmission. Everything on this little bike is different, and not particularly easy to work with. It's not hard to see how the Japanese killed the British motorcycle industry in about a week. :roll:

A little wax and polish it looks pretty OK given it's age.

With that said this old gal has a lot of character and personality. It's fun.

I sure am filthy though. :wink:

Reveeen
06-19-2011, 05:52 PM
I sure am filthy though.


Each British bike has it's own personality. As time goes on, you will learn your bike's personality, and eccentricities...... probably being filthy most of the time.

Barnone
06-19-2011, 06:30 PM
FD,
Do you have a set of Wentworth tools? My father had a good set when we use to wrench on the old Brit bikes and old Rolls Royce and Jaguar autos but sold the whole lot when he died.

FastDoc
06-19-2011, 08:10 PM
I don't but have noticed the bolts to be metric, SAE, and none of the above. :wink:

FastDoc
06-19-2011, 08:12 PM
After a thorough inspection and cleaning I rode the old gal 100 miles today. I'm sure that's the most it has been ridden in years, and I know I doubled the distance it's gone in the past year.

55 MPH seems to be it's sweet spot. 60 is OK. Over that it gets too uncomfortable, both for myself and the old engine. 70 seems like its top speed. I didn't see the need to push it.

Nothing broke or fell off, but it does leak oil from at least two sites on the bottom/side of the engine. From what I know of these old bikes, I'll consider it normal.

I have the starting drill more or less down now, but a large painful bruise on my inner right thigh from the oil tank cap to show for my prior starting attempts.

It runs a lot like a strong 200cc CB. Except it vibrates much more, rides terribly, and neither turns nor stops. But it's cool. 8)

The horn wire broke from vibration, and the right rear footpeg almost fell off from vibration, as did the left handgrip. It's almost like having a Chinabike! :P

Barnone
06-19-2011, 10:56 PM
FD,
How exciting that you had her out for a ride.
Maybe the PO has a set of Wentworth tools?

FastDoc
06-19-2011, 11:27 PM
I made a mistake it is a '68 not a '69 as I'd thought. I'll post the VIN when I get a chance.

I am the fourth owner. The first guy is now in his eighties. He passed it on to his son some years ago. He is in his sixties now and sold it to my friend Jerry two years ago who recently stopped riding and passed the BSA on the me. I even have the original sales receipt and owners manual and maintenence records going back for decades.

I repaired the broken horn wire and loose footpeg. CB ownership has prepared me well for Britbike ownership! :P

Jim
06-20-2011, 12:00 AM
Glad to hear you got out on it already :)

It runs a lot like a strong 200cc CB. Except it vibrates much more, rides terribly, and neither turns nor stops. But it's cool.

:lol: :lol:

SpudRider
06-20-2011, 02:25 AM
...I repaired the broken horn wire and loose footpeg. CB ownership has prepared me well for Britbike ownership! :P
Indeed! ;) I glad you got to take a nice long ride, Doc. :)

Spud :)

FastDoc
06-20-2011, 11:35 AM
I discovered part of the reason for the bikes ill handling behavior. The front tire is really a rear (trials) tire and much too wide. Stock is 3.5X19 and this is a 4.0X19. Replacement tires should help a lot. Also changing the bars to standard will help too. :wink:

SpudRider
06-20-2011, 01:14 PM
I discovered part of the reason for the bikes ill handling behavior. The front tire is really a rear (trials) tire and much too wide. Stock is 3.5X19 and this is a 4.0X19. Replacement tires should help a lot. Also changing the bars to standard will help too. :wink:
Indeed, if the front tire is too wide, the bike handles somewhat like pushing a snowplow. ;) I'm sure the bike will also handle better without the "ape hanger" handlebars. :)

Spud :)

FastDoc
06-20-2011, 01:49 PM
New classic tread pattern correctly sized Dunlop tires and tubes are on the way from Rocky Mountain ATV. New correct bars are on the way from eBay. Correct switchgear and period correct mirrors are on the way from Bike Bandit.

Hope this is it for a while! :D

2LZ
06-20-2011, 04:05 PM
Hope this is it for a while! :D
Not a chance, Doc! It's old and British! :lol:
That is a very sweet Victim. Very cool. Yep...lousy brakes, didn't handle worth a darn, heavy and rubber frames....but very cool indeed. They really exemplify the true 'thumper' sound too.
I love the right side shift. My Ironhead was like that. I keeps people from asking if they can take it for a ride! 8)
One possible upgrade to think about.... A buddy of mine has a cherry 1970 Triumph Tiger. First thing he did was replace the points and condensor and put in an electronic ignition conversion kit. No more worries...

FastDoc
06-20-2011, 04:37 PM
Here's a sound clip of a similar machine idling, or 'ticking over' as the Brits say.... :wink:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1cd7hX6fo8c

I downshifted the Gold Wing this AM trying to use the rear brake in the parking lot. This is gonna take some adjusting!

The Beezer sure is fun, and I get a lot of waves and thumbs up, generally as people are passing me... :roll:

FastDoc
06-20-2011, 04:46 PM
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VYPJPO9JYE4

This bike must have have already been warm. One kick with no tickling of the carb would be unusual. :P

FastDoc
06-20-2011, 04:49 PM
One possible upgrade to think about.... A buddy of mine has a cherry 1970 Triumph Tiger. First thing he did was replace the points and condensor and put in an electronic ignition conversion kit. No more worries.

Copy that. Right now the bike is well tuned with new points. When they are worn (tomorrow? :roll: ) I'll upgrade to electronic ignition. When the Amal (a fresh rebuild, by the way) is worn out I'd look into a Mikuni conversion. When my right leg is worn out I'll look into a Japanese bike with an electric starter!

Barnone
06-20-2011, 09:31 PM
I vote for keeping the points and the Amal carburetor. Neither should require a lot of maintenance.

FastDoc
06-20-2011, 10:46 PM
Both are new/rebuilt.

Reveeen
06-21-2011, 02:38 AM
One possible upgrade to think about.... A buddy of mine has a cherry 1970 Triumph Tiger. First thing he did was replace the points and condensor and put in an electronic ignition conversion kit. No more worries.

Copy that. Right now the bike is well tuned with new points. When they are worn (tomorrow? :roll: ) I'll upgrade to electronic ignition. When the Amal (a fresh rebuild, by the way) is worn out I'd look into a Mikuni conversion. When my right leg is worn out I'll look into a Japanese bike with an electric starter!

After a hundred mile ride those points could do with "setting", and the Amal shipped from the factory NAWO (new all worn out). Contrary to popular *thought*, your right leg will not wear out, but will develop curious "lumps and bumps" (specifically just above your right heel).

The electronic ignition conversion will do away with the points, but most importantly it does away with the mechanical ignition advancer, which is likely sticking.
If your ignition advancer isn't "sticking" it: 1) is about to, and 2) is the only one on the planet that isn't.
Point sets, at least the currently available for purchase point sets, vary widely in quality. It is most important that the points cam be lubed as I have seen the plastic/phenolic rubbing blocks wear out in as little as 500 miles.

Changing out the Amal for a carburetor that "works" will make a "night and day" difference to that, or any, English bike. Doesn't have to be a Mikuni, could be a vacuum Keihin (1/2 of a pair on an old Honda twin), virtually ANYTHING you have hanging about will "work" better.

But you know, at the end of the day, it's your bike. I suggest these things, as things to keep your eyes peeled for (for purchase at the "right price"), to improve your "British experience". The replaced parts can be carefully stored in a box/container to be passed on to the next owner. These changes are not one way, you, or someone else, can easily go back to original.

Now, for that gearshift on the right side: the right side is the "proper" place for a gear shift to "live", maybe you can get a conversion for your Honda to put that right?

Weldangrind
06-21-2011, 10:19 AM
So, is the displacement 441cc?

FastDoc
06-21-2011, 11:46 AM
So, is the displacement 441cc?

You bet! :P

Reveen, I'm sure you're giving me good advise. Is far as keeping it all original that's not much of a factor. I already found out the seat, fenders, and paint colr are all wrong. Since it would not be worth it to replace/restore it to original, I'm happy with an original looking rider. Since as all you guys know I ride a lot, mechanical improvements that can't be readilly seen are worthwhile.

It started on the second kick this AM, and rides fine, so as long as it's working I won't touch it. When I have issues I'll look into the upgrades. :D

SpudRider
06-21-2011, 12:27 PM
One possible upgrade to think about.... A buddy of mine has a cherry 1970 Triumph Tiger. First thing he did was replace the points and condensor and put in an electronic ignition conversion kit. No more worries.

Copy that. Right now the bike is well tuned with new points. When they are worn (tomorrow? :roll: ) I'll upgrade to electronic ignition. When the Amal (a fresh rebuild, by the way) is worn out I'd look into a Mikuni conversion. When my right leg is worn out I'll look into a Japanese bike with an electric starter!

After a hundred mile ride those points could do with "setting", and the Amal shipped from the factory NAWO (new all worn out). Contrary to popular *thought*, your right leg will not wear out, but will develop curious "lumps and bumps" (specifically just above your right heel).

The electronic ignition conversion will do away with the points, but most importantly it does away with the mechanical ignition advancer, which is likely sticking.
If your ignition advancer isn't "sticking" it: 1) is about to, and 2) is the only one on the planet that isn't.
Point sets, at least the currently available for purchase point sets, vary widely in quality. It is most important that the points cam be lubed as I have seen the plastic/phenolic rubbing blocks wear out in as little as 500 miles.

Changing out the Amal for a carburetor that "works" will make a "night and day" difference to that, or any, English bike. Doesn't have to be a Mikuni, could be a vacuum Keihin (1/2 of a pair on an old Honda twin), virtually ANYTHING you have hanging about will "work" better.

But you know, at the end of the day, it's your bike. I suggest these things, as things to keep your eyes peeled for (for purchase at the "right price"), to improve your "British experience". The replaced parts can be carefully stored in a box/container to be passed on to the next owner. These changes are not one way, you, or someone else, can easily go back to original.

Now, for that gearshift on the right side: the right side is the "proper" place for a gear shift to "live", maybe you can get a conversion for your Honda to put that right?
How did the Japanese motorcycle manufacturers ever supplant the British? :roll:

Spud :lol:

FastDoc
06-21-2011, 12:41 PM
I took the BSA to work today. It started on the second kick, and did not soil my white pants either. Gosh this relic is fun.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v25/maule/bsaatwork.jpg


There was NO WAY in heaven or earth that the British could have survived the invasion of the Japanese motorcycle industry in general, Honda in particular, with the extremely outdated technology and manufacturing they were producing at the time.

When they saw the CB750-4 introduced, I'm sure that the Brits all dropped their tools and looked for different jobs. Then they rode their Hondas to those new jobs.

Reveeen
06-21-2011, 02:32 PM
Legacy, legacy and no new development money.......

What you have there is a BSA "unit single" designed in 1958 as a 250. With limited funds for new product development the 1958 design was improved and enlarged. Built in workshops, with tools/tooling, in many cases predating WW1.

Japanese industry, on the other hand, has no history (or very limited history) before 1945. Combined with the generous donation of re-construction funds/tooling from the US they were set to dominate any market they desired to dominate. With low production costs, free financing, and no (0) legacy costs, they were laughing all the way to the bank (and did).

Currently the Japanese are suffering just like the British before them (and American industry). They are suffering from "legacy costs". You open plants to manufacture, your workers bargain for pensions and health care, get them, and you pay for these things long past any employee usefulness, adding to the general unit cost of your production.

There are none of these costs in 3rd world countries, and we are seeing investors flocking to those places to invest, and companies closing down here (or in Japan) to manufacture there.

FastDoc
06-21-2011, 02:40 PM
Very interesting perspective and analysis. Intersting history lesson too. It seems the US auto industry stands to gain by paying attention to the British motorcycle industry.

SpudRider
06-21-2011, 03:58 PM
Very interesting perspective and analysis. Intersting history lesson too. It seems the US auto industry stands to gain by paying attention to the British motorcycle industry.
Indeed; thank you, Reveeen. :)

The U.S. automobile industry is also a victim of it's own greed. Corporate greed, greed from the Autoworkers Union, inattention to quality control, and arrogance all combined to bring the inevitable downfall of Detroit. :(

Spud :)

Reveeen
06-21-2011, 04:00 PM
It seems the US auto industry stands to gain by paying attention to the British motorcycle industry.

The part I really find interesting: if the North American governments had not bailed out GM/Chrysler I *think* you would have seen N. American manufacturing close down..... that is not to say: the dealers would close, because I don't feel they would have, they would just be selling their respective products made in other countries.

Ford never asked for, or received, any money, because their N. American operations are supported by worldwide operations. Their company structure is different.

Any company with huge legacy cost simply can't compete with a company with none. The steel industry is virtually non-existent in N. America due to huge legacy costs.

FastDoc
06-21-2011, 04:12 PM
I think that America currently builds cars as good as anyone else in the world. In comfort, quality and performance and value. Witness supercars like the Corvette, Cadillac XLR, and the success of the humble Chevy Malibu and the Ford Fiesta (I know that's a 'world car').

The US auto industry took a mighty dive in the 70's and 80's, but has been coming back since then.

Its a shame and amazing and dangerous the US steel industry is dead. That's going to be a factor in the next war.

katoranger
06-21-2011, 04:56 PM
The only domestic I will consider now is Ford.

Barnone
06-21-2011, 06:08 PM
Just bought a new Dodge 1500 and it's a nice solid truck but back to Doc's BSA.

I never had a problem with the points ignition system or the Amal carburetor on my 1969 BSA. Parts vibrating off was another problem so keep your spanners handy.

Doc's BSA has 9k miles and is doing just fine so why change out the parts?

http://i182.photobucket.com/albums/x85/Skeekah/DropBars_Loudbike_Honda_cb360_Cafe-.jpg
Might want to get one of these shirts that say" Honk if parts fall off"

FastDoc
06-21-2011, 06:51 PM
The BritBike forum guys seem to all agree to leave well enough alone since it's working well.

Weldangrind
06-21-2011, 10:59 PM
...and did not soil my white pants either.

Congratulations on not soiling your pants.

If the displacement is 441cc, I wonder what the optimal Mikuni size would be? Any insight on the Brit bikes forum about that? The reason I ask is that a Mikuni 30mm seems to feed a 200cc Chinese Honda clone very well, and I'm curious about how to apply that to 441cc. I presume there's a formula for that; there is for cars, because car carbs are rated in CFM.

FastDoc
06-21-2011, 11:37 PM
The Brit Bike forum guys are very opposed, it turns out, to such modifications. They like their bikes more or less original. Even electronic ignitions seems controversial over there...

Barnone,

I have a lady friend with shorts like those. Just gotta get her the shirt now...

Barnone
06-22-2011, 08:38 AM
FD,
I found some shirts like that on the net but they all have the lettering on the front. Obviously the designers don't understand the ways of Brit and China bikes. The people behind you need the message.
Of course if I saw a lady that fit those short properly going by on a bike, I would probably fail to read the message anyway.

FastDoc
06-24-2011, 01:03 PM
I took the BSA to a bike show yesterday (Hogs And Dogs)and it received a lot of attention! I was surprised how many (older) people knew what it was and they were happy to share stories of fond memories of Brit Bikes of their youth.

After the show I went to the car/bike show and parade (Cool Desert Nights) and was approached by members of the Antique/classic bike club in town, the Retro Riders. I had no idea there was such a group. I rode with them a while but was sure to get home before dark as I did not trust Mr. Lucas to guide me home at night, and I have no blinkers.

I had a GREAT time and I think I'm going to enjoy being the caaretaker of this old relic for some time to come.

The agenda for today includes changing the tires, fixing/cleaning/adjusting the front brake, and some aluminum polishing.

SpudRider
06-24-2011, 02:29 PM
As a Valley Girl might say, "oh Doc, you are so retro!" :lol:

Spud :D

FastDoc
06-24-2011, 07:10 PM
I spent 3 hours mounting up new replacement reproduction original Dunlops. What a cluster. There is NOTHING about these British bikes that is familiar to a guy used to working on Japanese bikes. I won't say I hate it but lets say that for every blessiung there is a curse. :twisted:

The time included a run to the bike shop to replace a new tube I pinched. :evil:

The capper is the front tire is DEFECTIVE so I get to do it all over again! :evil:

NUTS. :cry:

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v25/maule/DSC06956.jpg


http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v25/maule/DSC06963.jpg

Weldangrind
06-24-2011, 11:45 PM
Maybe it'll balance itself out at speed. :lol:

Bummer about the bad tire. I can imagine how frustrating that was.

FastDoc
06-24-2011, 11:58 PM
Doc's an idiot. :roll:
It occured to me tonight while I was working out.

I was missing a tire iron.

'Nurse, is the tool count correct? I'm ready to close.'

No doctor, you're missing a tire iron.

What do you all suppose a tire iron looks like when it's left in a tire :?:

I re-opened the patient and he's fine now. :D

The way it happened is I had to run out to get a new tube to replace the one I'd pinched. I was tired sore and frustrated so when I removed the bad tube and tossed the tools down to hop on the Gold Wing to go to the shop, the 1000:1 even occured and the iron wound up in the tire, and was mounted. :oops:

At least no harm was done other than time and energy loss, and I didn't have to remove the wheel to rectify the problem.

The BSA rides GREAT on it's new tires! Handling is MUCH improved. I also fixed/cleaned/sanded the front brake while I was in there and it's also much better. :P

FastDoc
06-25-2011, 01:17 AM
I'm considering naming the BSA 'Winston'.

As in Churchill.

Any other thoughts or suggestions?

SpudRider
06-25-2011, 01:20 AM
I'm considering naming the BSA 'Winston'.

As in Churchill.

Any other thoughts or suggestions?
I like Winston. :)

P.S. I'm glad you're not a surgeon. :roll:

Spud :lol:

Barnone
06-25-2011, 09:07 AM
FD,
Is that why they call it practicing medicine? Nurse, I am missing a tire iron, have you seen it?

Just kidding, love this thread.

katoranger
06-25-2011, 10:47 AM
That looks like one of those new square tires.

SpudRider
06-25-2011, 11:35 AM
That looks like one of those new square tires.
Perhaps Doc has discovered a new way to balance motorcycle wheels? ;)

Spud :lol:

FastDoc
06-25-2011, 12:51 PM
To balance it would requre TWO tire irons and since I only have 3 total it would be hard to remount the tire...

Barnone
06-25-2011, 01:29 PM
To balance it would requre TWO tire irons and since I only have 3 total it would be hard to remount the tire...
Maybe the other tire irons are in the Wing or one of your other bikes? Did you check the Pitster 400 tires before you sold it?

BTW, I've been fooling with bikes for over 50 years and have never heard of anyone leaving a tire iron in a tire.

Weldangrind
06-25-2011, 02:07 PM
Aww, you guys used all of my material before I found the tire iron bit. :lol:

FastDoc
06-25-2011, 02:29 PM
It was a dumb thing to be sure. One for the ages.

Maybe that was the cause of the rod knock in the PP400 I had? Maybe I left a tire iron in the crankcase? It sure sounded like that. :idea:

Tire irons for the Gold Wing are carefully engineered. They are titanium and carbon fiber with an integrated fuel cell powered microchip and are self balancing. They have a 300,000 mile warranty. :wink:

FastDoc
06-25-2011, 05:30 PM
Getting there :D . The chrome and aluminum and paint are all polished and new tires installed. The handlebars should be here next week and that sould complete the rolling restoration for now.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v25/maule/DSC06982.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v25/maule/DSC06981.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v25/maule/DSC06980.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v25/maule/DSC06979.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v25/maule/DSC06978.jpg

FastDoc
06-25-2011, 05:33 PM
This is the bruise on my inner/rear/upper thigh from the oil tank cap hitting me while kickstarting. It feels worse than it looks. Decent hematoma. :?

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v25/maule/DSC06984.jpg

Barnone
06-25-2011, 06:59 PM
FD,
Winston is looking very good , not so much the thigh. You need to see a Doctor.

FastDoc
06-25-2011, 08:20 PM
FD,
Winston is looking very good , not so much the thigh. You need to see a Doctor.

No way. They just want your money. 8)

Weldangrind
06-25-2011, 09:34 PM
Looking good. 8) Is that a stainless header?

FastDoc
06-25-2011, 09:54 PM
I believe so.

SpudRider
06-25-2011, 10:21 PM
FD,
Winston is looking very good , not so much the thigh. You need to see a Doctor.
No way. They just want your money. 8)
Ain't that the truth! :P

In regards to Winston, a little polish goes a long way! The bike looks great. :D However, the "ape hanger" handlebars have got to go. ;)

Spud :)

FastDoc
06-26-2011, 02:40 PM
New correct handlebars should be here next week. Keep an eye out for the pics. :D

nx_guy
06-26-2011, 11:38 PM
Old bikes bite!!!!! Been there done that - I'll sign a prescription for some nice beers!! Cheers...

Barnone
07-03-2011, 11:11 PM
New correct handlebars should be here next week. Keep an eye out for the pics. :D
Been keeping an eye out but FD must be off Hog riding.

FastDoc
07-04-2011, 09:44 PM
Just got back from mini-vacation with Miss Megan in Montana. Will report back soon. :D

FastDoc
07-04-2011, 11:19 PM
Here's the bike with the new correct handlebars, tires, mirrors, and switches. I cleaned up the wiring. NOW the bike is looking pretty original and it's handling is much improved. :D

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v25/maule/DSC07002.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v25/maule/DSC07001.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v25/maule/DSC07000.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v25/maule/DSC06999.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v25/maule/DSC06996.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v25/maule/DSC06995.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v25/maule/DSC06993.jpg

SpudRider
07-05-2011, 01:06 AM
Welcome back, Doc! I hope you and Miss Megan had a good time in Big Sky Country. :) Those handlebars look much better! :D

Spud :)

Weldangrind
07-05-2011, 10:22 AM
A definite improvement; the new tires and bars changed the whole attitude.

Barnone
07-05-2011, 11:25 AM
FD,
She looks perfect. Thanks for saving her as original. I'd be interested in her when you get tired of her.

FastDoc
07-05-2011, 11:35 AM
A definite improvement; the new tires and bars changed the whole attitude.

Very much so. The ergonomics and handling are SO much better!

FastDoc
07-07-2011, 01:46 PM
I adjusted the pilot air jet and found out it was set too lean. It started on the first kick 2 times in a row before I called it 'done'. It's never started like that before. I was/am happy. :D

SpudRider
07-07-2011, 03:57 PM
I adjusted the pilot air jet and found out it was set too lean. It started on the first kick 2 times in a row before I called it 'done'. It's never started like that before. I was/am happy. :D
Good for you, and good for you thigh, Brother Bill! :D

P.S. Did you know the thigh photo you posted is upside down? ;)

Spud :)

FastDoc
07-07-2011, 04:09 PM
It's hard to photograph one's own posterior thigh. I did that for you guys. :wink:

SpudRider
07-07-2011, 05:20 PM
It's hard to photograph one's own posterior thigh. I did that for you guys. :wink:
You always go the extra mile for us, Doc. :D Can you rotate the photo; I get dizzy looking at! :lol:

Spud :)

FastDoc
07-07-2011, 05:49 PM
I received (from England) a set of replica stickers. With much research I found out where some/most of them go. I hope to get some placed tonight. Some go on the coil or under the seat or inside the aircleaner and I will get to those when I'm there for something else.

FastDoc
07-12-2011, 11:59 AM
Thank goodness I'm not into BritBikes. Nice looking Bonneville...

http://kpr.craigslist.org/mcy/2462753943.html

Barnone
07-12-2011, 07:37 PM
Thank goodness I'm not into BritBikes. Nice looking Bonneville...

http://kpr.craigslist.org/mcy/2462753943.html
Nice bike. Cal Vickie and tell her she misspelled Triumph twice in her ad.

SpudRider
07-13-2011, 01:50 AM
Maybe it really is a Triump. :lol:

Spud :)

FastDoc
07-13-2011, 01:36 PM
krigs list tends to attrack illertaritus. :wink:

FastDoc
07-13-2011, 01:38 PM
The girl and the bike are about the same age. The girl looks MUCH better though. :P

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v25/maule/IMG_20110710_103344.jpg

SpudRider
07-13-2011, 02:44 PM
That's a great photo, Brother Bill! :D

Spud :)

FastDoc
07-13-2011, 02:50 PM
We met for coffee before church. Needless to say, given the BSA and her skirt we took her car to services. :D

FastDoc
07-13-2011, 08:34 PM
Gotta love the sign above the parking spot. The BSA is a senior citizen. In bike years it's like 100 years old!

I moved it one spot over after I took the picture. :wink:

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v25/maule/bsasenior.jpg

MICRider
07-13-2011, 08:59 PM
Gotta love the sign above the parking spot. The BSA is a senior citizen. In bike years it's like 100 years old!

I moved it one spot over after I took the picture. :wink:

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v25/maule/bsasenior.jpg

Looks fantastic! I'm glad you got rid of the apes, the bike looks so much better now 8)

FastDoc
07-13-2011, 09:18 PM
Rides much better too. The bars and tires made a big difference. Plus a little tuning of the Amal carb, lubing and adjusting the cables, fixing the front brake, it's quite runner now. :D

katoranger
07-13-2011, 11:00 PM
I thought that was your parking space. :wink:

SpudRider
07-13-2011, 11:31 PM
Rides much better too. The bars and tires made a big difference. Plus a little tuning of the Amal carb, lubing and adjusting the cables, fixing the front brake, it's quite runner now. :D
Maybe it's a keeper, Brother Bill. ;)

Spud :)

SpudRider
07-13-2011, 11:33 PM
I thought that was your parking space. :wink:
That's what I also thought, but I refrained from mentioning it, Allen. :roll:

Spud :lol:

FastDoc
07-14-2011, 12:23 AM
I just turned 500 miles on it (since I've had it) tonight. 9,500 original miles so far. :P

I love riding it, but I only consider myself a caretaker of this historical machine. Someday I'll sell it on to another enthusiast who will appreciate it and give the money to World Vision.

But that day may not be for a long, long time! :wink:

katoranger
07-14-2011, 09:30 AM
I thought that was your parking space. :wink:
That's what I also thought, but I refrained from mentioning it, Allen. :roll:

Spud :lol:

Just saying. :D

Reveeen
07-19-2011, 03:29 AM
I love riding it, but I only consider myself a caretaker of this historical machine. Someday I'll sell it on to another enthusiast who will appreciate it and give the money to World Vision.

But that day may not be for a long, long time!

I'm glad you really like it and you now know a part of motorcycling that some of us grew up with (though I'm not sure how you avoided it until now).

I can kind of predict how the story will go, but try to remember: when you find your BSA a bit disagreeable, just put it aside, ride your other bikes, and after a while: drag it out, make the necessary repairs, at your own speed, and ride it again.