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Long distance ride on a classic?

Posted by Brickboy <iframe src='https://members5.boardhost.com/classicbikemart/info/user=Brickboy' width='330' height='300' border=0 style='border:none;'> on December 15, 2024, 12:21 pm

For many years now I've wanted to ride an old Brit single on the Rhyader to Aberystwyth back road along the Vale of Rheidol. I've done it on modern bikes but never a classic.

It's a whole, full day from my place to Aberystwyth, even on the V Strom when you stop for a cuppa, loo and lunch.

It feels like a journey that I'll never make on my Ajay - and tbh the speeds on some of the roads to get there wouldn't really suit it. It is very happy at 40 but above 50 you do start to tire of noise and vibes after a bit.

I'm left wondering whether classics really are for local plodding and that's it or whether a three day trip taking in a lot of back roads on the Ajay is worth it. I'm inclined to think not - the V Strom is an utter joy on any longer trip and has the full luggage, fairing, heated grips, brakes etc and is very relaxing/easy to ride.

So... does anyone on here still use a 50s single to tour in Britain and, if so, got any suggestions about keeping safe and keeping going?! I'm quite confident in the reliability of the bike; it's the extended riding on roads that have faster traffic that bothers me - I don't find it enjoyable.

Re: Long distance ride on a classic?

Posted by nek <iframe src='https://members5.boardhost.com/classicbikemart/info/user=nek' width='330' height='300' border=0 style='border:none;'> on December 15, 2024, 12:35 pm, in reply to "Long distance ride on a classic?"

Learn to ride again, why 40mph?
I have been to the south of France,Borders of Spain, To Holland, France, several times on a pre war 500.
Avoid fast A roads, motorways, Don't even think about keeping up with modern traffic.
In fact for years its been the only bike I'll ride for such journeys on.
A 3 day trip sounds ace
go for it but pick good weather, if we ever have any again

Its less than 40 miles for gawds sake.

Re: Long distance ride on a classic?

Posted by geoff the bonnie <iframe src='https://members5.boardhost.com/classicbikemart/info/user=geoff+the+bonnie' width='330' height='300' border=0 style='border:none;'> on December 15, 2024, 1:01 pm, in reply to "Re: Long distance ride on a classic?"

Spriddler has certainly done long rides on a single as did that bloke who rode a Norton and ended up in Cuba and his head is on a lot of T shirts now.
If you have time Simon, it will be a joy.

Re: Long distance ride on a classic?

Posted by Lannis <iframe src='https://members5.boardhost.com/classicbikemart/info/user=Lannis' width='330' height='300' border=0 style='border:none;'> on December 15, 2024, 12:59 pm, in reply to "Long distance ride on a classic?"

When Kent Shaun came over here to ride, he was on my '55 M21, Geordie Mike was on my '69 441 Victor, and I was on my '69 Firebird Scrambler.

We went 2000 miles on many sorts of roads, mostly with 55 mph speed limits. The M21's happy place was 48 mph, so that's what we all did.

Chose our roads carefully, accelerated to 55 when we needed to for short periods, and had a great couple of weeks, no problems with traffic or the bikes.

Lannis

I don't take health advice from people who think the world is overpopulated.

Re: Long distance ride on a classic?

Posted by Brickboy <iframe src='https://members5.boardhost.com/classicbikemart/info/user=Brickboy' width='330' height='300' border=0 style='border:none;'> on December 15, 2024, 1:09 pm, in reply to "Re: Long distance ride on a classic?"

That sounds great, Lannis. Thank you for such encouraging news... it sounds like I need to do some decent planning and, I guess, a few day-long rides on it and then order some nice weather!!

Cheers,
Simon

Re: Long distance ride on a classic?

Posted by MadMike <iframe src='https://members5.boardhost.com/classicbikemart/info/user=MadMike' width='330' height='300' border=0 style='border:none;'> on December 15, 2024, 2:03 pm, in reply to "Re: Long distance ride on a classic?"

Bryan Jones (RIP) once went from his home in Derbyshire to the BSAOC camping event in the Lake District on a Friday. Unfortunately it clashed with my MadMikes Gathering on the Sunday. Bryan rose early on Sunday morning, packed everything and then rode tomLeicestershire for the MMG, arriving at about 12:00. At about 3:30 he set off for home in Derbyshire.
All done on his old Royal Enfield which never missed a beat.
He also shipped it to the USA and rode many miles in company with others, complete with Marie on the pillion. Again on the RE.

Other opinions may be available but this one is always correct.

Re: Long distance ride on a classic?

Posted by spriddler <iframe src='https://members5.boardhost.com/classicbikemart/info/user=spriddler' width='330' height='300' border=0 style='border:none;'> on December 15, 2024, 6:18 pm, in reply to "Re: Long distance ride on a classic?"

It is very happy at 40 but above 50 you do start to tire of noise and vibes after a bit.

I've had my 1954 350 Matchless for 19 years which had one previous owner - (the Rhodesian Police Force) and has clocked up around 80,000 miles in my possession, probably more as for periods the odometer hasn't worked. It has failed to get me home only twice- a rear puncture in lashing rain and another when the sparking plug blew out of the head- on both occasions less than 5 miles from home. I'm not a true biker, being interested in neither looks nor speed or thrills or rides to the coast or cafes but have used it to add challenge and satisfaction to many long, mostly foreign, camping adventures from Sweden down to Italy and all in between. I never use autoroutes and plan to cover say 200 to 250 miles a day assuming an average speed of 30mph including all stops. My cruising speed, wherever possible is an indicated 55 to 60mph because, due to the engine balance factor, when I get to around 55 almost all vibration magically disappears and it runs like a turbine.
You'll probably know all this but I'll mention it anyway......
The vibration felt in the h/bars can be shifted away from your preferred cruising speed by adding a lead plug to one end of the h/bars by trial and error. Obviously headstock bearings, tyre fit on the rim and wheel balance must be correct.

If the vibration is felt through the footrests it's important to check that the through-studs securing the engine and g/box to the frame plates are tight. Any looseness will create a lot of vibration and wear the casting holes oval when no matter how tight they are the engine and g/box will vibrate within the frame plates.

Your 500 should have a head steady under the petrol tank between the frame top tube and the rocker box and these should be checked for tightness.

As for noise, and I never wear ear plugs, most of the irritating noise will probably be coming from the valve gear and carb inlet chatter. On my 350 there's an inch and a half gap between the nose of the dual seat and the rear of the petrol tank. I've found that stuffing a rag into that gap quietens it a lot.

TBH my last long trip was just pre-Covid to Portugal using hotels. I'm nearly 80 now and for the past ten years have had to ride with only my left arm and hand usable so I'm being a bit prudent with regard to the risks from potholes, inattentive aggressive drivers and an acceptance that I wouldn't bounce well these days, but I've learned a lot and have some wonderful memories.

'There is a tide in the affairs of men
Which taken at at the flood.....'

Re: Long distance ride on a classic?

Posted by Nigel B <iframe src='https://members5.boardhost.com/classicbikemart/info/user=Nigel+B' width='330' height='300' border=0 style='border:none;'> on December 15, 2024, 3:31 pm, in reply to "Long distance ride on a classic?"

I did many long rides on my 4 speed Bullet 350 and (more recent) Classic 500. The 500 possibly has similar performance to your 500 (27hp), but with the obvious advantages of a 5 speed box & modern features such as EFI and alternator electrics. Can't say I found the later disc brake to be much of an improvement on the 350s TLS drum, but I don't ride "on the brakes" anyway, preferring to try to plan ahead and modulate speed with throttle & engine braking.

Always chose more minor A and B roads for preference, only using "faster" A roads and dual carriageways where required. Typically 40-50 mph cruising, mostly in 5th over 35 mph, so minimal gearchanging. Typically 250-320 miles per day, with an early-ish start (for me that means 8 to 8.30), minimal stops (these really kill your average speeds) and aim to arrive at destination between 5 and 6 pm., so 9 to 10 hour days. Typically returning 95-105 mpg, so you can see I am not "caning" it !

Done similar on an MZ TS250/1, some times more - did from near Ardnamurchan Point to Huddersfield on one accasion (384 miles door to door) and home to home via the Ace Cafe on an ETZ251 (also around 385 miles).

Once you hare happy the bike is reliable, go for it ! A very different (more relaxing for me) experience to travelling on a faster bike when you remove the pressure on yourself of having to "keep up" with faster traffic (let the impatient pass) or feel obliged to overtake (not something either the MZ or Classic really excelled at - mainly just tractors) or push on through a series of bends.

Just chill and admire the scenery - and get there when you arrive.

Nigel B.

Re: Long distance ride on a classic?

Posted by Brickboy <iframe src='https://members5.boardhost.com/classicbikemart/info/user=Brickboy' width='330' height='300' border=0 style='border:none;'> on December 15, 2024, 3:35 pm, in reply to "Re: Long distance ride on a classic?"

Thank you, Nigel. I think one of my Christmas and New Year plans will be to check out some gradually extended routes for dry day testing prior to a classic Welsh trip next summer.

Many thanks to IKBA for encouragement!!

Re: Long distance ride on a classic?

Posted by ChazzyB <iframe src='https://members5.boardhost.com/classicbikemart/info/user=ChazzyB' width='330' height='300' border=0 style='border:none;'> on December 15, 2024, 4:44 pm, in reply to "Re: Long distance ride on a classic?"

I did done some extended distances on my AJS 18S a number of times. It's all about confidence in the bike, for me. International Jampot Rally in Holland from Surrey via Dover-Calais, John Bull rallies in Belgium, Masham from Surrey to a rally, etc.

Thinking about it, some of those John Bull rallies Abo/Beeza Bryan was along with us too.

To advertise here, please call...

Re: Long distance ride on a classic?

Posted by JERRY <iframe src='https://members5.boardhost.com/classicbikemart/info/user=JERRY' width='330' height='300' border=0 style='border:none;'> on December 15, 2024, 3:42 pm, in reply to "Long distance ride on a classic?"

Done all that back in the 60's when we had no choice but now I do all my journeys long or short on my big Jap four cylinder bikes and sometimes my 1000cc V twin. The difference is I now have a choice. Just me and I admire riders that still put in the miles on old Brit stuff just not for me anymore. Maybe going to the Dragon rally in Wales from London on a Velo in 1962 put me off

The oldest rocker in town!

Re: Long distance ride on a classic?

Posted by Tonupdave <iframe src='https://members5.boardhost.com/classicbikemart/info/user=Tonupdave' width='330' height='300' border=0 style='border:none;'> on December 15, 2024, 4:43 pm, in reply to "Re: Long distance ride on a classic?"

I have always been a single cylinder nut fortunate never had any troubles on long runs aways holidays in Devon and Cornwall never had any troubles and then the bikes were second hand.
Did drop a valve on the newly opened MI on my 350 17m AJS on the way to the TT from London got it repaired in Northampton. after dismantling it by the roadside.
I've done well over 200 000 miles on the Ariel
Sadly no more

Tonupdave..T.U.D.

Re: Long distance ride on a classic?

Posted by bsa05 <iframe src='https://members5.boardhost.com/classicbikemart/info/user=bsa05' width='330' height='300' border=0 style='border:none;'> on December 15, 2024, 6:11 pm, in reply to "Long distance ride on a classic?"

I rarely post on here these days, but really, this thread deserves a response!

I must have been to France on my 1939 Rudge at least a dozen times, typically covering 600 miles or so in a 5-day trip, including riding at night. I do the same on my 1964 Model 18, which is a little faster, and a little more comfortable. Those trips inevitably include quite a bit of motorway/dual carriageway, and on a girder/rigid they're a literal and metaphorical PITA, a bit easier on the AJS.

I think you can cruise much faster than the 40mph you propose. Even on the Rudge, I'd keep it at 55mph or so on the motorway, and up to 65 occasionally if required. On the AJS 60-65 all the time.

Get out there and do it.

Re: Long distance ride on a classic?

Posted by Andy C <iframe src='https://members5.boardhost.com/classicbikemart/info/user=Andy+C' width='330' height='300' border=0 style='border:none;'> on December 15, 2024, 6:51 pm, in reply to "Long distance ride on a classic?"

From all the other postings, there looks to be no reason why you cannot carry out your "adventure".

FWIW When I had my MZ ETZ 250, I did a 90 mile each way trip to Worcs to visit Laverdabru, only problem was the seat getting uncomfortable towards then end of the journey.

I have also done the same trip 3 times on my Him - OK it is a modern bike, but not exactly high performance.

I think it is all about your mindset, firstly you have to be fairly confident that the bike is up to it, secondly just remind yourself that you are not able to keep up with everything else - just bimble along at a pace that suits you and your bike.

Finally enjoy the ride, on all my trips to Worcester I make loads of stops - usually just drift off along a minor side road / lane and stop and take in the view - a bit of a cliche but it is all about the ride.

If you really want to do it, you will.

Who needs a signature anyway......

Re: Long distance ride on a classic?

Posted by Greeves Rider <iframe src='https://members5.boardhost.com/classicbikemart/info/user=Greeves+Rider' width='330' height='300' border=0 style='border:none;'> on December 15, 2024, 7:27 pm, in reply to "Re: Long distance ride on a classic?"

I did a 200 mile ride last August from Cambridge to Hunstanton, the North Norfolk coast road and back to Cambridge on my 250cc Greeves East Coaster. It coped very well at a cruising speed of 45 - 50 mph.

Re: Long distance ride on a classic?

Posted by Brickboy <iframe src='https://members5.boardhost.com/classicbikemart/info/user=Brickboy' width='330' height='300' border=0 style='border:none;'> on December 15, 2024, 7:53 pm, in reply to "Re: Long distance ride on a classic?"

Right then!!

I'd better get on with the planning - the bike seems great so far and will have plenty of further testing. After that I'd better look at some nice routes!

Thanks all for your encouragement and kindness in not laughing too much! Last time I toured a classic (A50) was very very many years ago!!

Re: Long distance ride on a classic?

Posted by Hants Ian <iframe src='https://members5.boardhost.com/classicbikemart/info/user=Hants+Ian' width='330' height='300' border=0 style='border:none;'> on December 15, 2024, 8:03 pm, in reply to "Re: Long distance ride on a classic?"

My B33 will cruise happily ar 50 to 60 with no problems. With a sidecar on it has done the Elephant and Dragon rallies in the past. Go for it and enjoy the slower pace of life.

The light at the end of the tunnel maybe an oncoming train

Re: Long distance ride on a classic?

Posted by Andy C <iframe src='https://members5.boardhost.com/classicbikemart/info/user=Andy+C' width='330' height='300' border=0 style='border:none;'> on December 15, 2024, 8:05 pm, in reply to "Re: Long distance ride on a classic?"

JFDI as they say

Even if an epic "fail" it will be another memory to look back on.

Who needs a signature anyway......

Re: Long distance ride on a classic?

Posted by G3lcs <iframe src='https://members5.boardhost.com/classicbikemart/info/user=G3lcs' width='330' height='300' border=0 style='border:none;'> on December 15, 2024, 8:25 pm, in reply to "Re: Long distance ride on a classic?"

Why would anyone want to do a long distance ride on a motorcycle unless one had no choice.

Re: Long distance ride on a classic?

Posted by Andy C <iframe src='https://members5.boardhost.com/classicbikemart/info/user=Andy+C' width='330' height='300' border=0 style='border:none;'> on December 15, 2024, 9:53 pm, in reply to "Re: Long distance ride on a classic?"

Dont quite understand that comment.

Who needs a signature anyway......

Re: Long distance ride on a classic?

Posted by Lannis <iframe src='https://members5.boardhost.com/classicbikemart/info/user=Lannis' width='330' height='300' border=0 style='border:none;'> on December 15, 2024, 9:54 pm, in reply to "Re: Long distance ride on a classic?"

You could also ask why anyone would do even a short ride on motorcycle if you had some other choice.

The answer will be the same.

Lannis

I don't take health advice from people who think the world is overpopulated.

Re: Long distance ride on a classic?

Posted by nek <iframe src='https://members5.boardhost.com/classicbikemart/info/user=nek' width='330' height='300' border=0 style='border:none;'> on December 15, 2024, 9:13 pm, in reply to "Re: Long distance ride on a classic?"

A50 was a nice bike,heavy but nicer than an A65 in my view,and underrated.

Re: Long distance ride on a classic?

Posted by geoff the bonnie <iframe src='https://members5.boardhost.com/classicbikemart/info/user=geoff+the+bonnie' width='330' height='300' border=0 style='border:none;'> on December 15, 2024, 9:27 pm, in reply to "Re: Long distance ride on a classic?"

My CZ 175 did well going to London and back in a day. About 180 miles each way and the following year, i did it again. 75 and 76 Earls Court motorcycle shows. Speed averaged at about 55 mph which is fair on a small 2 stroke that would top out at about 70 mph. Good thing with a new CZ is they had very thick seats so comfortable all day

Re: Long distance ride on a classic?

Posted by A65Bill <iframe src='https://members5.boardhost.com/classicbikemart/info/user=A65Bill' width='330' height='300' border=0 style='border:none;'> on December 16, 2024, 10:23 am, in reply to "Long distance ride on a classic?"

When I had my M33 Chariot, I used it for work miles. Bought as a non-runner that wouldn't even kick over, with a stuck clutch, its first shakedown run after a local MOT was 120 miles.
Daily 60 mile roundtrips, including major A6/A45 interchange for about 4/5 months.
Then regular 160 miles each way to Llandod + local stuff while there for a few days each time.
150+ miles each way to Cheshire.
65 miles each way to Boston on many occasions.
Plus trips to club meetings etc etc.
Cruising speed 50/55 mph with rare bursts of 60mph.
No problem with traffic, when necessary could match lorries doing 56mph.
Your trip is, what, 40 miles each way, so with stops, a very nice day out? Just go for it.

Re: Long distance ride on a classic?

Posted by Brickboy <iframe src='https://members5.boardhost.com/classicbikemart/info/user=Brickboy' width='330' height='300' border=0 style='border:none;'> on December 16, 2024, 1:07 pm, in reply to "Re: Long distance ride on a classic?"

Wow! That's impressive.
My trip is about 160m each way - Bath to Aberystwyth and back!

Re: Long distance ride on a classic?

Posted by Lannis <iframe src='https://members5.boardhost.com/classicbikemart/info/user=Lannis' width='330' height='300' border=0 style='border:none;'> on December 16, 2024, 1:41 pm, in reply to "Re: Long distance ride on a classic?"

It's 25% trusting and prepping your bike, 25% being prepared with tools, knowledge, phone and credit card, 25% careful route planning, and the rest is having a 1957 attitude toward time and speed.

Go for it!

Lannis

I don't take health advice from people who think the world is overpopulated.

Re: Long distance ride on a classic?

Posted by nek <iframe src='https://members5.boardhost.com/classicbikemart/info/user=nek' width='330' height='300' border=0 style='border:none;'> on December 16, 2024, 2:35 pm, in reply to "Re: Long distance ride on a classic?"

Starting from Bath? Doddle mate. That road over the mountains is brilliant for a bike, I only ever did it in a van,always meant to go back,never did.
word of advice, sort out accomodation before hand,It can be a bit bleak and welsh weather can surprise.
Take a brew kit as well as sandwiches.

Re: Long distance ride on a classic?

Posted by A65Bill <iframe src='https://members5.boardhost.com/classicbikemart/info/user=A65Bill' width='330' height='300' border=0 style='border:none;'> on December 16, 2024, 2:57 pm, in reply to "Re: Long distance ride on a classic?"

I'd recommend
Bryn Bella Guest House
Run by Mark & Joan, old friends of mine and very bike friendly.
Betws y Coed so ideal for anyone on a bike.

Re: Long distance ride on a classic?

Posted by A65Bill <iframe src='https://members5.boardhost.com/classicbikemart/info/user=A65Bill' width='330' height='300' border=0 style='border:none;'> on December 16, 2024, 2:52 pm, in reply to "Re: Long distance ride on a classic?"

Ah, I misread the Rhayader mention!
I wouldn't try 160 m each way in a day any more. I'm not fit enough.

Re: Long distance ride on a classic?

Posted by nek <iframe src='https://members5.boardhost.com/classicbikemart/info/user=nek' width='330' height='300' border=0 style='border:none;'> on December 16, 2024, 7:54 pm, in reply to "Re: Long distance ride on a classic?"

The best advice I can give for a relaxing ride is

festina lente.

Re: Long distance ride on a classic?

Posted by A65Bill <iframe src='https://members5.boardhost.com/classicbikemart/info/user=A65Bill' width='330' height='300' border=0 style='border:none;'> on December 17, 2024, 6:29 am, in reply to "Re: Long distance ride on a classic?"

Pax Romana is the expected result!

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