LEARNING SWERVES

I so enjoyed reading Alistair Matheson’s Enfield articles and I take my hat off to him for his stoic efforts with his Crusader – well done. It brought back memories of the restoration of my 1965 Continental. I have to confess that I did not refurbish the engine myself but enlisted the services of expert Ray Tew. What a job he did! I have covered over 12,000 miles on Ray’s engine with no trouble at all. The 250 Crusader engine is not for the faint-hearted. Much knowledge, as Alistair found out, is required to do a good job and make these engines reliable.

While the Crusaders were quick, they were not really suited to learner riders, with their fine threads and such like. My primary chaincase, which has been removed to re-tension the chains and clean the gauze filter, now leaks oil and I know that three helicoils are required – a job for next winter.

Alistair has brought another RE 250 back to the road, and I hope he gets his 30,000 miles or so from his engine – that’s how I look at mine.

Ride safe everyone. James French, member 3068

The fall-out / feedback following the three episodes of my Crusader folly have been tremendous. In a good way! I want to say loud and clear what a great magazine RC is. Opening doors, past and present and repeatedly expanding the family of classic bike owners and dreamers. Mark Mumford’s comments in RC194 demonstrate the unfailing comradeship and encouragement. Thank you Mark, reassuring me that I was not such an incompetent. Also Oily Boot Bob who emailed equal support and sympathy. I am so pleased to know we are never alone with our classic machinery. Thank you all.

I am still happy with the way I messed things up! You will be curious perhaps and pleased to hear the Crusader now performs impeccably, not daring to do otherwise with all the eyes now on her! Alistair Matheson, member 13,406