ARE CURRENT BIKES OVER-POWERED?

I managed to get my motorcycle licence in 1955 and have been riding most of the years in between, the last six on R1200/1250RSs, superb machines. I put 8000-plus miles on in the last two years, not withstanding Covid. However, I have recently had a major health problem and have sold the RS and now need a smaller, lighter machine. Looking at the various 300-500cc bikes on the market, I thought I would be disappointed with the low power compared to the RS. Out of curiosity I looked back at my starting bikes from 1955 to the 1970s.

Having had many a thrash around the North Circular before speed limits, out of towns from Ted’s in South Woodford to the Ace

Cafe reaching the ton now and again on a BSA Gold Flash or my 650 Triumph, I looked at the power of these. I was amazed to find that the Gold Flash was only 32hp and, looking further, the must-have bike of the time, a BSA Gold Star DBD500, only made at the very last version 42hp! Even A2 licence limit machines are 47hp now.

So, I expect that in these speed-limited and cameracovered times with an A2 licence bike at 47hp I should be happy. Plus, current bikes, even what are thought of as commuter or starter bikes, have tyres, brakes and suspension that we could not even imagine in the 1970s. I hope to ride for a few more years yet. Alan Mortimer

Hi Alan, You’re absolutely right, modern ‘smaller’ bikes have plenty of power. In addition, they are lighter, more fuel efficient and easier to ride. There’s a lot to be said for them.

Mikko Nieminen