Editor’s welcome
Welcome to another edition, somewhat incredibly lockdown number four. At least we’re a ‘little bit’ more normal now – I even managed my first pint in a pub since March 22, when we had a ride over to a ‘classics on the green’ event at a pub 15- odd miles away Sunday last.
Though primarily cars, the pub landlord was pleased to have us turn up and drop oil on his car park, and it was good to chat with lots of people who wanted to ask questions, particularly about the Sunbeam’s hand change, lever throttle unfamiliarity. It’s good sometimes to be at non- classic motorcycle things, as it exposes our motorcycles to a different audience.
As things become a little more normal, we’re still somewhat restricted, so you’ll have to endure a couple more from our shed this issue too; but at least Gary Chapman was able to visit, so the pictures are better!
It was good fun to get the Montgomery and the Scott out, though they do make me realise how lucky I am to have the so-non-temperamental and easy to use Sunbeam as my go-to option. Though I suppose familiarity plays a part in that, too.
Talking of Gary, our men Steve Wilson and Andy Westlake are both chomping at the bit to get some days in with him, to restock are ever-barer cupboards.
With regards to my dad’s machines, last issue I mistakenly said the engine and gearbox in dad’s AJS were stamped K9; that should have read frame and gearbox. The engine is K8. I also erred on the extra, additional hand oil pump too, detailing its operation the wrong way round; it releases oil into the engine on its way up. Apologies.
Other things that have come to light since last issue include learning that the KTT featured in our archive picture last month (KTT 824) is on display in the National Motorcycle Museum in Birmingham, where, hopefully before too long, we’ll all be able to inspect it anew.
There’s good news in the offing too, with museum reopenings at Sammy Miller’s and the Lakeland
Museum both occurring, while ’Normous Newark will be returning on August 16, one of the same days Bonhams is holding its summer sale – though public won’t be admitted, viewing days in the week preceding have been greenlighted. It all feels promising, and while of course there’ll be procedures to follow, it’s all progress in the right direction.