Meteor Minor

496cc ohv twin || 420lb || 60mpg || 85mph || 1959-63

Developed from the rare and unimaginatively named 500 Twin, the small RE twin is a much-underrated machine that goes and handles very well, although some spares can be elusive. Under-stressed and wellbuilt, this combination of a 500 engine in a 250 chassis can be had remarkably cheaply. At a recent auction, a complete Meteor Minor project with a sidecar went for only £1500.

Prices: low £1500 || high £4500