August 2023 Motorcycle Run

Held on 6 August 2023

My plans for Sunday the 6th of fixing our backhoe was changed when I received a text from Allan saying I was going on the motor bike run as leader, noting the list of attendees, and getting an article written for The Radiator.

A quick look at Elders weather website to check if it wasn’t going to be raining or over 35 degrees showed the temperature at 7.30am to be 1.3° Celsius so below even 35° Fahrenheit. Surprisingly the temperature on the day didn’t feel as cold riding as the 14.6° degree maximum for the day indicated.

I didn’t need to panic as Kevin was back from holidays and Peter and Jenny were back from London, but they thought as I had a couple of hours to prepare, I should lead.

There was a good turn up with a variety of bikes and Peter and Jenny’s immaculate MGB.

For me, the star attraction being Peter’s 1950 BSA A10 and dusting sidecar. It did attract some attention from everyone. It also took the pressure off the normal breakdown suspects by not starting as we were about to leave the Senior Citizen’s Clubrooms. After a bit of kicking, it eventually fired up.

Peter assured us that it’s a normal first or second kick after having an engine rebuild and fitting electronic ignition. To prove it the next stop it started first kick.

The run was short with a ride along Riverview Drive to Martins Bend, over the Berri bridge through to Lyrup and the Lyrup club. After refreshments and a round table talk, we headed off in different directions to home.

I’ve had an interest in buying a sidecar and have looked at a couple going through the auctions recently. Peter says he learnt to ride with the sidecar, but they are obviously a different proposition to ride than a solo. The great learning tool, YouTube, gives a rundown on how to ride them but I think I’m reconsidering.

I’m told having extra ballast (wife) in the chair helps!

Trevor

Attendees

Images