Sprocket Dec 2020 | Jan 2021

Official Journal of THE CLASSIC MOTORCYCLE CLUB OF VICTORIA INC. Committee 2020 / 2021

Ian Snadden Graham Boulter John Best Rob Mullins President Vice President Secretary Treasurer M: 0408 132 626 M: 0407 769 295 M: 0403 704 274 M: 0418 366 580 [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected]

Peter Hansen James Linton Jeremy Coffey Richard Sommerville Membership Secretary Club Captain Editor (Sprocket) Club Permit Officer M: 0427 201 168 M: 0415 781 516 M: 0409 357 268 M: 0413 029 482 [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] Office Bearers Appointed by Committee

Rob van Lohuizen Ray Isles Mike Walker Wally Walsh Committee Committee SMWR Co-ordinator NMWR Co-ordinator M: 0433 811 645 P: (03) 9584 4168 M: 0447 503 128 M: 0420 926 316 [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected]

Reg Hammond Bill Washington Andy Symons Steve Inman Regalia Librarian Geelong Representative Web Administrator P: (03) 9435 7542 M: 0418 509 153 M: 0419 237 110 M: 0419 113 940 [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] MOTOR The Journal of the Classic CYCLE Sprocket CLUB OF Motorcycle Club of Victoria Inc. VICTORIA INC.

Incorporation No. A000784G Inside This Issue Mister Ed’s December Editorial Club Contact Details ...... 4 his has been a most challenging year, starting Christmas Message ...... 5 off with the catastrophic bush fires closely fol- The President’s Message ...... 6-7 lowed by the corona virus pandemic. I’m glad Who is this Handsome Man? – Dec Quiz...7 Twe are at the tail-end of 2020, relatively unscathed. Geelong’s 3rd Sunday Run – Nov ...... 8-9 Good to see club rides restarting, with a couple of Building an Experimental Norton reports in this issue. Article by Ian Richsteig ...... 10-14 NSW Department of Transport Tutorial .... 14 I was saddened to hear of the death of club member Vale – Kim Coillet ...... 15 Kim Coillet. I first meet Kim in 1958 when we were Sprocket Interview – Janet Walker...... 16-17 at Bennettswood State School but we lost contact Minutes of Dec Committee Meeting ... 18-19 after grade 6. A common interest in classic motor- Metric Thread Chart ...... 20 cycles saw us meet again 55 years later when Kim Sprocket Snippets from Yesteryear ... 21-23 joined the Club. A dentist by profession, with an Track Talk 1 by David Mac ...... 24-25 active interest in vintage cars, veteran, classic and Resurrecting the Mighty 1936 AJS V4 current motorcycles. A good-natured, thoroughly Article by Dave Baker ...... 26-27 decent man. Kim’s vale is on page 15. SMWR Report – Dec ...... 28-31 The NSW Department of Transport, in the inter- Warren Hicks Auction Collection ...... 32-33 ests of road safety, have developed a tutorial “Ride st Geelong’s 1 Sunday Run – Dec and a to Live”. This is a computer program designed Western District Ramble ...... 34-35 to help motorcyclists improve their riding skills. Answer to December Quiz ...... 37 There is a link to this tutorial on page 14. Classifieds ...... 38-39 Club Regalia For Sale ...... 39 I wish you all a most enjoyable Christmas and New Year. Cover Bike Details: Two Wheel Camping Ed. - A Triple Treat The Classic Motorcycle Club of Victoria Inc. The Classic Motorcycle Club of Victoria PO Box 533, Elsternwick Victoria 3185 Inc. meets at 8pm on the third Wednesday Website: www.cmccv.org.au of each month at Sturgess Hall, Chatfield Incorporation Number: A007884G Avenue, Balwyn (Deepdene). The Club was founded on March 12th 1971, in order to foster Melway Ref: P46 A8 the ownership and riding of classic motorcycles 25 years Annual Membership Fees are presently and older and to encourage future generations to share this $50 for Single Members and $55 for passion. Family Membership. There is a Joining Fee of $100 for new members. This publication contains general information, which should not be relied upon without specific advice from a Original articles in Sprocket are copyright to the suitably qualified professional. The Editor, Authors, and Classic Motorcycle Club of Victoria Inc. but may The Classic Motorcycle Club of Victoria, Incorporated, be reproduced without charge by any club with expressly disclaim liability for anything done, or omitted similar aims, provided they are not used for profit, to be done, by any person in consequence with the contents and recognition of source is quoted. of this publication. Sprocket CLUB CONTACT DETAILS & DEADLINES

All Club Permit Applications and Renewals, (accompanied by a self-addressed stamped envelope) send to: - CLUB PERMIT OFFICER Classic Motorcycle Club of Victoria, PO Box 8030, Seymour South, VIC 3660

All Membership Applications and Matters, send to: - MEMBERSHIP SECRETARY Classic Motorcycle Club of Victoria, PO Box 533, Elsternwick VIC 3185

All Sprocket Articles, Letters to the Editor, Classified Items/For Sale/Wanted etc, send to: - THE EDITOR, Jeremy Coffey Email: [email protected], Mobile: 0409 357 268 PLEASE NOTE: DEADLINE FOR SPROCKET ARTICLES IS THE THIRD WEDNESDAY OF EACH MONTH

All other Correspondence to be sent to: - THE SECRETARY Classic Motorcycle Club of Victoria, PO Box 533, Elsternwick VIC 3185 Website: www.cmccv.org.au

LIFE MEMBERS Hazel Budds Ray Isles Jack Youdan Ian Richsteig David Langridge Burger Drake Graeme Randall FORMER LIFE MEMBERS NOW DECEASED Farrell Flanagan Philip Irving Jack Budds Tony Border Robert McLennan Brian Dodds James Barker Warren Hicks Alan Woodbridge Ian Kennedy Jan Kennedy

Page | 4 DEC 2020 | JAN 2021 For the Classic Motorcycle Enthusiast

On behalf of the CMCCV Committee, I would like to extend a Merry Christmas and a healthy, happy & safe New Year to all our members & their families.

... Let’s hope 2021 brings us more joy than 2020 did ... Merry 0 Christmas Ian Snadden President

DEC 2020 | JAN 2021 Page | 5 Sprocket President’s Message - December 2020

ell this is my last President’s message for the year and what a year it’s been, unfortunately with the lows outweighing the highs most of us will not be sad Wto see the end of 2020 and look forward to better and bigger things in 2021. From the devastating bushfires that incinerated parts of our beautiful country earlier this year, to lockdowns and the tragic deaths of many as a result of covid, this year will surely go down on record as one we will never forget. It appears that as a country we have managed thus far to limit and control the spread of this incredibly infectious virus and here’s hoping that this continues until we have the benefit of a vaccine. Australia now must surely be the envy of the rest of the world and we need to congratulate ourselves on the incredible job that collectively we have all done in turning the numbers around the way we have. Anyone interested in moving to the USA? This year we have lost a number of iconic Club members who have sadly passed away, including two Life Members. Our thoughts and best wishes remain with their families, these members who gave so much may be no longer with us but they will never be forgotten. As I write this message Premier Dan as of yesterday (Sunday 23rd November) announced further easing of restrictions allowing us to gather in groups of up to 50 people in outdoor public spaces. As a result, your committee felt it was now timely to recommence Club rides but in strict accordance with the DHHS guidelines. By the time you read this message three Melbourne Club rides would have been run and I hope those who attended enjoyed a long overdue catch up with fellow Club members out on the road again in a covid safe manner of course. Geelong members being regional Victoria based were able to recommence their runs a month or so ago. Hopefully 2021 will see a return of all Club events, rides, rallies and meetings and as soon as we can hold an Annual General Meeting we will. We have considered running vir- tual meetings by Zoom however with the number of members we have without computer access or ability to partake in such modes of communication it was felt that it would be fairer to wait until we can return to the conventional style of meetings. I guess the planet won’t stop rotating on it’s axis if the Classic Motorcycle Club of Vic delays holding meetings until we are able to return to having conventional meetings that can be attended by all members who wish to. We are also hopeful of continuing our planning of the Club’s 50th Anniversary Rally and successfully holding this Rally in November 2021 as previously advised. There is light at the end of the tunnel, fingers crossed for a close to normal 2021. (continued next page)

Page | 6 DEC 2020 | JAN 2021 For the Classic Motorcycle Enthusiast

On behalf of the committee and myself I would like to wish members, their partners and their families a Merry Christmas and a healthy happy and prosperous 2021. Ian Snadden, President CMCCV.

Who is the handsome young man in the photos? The rider is an active Club member.

You can find out who the rider is and see what he looks like today, in this issue of Sprocket.

DEC 2020 | JAN 2021 Page | 7 Sprocket GEELONG CHAPTER RUN REPORT 3rd SUNDAY OF THE MONTH 15/11/20

t last things are getting back to near Covid normal and 8 eager riders turned out on a balmy Sunday looking forward to a ride around old haunts and to catch up Awith old faces! The second biggest interest of the day was Nick’s guest David MacInnis’s brand spanking new Royal Enfield Interceptor 650 twin which he had just taken delivery of a few days prior and had less than 100kms on the clock. David had not been on bikes for quite a few years and was a little nervous plus his bike was still running in. So it was suggested to Noel the leader to not “smoke the rubber” on our intended trip out to Anakie. (He took this to heart and we had a very “relaxed” ride out there)! We started out the usual way through Ceres and the Barrabool Hills towards Bannockburn. Although most riders knew the way, proper and effective corner marshaling was employed mostly for the benefit of showing David how it’s done. (It must have worked because nobody got lost)! We turned right off the Ballarat Hwy into Bakers Bridge Road then through Sutherlands Creek. Then a left turn down some nice twisty bits towards Thompson’s Bridge and then back up through more nice curves over Russell’s Bridge back towards Maude. Right turn on Thompson Road at Maude, leaving out the usual slight bit of gravel and very sharp turns of Lynch Road and O’Neil’s Lane in deference to David. Then keeping straight along Pringles Road to Anakie Road. “The Old Workshop Café” in Anakie was our coffee stop where good fellowship was enjoyed until we went our separate ways home. Good to get out! Stan Rogers.

List of Riders on the 3rd Sunday Geelong Run 15/11/20: Rider Machine Year Noel Wills Moto Guzzi Le Mans 1983 (Leader) Stan Rogers BMW R80 RT 1985 (TEC) Rod & Carolyn Dutton Kawasaki Z650 1978 Bernie Hollander BMW R100S 1977 Steve Kirtley Yamaha XJ650 1983 Nick Oakley BMW K100 RS 1988 David MacInnis (Guest) RE Interceptor 650 2020 (continued next page)

Page | 8 DEC 2020 | JAN 2021 For the Classic Motorcycle Enthusiast

PHOTOS FROM THE 3rd SUNDAY GEELONG RUN

ANAKE STOP. NOEL AND DAVID AND HIS NEW ROYAL ENFIELD HIS GUZZI LE MANS INTERCEPTOR 650 TWIN. NICK, NOEL AND BERNIE ADDING COLOUR

BLUE SKY AND FLUFFY CLOUDS NOTHING LIKE THE ROAD AHEAD THROUGH THE HILLS

DAVID’S NEW ROYAL ENFIELD INTERCEPTOR WITH NARY A SCRATCH

TWISTY BITS COMING UP

DEC 2020 | JAN 2021 Page | 9 Sprocket BUILDINGBUILDING ANAN EXPERIMENTALEXPERIMENTAL NORTONNORTON by Ian Richsteig

n 1940, Norton Motors of Bracebridge Street, Aston Birmingham, were a major supplier of solo motorcycles and outfits to the British war effort. In fact, they were second only to the major B.S.A. conglomeration in the total number of motorcycles supplied during the ISecond World War. Norton were supplying large numbers of 500cc Model 16H side valve solos and low numbers of 633cc Model Big 4 side car drive outfits. The Big 4 was supplied to a specification which required a top speed of 40M.P.H. By late 1940 the War Office approached Norton for an outfit capable of 55M.P.H. on the road. As the 633cc engine supplied in the cur- rent Big 4 was the largest engine Norton manufactured, this necessitated Norton purchasing a side valve v-twin engine of 1096cc capacity from J.A.P. in London. This is the story of a project to recreate a replica of this particular experimental Norton. The project started to coalesce over supper after a club meeting in the early 1990’s. I was talking to Triumph aficionado, Les Francis. Les had just finished a complete restoration of a W.D. Triumph single and we were discussing W.D. designs. I mentioned to Les that I was trying to restore the rear sidecar drive shaft on my Big 4 as most were cut off before the outfits were sold to the general public as the army believed that the public could not handle an outfit with a locked sidecar wheel and no differential. Next club night, I was surprised when Les gave me a small box. Inside was the original dog clutch gear set for the Norton he had borrowed from his mate Jack, in McLaren Vale. Another club member, Doug Sherlock, asked what I had and after inspecting the gears, said to get a lump of 4140 alloy steel and he would machine up a couple of sets of gears for me. When I returned the borrowed gears to Les, to return back to his friend in S.A., Les came back with a message that Jack had to sell all of his Norton parts and had listed them all. I said that there were a few parts that I was interested in, but in discussion, Jack advised that it was all or nothing and that I had 6 months to make a decision. So, with car and trailer I made the trip to collect everything. After unloading at home, other priorities took over. Included in the cache of parts brought back was a complete side car drive Norton Big 4 including the sidecar and chassis. This was restored and over the next couple of years and the resulting restored outfit being in demand for Anzac Day displays at the Sir Gustav Nossal High School in Berwick. While this was happening, the W.D. Norton 16H solo was restored and also used for displays at the Nossal High School and recently at the Emerald Library for Anzac and Remembrance Day displays. The Nossal High School principal asked if any other machines could be displayed, which initiated the commencement of this project.

(continued next page)

Page | 10 DEC 2020 | JAN 2021 For the Classic Motorcycle Enthusiast

BUILDING AN EXPERIMENTAL NORTON - continued As Norton was only a relatively small producer prior to the war, consideration was made as to how they would have done the conversion. I thought that as much of the current Big 4 cycle parts would have been used where possible. Firstly, an engine was needed. The original Norton experimental outfit used a J.A. PRESTWICH L.T.Z. type 1096cc v-twin side valve engine, but these engines are not very easily found. They were used in the Brough Superior 11-50 motorcycle. As luck would have it, a visit to ‘’The Motorcycle Emporium’’, a business run by David Gittus, in Maldon, Central Victoria, resulted in finding the engine. With the engine sourced, the next step was to try to fit the engine to a suitable prewar Norton diamond frame. Looking at the dimensions of JAP engines in the library book highlighted significant differences between the 750cc and 1096cc engines. The 750 cc was a 50° engine, but the correct LTZ 1096cc engine was a 60° v-twin. The rear crankcases were also different widths. Strangely, it would appear that the 50° engine would seem to fit into a Norton diamond frame but the extra 10° of the L.T.Z. motor would require modifying the frame. In the back of my shed was an old frame that was missing the front down tube. This would allow the rear of the engine to be correctly mounted to ensure the alignment with the gearbox could be achieved. Fitting the correct Norton prewar rear engine plates ensures the gearbox is mounted correctly in the frame. Now the width of the two spac- ers could be made to widen the L.T.Z. rear crankcase to the same width as the standard Norton engine, and the engine could now be fitted to the slave frame. Careful measurement showed that the frame would need slight stretching to allow the front down- tube to clear the front cylinder. The obvious answer was to take the engine and gearbox fitted to the damaged frame with the front down- tube missing and a genuine W.D. Big Four frame to the acknowledged frame expert, Bob Martin in Ferntree Gully, and ask him to modify the genuine frame to take the engine cor- rectly fitted with the front downtube in place. Bob achieved this and now the engine fitted the standard frame and gearbox. ENGINE FITTED INTO FRAME (continued next page)

DEC 2020 | JAN 2021 Page | 11 Sprocket

BUILDING AN EXPERIMENTAL NORTON - continued The next issue to be resolved was that the original single cylinder petrol tank wouldn’t fit with the v-twin engine in place. This was easily resolved by commissioning a new tank to be made. With the girder forks and wheels fitted, the now mobile machine was taken over to master craftsman Bernie Willet to fabricate a new tank to make allowances for the now fitted v-twin engine and the different carburettor positioning. Next stage was to set up the primary drive. The L.T.Z. engine, like most J.A.P. engines, uses a cush drive on the engine sprocket, but Norton always had a cush drive fitted in the clutch. So, the main shafts were different. I wanted to use the standard Norton clutch as well as to be able to use Norton engine sprockets to get the chain alignment and gearing correct. Another club member suggested I speak to the late Neil Street AM. At the time, Neil was one of the acknowledged JAP engine experts. After discussing the project, the engine was left with Neil and shortly afterwards, the engine now had the drive side flywheel fitted with a new mainshaft to take standard Norton engine sprockets and a new big end bearing fitted.

FIRST MOCK UP AFTER FRAME ADJUSTMENT

The photos above and next page show the first mock ups of the now modified frame and petrol tank and some of the major cycle parts fitted. The project was now starting to progress and it now only would only require fitting of standard Norton parts to complete the project. (continued next page)

Page | 12 DEC 2020 | JAN 2021 For the Classic Motorcycle Enthusiast

BUILDING AN EXPERIMENTAL NORTON - continued

FIRST MOCK UP DRIVE SIDE

A call from my powdercoater then put the cat amongst the pigeons. After many years of dependable service, Clive had rung to advise that he was closing his business down and to get anything to him immediately if I wanted any new powdercoating done. All components were stripped from the frame and other required parts collected and dropped off for paint- ing. A box of lustreless olive drab powder was obtained and all parts, large and small, were suitably painted and taken home. Another couple of years passed when the Nossal High School principal asked how the project was progressing. Assembly commenced with the aim of having the machine ready for the 2016 Anzac Display. The crankcases were aqua blasted and coated with a clear Alodine© aerospace conver- sion coating to prevent the formation of any white corrosion products. New bearings were fitted and the flywheels fitted to the crankcases. The bottom end felt good but crankshaft end float needed to be adjusted. Barrels were sent out for reboring and new pistons obtained to match. So that the bottom end could be fitted to the frame, the endfloat needed to be deter- mined and adjusted. When the drive side crankcase was removed to shim the flywheels, my attention was drawn to what appeared to either be a casting line or a hairline crack between (continued next page)

DEC 2020 | JAN 2021 Page | 13 Sprocket

BUILDING AN EXPERIMENTAL NORTON - continued the mainshaft and the big end. Testing with a dye penetrant confirmed the worst fears of a hairline crack in the cast iron flywheel. Apparently, a common problem with cast iron J.A.P. flywheels. The only option was to get new flywheels machined in steel rather than cast iron. This was entrusted to an engineering shop in Bayswater North. The flywheels have been manu- factured and the engine is currently being balanced to the correct balance factor so assembly can recommence. Ian Richsteig. TO BE CONTINUED AT A LATER DATE.

The NSW Department of Transport has developed a program to help motorcycle riders improve their riding skills. This is designed to run on a computer, tablet or smart phone. It is challenging. https://ridetolive.nsw.gov.au/hpt/index.html?type=recreational&id=1

Page | 14 DEC 2020 | JAN 2021 For the Classic Motorcycle Enthusiast

Vale KIM COILLET

Sadly, Kim pway on the 25th November as a result of complications from a stroke he suffered in October. Kim was 74 years old. Kim joined our Club in 2013 – member M593. Kim’s passion for motorcycling began at an early age riding daily to University. At the time of his passing Kim owned a BMW FR800 and a Ducati, his favourite was the Ducati but his regular ride was the BMW, which according to Kim offered greater reliability. Kim’s last ride with the Club was the Pub Run to Jamieson in March this year on his BMW. Members who knew Kim will remember him as a happy and friendly fellow member who shared our passion, with passion. Kim was a retired Dentist. A good man gone. Our deepest sympathy to Kim’s family. Ian Snadden President

DEC 2020 | JAN 2021 Page | 15 Sprocket Sprocket Interview

Our Sprocket interview this month is with Janet Walker

Sprocket – Janet, how long have you been riding a motorcycle? About 23 years.

Sprocket – What was the first bike you owned? Suzuki GN 250

Sprocket – What has been your favourite bike out of those that you have owned? I have only had 3 motorbikes. The first, my learners bike (GN 250), a 600 Suzuki Bandit but my present bike a Honda VTR 250 is the best one for me.

Sprocket – What is your favourite or most memorable riding location / destination? I would say the trip we had over to Perth and back. Mike on his BMW, me on the Honda. We used lots of the backpackers accommodation all of which was very good. One of the

(continued next page)

Page | 16 DEC 2020 | JAN 2021 For the Classic Motorcycle Enthusiast highlights was when Mike took off to pass a mighty road train, my, I was feeling, shall have to catch him up, so I opened-up the little Honda and off she took. Well did she go, she took off so fast that I was almost going to overtake the BMW too. You beauty I thought better ease off now before Mike gets a shock.

Sprocket – What is the bike of your dreams that you’d buy if you won Tattslotto? Probably take off overseas, UK & France and hire an equivalent bike to mine, as I don’t think I could get better than the Honda for me.

Sprocket – What is something that your fellow Club members probably don’t know about you? Loved horse riding as a kid in Wychwood Forest, rode a Lambretta scooter and banger rac- ing (ladies’ race) as a teenager. My sport now is playing badminton once we resume after this lockdown.

Sprocket – Favourite meal? Fish as I always like to have room for a dessert.

Sprocket – Favourite drink? Tokay wine and the occasional galic coffee.

Sprocket – Any embarrassing moments you would like to share with us? I did once get my head chopped off at a Saturday dinner and show in Kryal Castle by the magician. This was back in the nineties, one of the Ballarat Winter Wander Rallies organised by Bruce Armfield and the Ballarat members, shan’t be sitting in the aisle seat next time that’s for sure.

Sprocket – Any suggestions you may have regarding the future direction of the Club. Well the reason I got to ride my own bike was because being a pillion was not for me, I’m glad I got my learners then my full license, so ladies have a go, the Classic Club needs you.

Thanks Janet, for sharing a little bit about yourself with us.

DEC 2020 | JAN 2021 Page | 17 Sprocket

Minutes of the Committee Meeting – 8th December 2020 Meeting held at 2 Gough St, Elsternwick and opened by President Ian Snadden at 7.30pm.

Present: Ian Snadden, Graham Boulter, Rob Mullins, Jeremy Coffey, Ray Isles, Richard Sommerville, James Linton, Peter Hansen, John Best. Apologies: Peter Cullen, Rob Van Lohuizen. Visitors: nil. Minutes of the 10 June Committee Meeting: • As published in July 2020 Sprocket are a true and accurate record of the meeting. Moved: J. Linton Seconded: J. Coffey. Business Arising from Minutes: • Regalia Officer position 2021– member Ashley Scott has volunteered. Correspondence in: • club’s insurance renewal invoice. Correspondence out: • Submitted FIVA Socio Economic Survey (Federation Internationale de Vehicules Anciens (FIVA). Membership Secretary: • Two new members since October • P. Cullen will hand over duties to P. Hansen on 14 December. Treasurer’s Report as at 31 October: General Account: $11,417.21 Rally Account: $6,119.45 Investment Accounts: $20,529.33 Total Funds: $38,065.99 Motion: that the Treasurer’s report be accepted: Moved: R. Mullins Seconded: G. Boulter. Club Captain: • Geelong members started rides in October, Melbourne rides on 1 December. • 2021 – Rides are planned for January and February • 2021 – Rallies are planned, Inverloch mid April, Brass Monkey in July at Thornton, 50th Anniversary Rally in November at Port Fairy. Details to follow in Sprocket • 2020-21 Captain’s Trophy will start from Dec 1, 2020 to July 2021.

(Minutes of the CM continued next page)

Page | 18 DEC 2020 | JAN 2021 For the Classic Motorcycle Enthusiast

Minutes of the Committee Meeting – 8/12/20 (continued) General Business: • Renewal of club’s insurance policy. Motion: that the Committee approve payment for renewal of the club’s insurance policy 2020-2021 as per invoice submitted by Marsh (JLT). Moved: R. Mullins Seconded: I. Snadden The Motion was unanimously supported. • AGM 2020 and 2021 J. Best has submitted two AGM/financial reporting deferral requests to Consumer Affairs Victoria during the 2020 pandemic lockdown period. The meeting agreed that the club’s next AGM should be held in June 2021. • General Meetings at present social distancing requirements prohibit General Meetings. Additionally the Deepdene meeting rooms are closed by the Council until further notice. Alternate meeting options are being considered. • 50th Anniversary Rally Planning has resumed and contact re-established with RACV re sponsorship which has been confirmed. • * 50th Anniversary badge Motion: that the Committee approve the placing of an order for 150 50th Anniversary badges as per updated quote tabled by J. Best. Moved: J. Best Seconded: I. Snadden. The Motion was unanimously supported. • Planning to resume 2021. Accommodation deposit has been paid, the rally date changed, some rides explored. Catering venues to be checked following the pandemic. • Sprocket 2021 President Ian thanked Jeremy and Tania for their production efforts during the year, particularly the transition from print to digital delivery. Most feedback regarding the change has been positive. The December issue will be for December 2020/January 2021. • 2021 calendar President Ian thanked Graham for his calendar concept and production management of the project which has been very well received. Other General Business: • A Club Permit Scheme issue was discussed. Ian thanked Rob for his hospitality and closed the meeting at 9.30 pm.

John Best, Secretary.

DEC 2020 | JAN 2021 Page | 19 Sprocket

Page | 20 DEC 2020 | JAN 2021 For the Classic Motorcycle Enthusiast

Sprocket Snippets from Yesteryear This month’s Sprocket from yesteryear is December 1990. The front cover features a 1961 Triumph Bonneville T120R (owner unknown) and the article is the clubs 1990 concourse. Current members whose bike’s get a mention are Colin Borthwick, Tom Anthony and Neal Videan. Graham Boulter

(continued next page)

DEC 2020 | JAN 2021 Page | 21 Sprocket

Sprocket Snippets from Yesteryear - continued

(continued next page)

Page | 22 DEC 2020 | JAN 2021 For the Classic Motorcycle Enthusiast

Sprocket Snippets from Yesteryear - continued

DEC 2020 | JAN 2021 Page | 23 Sprocket

TRACK TALK 1

It’s 1976, Philip Island Motor Racing Circuit. New Year’s Day weekend meeting.

The 7R’s large open megaphone is bellowing her classic music as the twitchy chronometric tacho hits 7000 rpm and I clonk the Burman into 4th gear accelerating hard past the original control tower on the start finish straight. I feel a heavy knock on my left shoulder just as she steps to the right with the usual island cross wind as you go past the small buildings.

What hit me? A bird? (Always possible at the island). She is slowing and I have no drive as I stay to the outside of the sweeping right hander now known as “Doohan Corner”, then onto the grass. No drive, no rear chain! It’s just gone. I push her a safe distance away from the track and jealously watch the classic machinery hurtle down into Southern Loop. Waiting and collecting my thoughts, it was obviously the chain that “tapped” me on the shoulder on its way past, after spooling neatly off the rear sprocket to beat me into the corner. I think I nearly fainted at the realisation of what could have happened if the chain had tangled with the primary drive, the frame or back wheel – OMG!

7R PHILIP ISLAND 1976 (continued next page)

Page | 24 DEC 2020 | JAN 2021 For the Classic Motorcycle Enthusiast

TRACK TALK 1

Between events, the Hartwell Club van and trailer collected us for the ungracious trip back to the pits. “The Pits” were the pits back then, just a grass paddock and gravel tracks. None of the luxurious pit garages, amenities, cafes and landscaped corporate splendour that now adorns the world class Philip Island Grand Prix Circuit. They should have preserved the “Heritage” style track surface, just as a reference for the current “Billiard Table” track. In the 70’s, the track condition was less than a ‘C’ grade country road made from very course bitu- men and of course, the ridges, grooves and holes to compliment the effect. But it was grippy. Like Mt Gambia, you could run any old tyre and get grip, but if you fell off, it was like feed- ing your leathers through a garden mulcher. I believe the stories that old man Lukey grazed cattle there in between race meetings and clubs had pre-meet working bees to clean up the “Cow Pats” on the track. This was “The Island” so the magic was always there as it still is.

Back in the paddock, I’ve got my head buried in behind the clutch threading a new chain onto the gearbox sprocket when I get another tap on the shoulder. What the …? I look up and there is a chap dangling a full length piece of rear chain in front of me. Is this yours? He was a corner marshall who had seen and retrieved the chain from the grass near where he was standing. Oh great, I could have been responsible for causing grievous bodily harm to an official – weapon of choice, a flying chain. 44 years later I still wonder if I put the connecting link spring clip on the wrong way round?

(The Photo shows – The McLennan “AJS Hobby Racing Team” and Paul Dickson describing the excitement of riding Don Glazner’s very quick 350 Velo over Lukey Heights. *in the background is the 70’s version of the control complex.)

Ride Safe, David Mac. 6

DEC 2020 | JAN 2021 Page | 25 Sprocket Resurrecting the Mighty 1936 AJS V4 Submitted by Dave Baker

he AJS V4 was an advanced engineering effort undertaken by the British motor- cycle company in the mid-1930s, the first prototype was intended as a road-going Tmotorcycle and it was shown at the Olympia Show in 1935. BUILDING THE AJS V4 RACER The road-going version of the V4 didn’t get a green light for production, it’s not known why exactly but it likely had something to do with the fact that it would have been exceed- ingly expensive, and the world was still very much in the grips of the austerity period of the Great Depression. In 1936 a new racing version of the AJS V4 was unveiled, it had alloy barrels and indi- vidual heads with exposed hairpin valve springs, a common crankcase, a 180° crankshaft with forked conrods, a single overhead cam per cylinder, a Zoller supercharger, an Amal TT carburettor, and a 5-speed Burman transmission. The bike showed much promise but its engine was complex, and it suffered from a lack of development time. AJS sent the bike to the 1936 Isle of Man Senior TT but although it was very quick, it was unreliable, and suffered mechanical failures. A rebuilt version appeared in 1938 that had been considerably redesigned with better suspension, brakes, and some engine modifications. This new version was sent to compete in the 1938 Senior Isle of Man TT but suffered overheating issues and retired – this all but ended the air-cooled version of the AJS V4, but the story doesn’t quite end there. Rather than give up, AJS brought in Matt Wright from New Imperial to do a blank- slate redesign. The new engine was liquid-cooled with barrels and heads cast in pairs, fully enclosed valves and springs, and a slew of other improvements to help with reliability and overheating. (continued next page)

Page | 26 DEC 2020 | JAN 2021 For the Classic Motorcycle Enthusiast

Resurrecting the Mighty 1936 AJS V4 Submitted by Dave Baker

This new AJS V4 proved competitive, in the 1939 Ulster GP two examples of the V4 led from the start – both would retire but neither failure was a mechanical engine failure (a spark plug and broken suspension). It was during this race that rider Walter Rusk completed the first lap at a record-breaking average speed around the course of 100.03 mph. The first and only win to be enjoyed by the V4 was at the 1946 Chimay in Belgium with rider Jock M West in the saddle. Once forced induction was banned the AJS V4 became obsolete overnight, so the company shifted focus to other models and the V4 was no more – or so the world thought.

DAN SMITH AND THE ALL NEW AJS V4 Vancouver resident Dan Smith is a machinist and a man deeply familiar with British muscle bikes – he owns a Vincent Black Shadow and a Vincent Series B Rapide which he rode all the way down to Tierra del Fuego and north into the Yukon territory. Dan stumbled across an old engine drawing of the V4’s internals and did a little more research, uncovering a series of photographs and history on the famously advanced engine from before the Second World War. Despite the original engine’s reputation for reliability, Dan rolled up his sleeves and set about building an entirely new AJS V4 from scratch. The project took him years and resulted in an engine with bespoke cast, machined, and fabricated parts throughout including stag- geringly complex items like crankshafts, crankcases, and heads. The complete story of the build process is a fascinating read, it was documented in great detail by the team at Canadian Biker Magazine. Now complete and fully run-in, the Dan Smith AJS V4 is being offered for sale. Dave Baker. E

DEC 2020 | JAN 2021 Page | 27 Sprocket SOUTHERN MIDWEEK RIDE REPORT 1st DECEMBER 2020

Subtitle: FIRST CLUB RIDE SINCE LOCKDOWN

fter what seemed like years of Melbourne lockdown we finally were allowed to ride again as a club, albeit with some restrictions still. The weather was mild, although we were all aware that the forecast was for rain and wind later on. But when is a Aforecast right? We met at 8.30am at the BP Officer carpark and it was great to see sixteen members and fifteen bikes and a lot of familiar faces, which most of us had not seen since about March! There were lots of elbow bumps, and just possibly a few clandestine handshakes, although there is no evidence recorded of handshakes, as we “re-met” friends. To avoid crowding into cafes self-catering was required along with sensible distancing. After Mike Walker welcomed and briefed us, we started up ready to head off, with Tom and Deborah as tail end Charlie on the easy-to-spot Canam F3. Sadly, for Rob Mullins, smoke started pouring from his headlight assembly when he switched on and a wiring short forced him to miss the ride. So unfair! The delayed ride then set off. We headed off east on the freeway then enjoyed some rural riding through Nar Nar Goon, Garfield, Longwarry and Bulin Bulin using the Old Sale Road. It was wonderful to be back on country roads of this quality again. While eyes need to be kept on the road some of us did notice Winnie the Pooh, and then a magnificent white elephant high in the gum trees beside the road, (the elephant was 1/10 scale, and was stuffed and only a threat to concentration.) It was even good to be smelling those country smells again: At least one dead carcass, cut grass, cow dung and diesel fumes. By 10.45am we were in Willow Grove and pulled into the Blue Rock Lake for morning tea. Conditions were great for riding, being mild, dry and not much wind. There was a school group at the lake playing games and having stand up paddle-board lessons, as well as kayaking. All a pleasant backdrop to our morning tea, which we had in the large hexagonal shelter.

(SMWR Report 01/12/20 - continued next page)

Page | 28 DEC 2020 | JAN 2021 For the Classic Motorcycle Enthusiast

(SMWR Report 01/12/20 - continued next page)

DEC 2020 | JAN 2021 Page | 29 Sprocket

SMWR REPORT - 01/12/20 (CONTINUED) The previous six months were discussed in some detail: I learnt that David and Mez had got married! Congratulations to them both. I learnt that Graham had a heart attack three week ago, and was here today back enjoying a ride. Congrats to Graham. Back on the bikes after morning tea we were off through Fumina and Noojee, on the Yarra Junction/Noojee road which provided great wind- ing bends at moderate speed. Because of the rain on its way we were heading to Yarra Junction for lunch instead of the originally planned Badger Creek. This was a wise decision from Mike because as we approached Yarra Junction, via Poweltown and Gladysdale, the wind and the rain started. Riding conditions remained quite good although leaves were falling on us like late Autumn. This did little the alter the exhilaration of such a great motorcycle route. By the time we reached Yarra Junction we were in steady but not heavy rain, and while some purchased food/coffees we gathered in the specta- tor area at the footy oval. Over lunch some of us put waterproof trou- sers on over our already damp trousers, which is a wonderful feeling! Of course, by the time we headed off for home the rain had completely stopped, but the waterproofs ensured that we stayed damp for the journey home. Nice. My home back to home distance was 246km, so after topping up at the BP in Officer at the start, I required no more fuel. I presume this was true for most of us.

(SMWR Report 01/12/20 - continued next page)

Page | 30 DEC 2020 | JAN 2021 For the Classic Motorcycle Enthusiast

SMWR REPORT - 01/12/20 (CONTINUED) It was a great ride Mike, and great way to restart the club riding. Brian Boulton.

SMWR Participants List 01/12/20: Rider Bike Year Mike Walker BMW GS1200 2005 (Leader) Janet Walker HondaVTR250 2004 Colin Sullivan BMW R1200R 2009 Graham Boulter BMWR1200GS 2011 Robert Mullins BMW R75/5 1972 Tom Thursfield Canam F3 2018 (TEC) Deborah Lunney Ditto (TEC Assistant) Peter Mathews BMW R90S 1975 Ian Snadden BMW R1100GS 1995 Peter Hansen Triumph Street Twin 2017 Brian Boulton Kawasaki ZRX 1200S 2002 Reg Hammond Triumph Bonnie 2 2013 John Best BMW R80 1986 David & Mez Mc Lennan Triumph Thruxton 2016 Paul Woods Yamaha XV1000 1981

DEC 2020 | JAN 2021 Page | 31 Sprocket

(continued next page)

Page | 32 DEC 2020 | JAN 2021 For the Classic Motorcycle Enthusiast

DEC 2020 | JAN 2021 Page | 33 Sprocket Geelong 1st Sunday Ride Report - 6/12/2020 and a ‘Western District Ramble’

ecidedly unfavourable and gusty weather no doubt resulted in only three hardy riders turning up this Sunday. (David MacInnis who is only just getting back into motorcycling on his new Royal Enfield deserves a special mention in dispatches)! DHowever we enjoyed a fairly pleasant shorter ride through Freshwater Creek, Grassdale and Gray’s Road followed by a short stretch of gravel down Flaxbournes Road, to wake everyone up, to end up in Anglesea for coffee. (We once again passed the Anglesea Transfer Station tip, but no bikes were left there). Of more interest, although not an official Club run, I thought I would provide a report and some photos of a midweek 4-day 1250 km “ramble” that three of us Classic Club mem- bers plus three guests took through the Western District. This was to celebrate pre-Christ- mas and post Covid and the end of 2020. Hooray! The route was essentially along the Great Ocean Road to Port Campbell where we picked up one rider (Evan on his 1967 Harley) and then on to Koroit ending in Hamilton for night 1. Day 2 from Hamilton through Little Desert, Nhill, Jeparit, Rainbow, Hopetoun ending up at the famed Patchewallock Hotel where the men are thirsty and the girls are tough. A certain amount of refreshment and counselling until late into the night by the publican was required after a hot, hard day’s riding and Bernie’s pillion pas- senger Kate showed great fortitude as well in pay- ing attention. Day 3 was a gentler ride through Sea Lake (where we stopped to look at the vast Lake Hindmarsh salt pan). Followed by Wycheproof for lunch, St Arnaud to refuel and ending in comfort- able accommodation at Avoca Cottages. Last day was home via Beaufort and Skipton where Evan peeled off back to Port Campbell. However – whilst a most enjoyable and trou- ble-free ride in general, nothing goes entirely to plan and it has to be sadly reported that we started with 6 riders and finished with 5:

(continued next page)

Page | 34 DEC 2020 | JAN 2021 For the Classic Motorcycle Enthusiast

Geelong 1st Sunday Ride Report - 6/12/20 and a ‘Western District Ramble’ - continued Day 1 (Tuesday 1st) was horrendously windy (and twisty) with gusts up to 70 km/h and rain squalls at times. Upon refuelling at a tiny place called Nullawarre near Warrnambool and whilst sitting stationery on his bike, poor well known Club member Noel Wills was blown over with the bike ending on top of him. After he impolitely declined to get up, straighten his bike and walk, ambulances were called and temporary storage at the garage for his bike arranged. Cut a long story short – he’s OK, bike and Noel safely home in Geelong and he is now the proud owner of a new Titanium artificial hip (made in China)! All in a week! Ride safe and watch the wind! Think of First Aid quali- fications on longer rides! Stan Rogers.

Riders on the 1st Sunday Geelong Run 6/12/20: Rider Bike Year Stan Rogers BMW R80 RT 1985 (Leader) David MacInnis RE Interceptor 650 2020 Ron Study Moto Guzzi 1000 1982 (T.E.C.)

DEC 2020 | JAN 2021 Page | 35 Sprocket

 ARIEL TWIN WITH A HINT OF PATINA

TRIUMPH T150 ON THE ROAD TO MALDON 

Page | 36 DEC 2020 | JAN 2021 For the Classic Motorcycle Enthusiast

And the Mystery Rider is... MIKE WALKER

MIKE & JANET WALKER WITH THEIR BIKES

DEC 2020 | JAN 2021 Page | 37 Sprocket CLASSIFIEDS ITEMS FOR SALE AND WANTED All vehicles listed for sale must have the registration number or frame and engine number included with ad. Ads will run for TWO ISSUES ONLY unless renewed by deadline of the General Meeting preceding month of publication.

FOR SALE: FOR SALE – Engine Kit for Villiers Autocycle Headlight Glass 3.5"diameter suit Junior Deluxe Engine: Malvern Star or other autocycle – Free Ring Set, Gasket set. Condenser. $100 Contact Kevin Jessup: 9338 3557 Contact Kevin Jessup – Phone: 9338 3557

DOES THIS 1971 BSA LIGHTNING WANTED – Honda CB750/4 Bikes & Parts: Top fork nuts, centre stand, pivot, spring LOOK FAMILIAR? and C bracket. Rear brake lever. Rev counter. Robert Knight has recently bought a bike Speedo. Rear grab rail from NSW. It is a 1971 BSA Lightning, which Also looking for CBX1000, CX500, CX650 lived in Melbourne until about 12 years ago and CB 750 to do up. when it was bought by a bloke in NSW. Paul White: 0419 681 794 Rob would like to know some of the history of the BSA’s past life in Melbourne. WANTED: VIN # KE000596A65L and Motorcycle dealer name badges/plates for Engine # KE000596A65L my collection, as in accompanying photo. Anyone who knows this bike or its owner of Buy or Exchange. 12 years ago, please contact: Grant Barrett – Mobile: 0432 589 018 Robert Knight – Mobile: 0417 032 732 Email: [email protected]

(continued next page)

Page | 38 DEC 2020 | JAN 2021 For the Classic Motorcycle Enthusiast CLASSIFIEDS ITEMS FOR SALE AND WANTED

FOR SALE – BMW 2004 F650 CS (Scarver): Single twin spark Rotax motor, 51,000km, ABS, heated grips, centre & side stands, Stain tune silencer and original, high & low screens, crash bars, new battery, recent new drive belt and Michelin Pilot 4 tyres, BMW top box, tank bag, original hand books and toolkit, workshop manual, host of consuma- bles. In top condition. RWC supplied. $3950. (Owner seeking new back, hip and knees) Ray Isles – Mobile: 0407 301 238

Club Regalia and Clothing for Sale All items displayed and sold at every meeting Plus orders taken anytime by contacting Reg on: (03) 9435 7542 Caps (grey/black trim, white logo) ...... $15 Beanie (black, gold logo) ...... $10 Floppy Hat (black, wide brim, gold logo) ...... $15 Polo Shirts (grey, white logo above top pocket) ...... $28 Jumper (black, gold logo) ...... $70 Jacket (black, gold logo, polar fleece with sleeves) ...... $42 Vest (black, gold logo, polo fleece, sleeveless) ...... $32 Cast Logo aluminium (for painting, mount on bike) ...... $30 Hard Cover Note Books with Pen ...... $10 Label Holder (clear, extra strong, made for bikes) ...... $8 Cloth Club Patch (blue/gold, sew on type) ...... $4 Club Sticker (blue/gold, sticky back) ...... $2 Pens with Club Logo (blue/gold, push top) ...... $3 Name Badge (includes club logo) ...... $12.50 Note Books ...... $10

DEC 2020 | JAN 2021 Page | 39

Quality Motorcycle Travel Gear

“NO ONE KNOWS YOUR (03) 9786 3445 PASSION LIKE SHANNONS.” Universal t designs 1/95 Brunel Road, Seaford, Victoria, 3198 | [email protected] facebook.com/andy.strapz

AUTOMOTIVE MACHINING BY PTY HEADWORKS LTD

Shannons insurance is for motoring enthusiasts just like you, with features like: n Choice of repairer n Agreed value n Multi-Vehicle & Multi-Policy discounts n Special low usage rates n Riding gear cover n Cover for modifications n Flexible coverage for bikes that are laid up, being restored, or at club events n Home Contents Insurance including $10,000 enthusiast cover for your collectables & tools n Pay by the month premiums at no extra cost Call Shannons on 13 46 46 for a quote on your special bike, special car, daily Leigh (Basil) Keir drive, or your home, and speak with a genuine enthusiast. 408 Neerim Road Phone: (03) 9568 5226 Carnegie VIC 3163 Mobile: 0410 514 356 INSURANCE FOR MOTORING ENTHUSIASTS | CALL 13 46 46 FOR A QUOTE | SHANNONS.COM.AU Shannons Pty Limited ABN 91 099 692 636 is an authorised representative of AAI Limited ABN 48 005 297 807, the product issuer. Some benefits only apply to comprehensive vehicle cover. Shannons has not [email protected] www.headworksptyltd taken account of your objectives, financial situation or needs. Read the Product Disclosure Statement before buying this insurance. Contact us for a copy. RICHARD'SRICHARD'S Automotive Trimming .COM.AU Automotive Trimming All Automotive Upholstery Repairs including: Motorcycle Chassis and Motorcycle Seats and Side Car Tonneau Covers, Suspension Specialists Canvas Canopies, Tonneau Covers (Ute), Vintage Restoration and Marine Trimming. 15 Clunies Ross Crescent, Mulgrave VIC 3170 T: (03) 9560 2770 E: [email protected] Contact Richard on: 0413 029 482 www.promecha.com.au [email protected] j 1/3 Latham Road j 1/2055 Frankston-Flinders Road Carrum Downs VIC 3201 Hastings VIC 3915 ¢ (03) 9775 1299 ¢ (03) 5979 7687 l [email protected] l [email protected] R mk1motorcycles.com.au R k1motorcycles.com.au Service - Repairs - Parts - RWC - Dirt - Road - Cruiser - Harley

YOUR AD HERE

CONTACT: Rob Mullins (Club Treasurer) for all display advertising Enquiries on: 0418 366 580 Email: [email protected] focus print group • Books • Stationary • Magazines • Commercial • Journals printing 14 Lightfoot Street, Mont Albert [email protected] Melbourne Victoria 3127 25 Arctic Crt, Keysborough P: (03) 9898 3677 E: [email protected] (03) 8831 2000 www.lightfootwheels.com

RVEX DAVID PASCOE Powder Coating Works Supervisor Pt y. Ltd. A P: (03) 9543 1973 Motorcycle & Auto F: (03) 9543 1924 Parts Specialists

14 Fulton Street, Oakleigh South, Victoria 3167