A semi-popular export, the BSA A50 Royal Star was an evolution of the A50 Star, which was an example of BSA’s transition to full unit construction engines. The Royal Star had a 498cc twin that pushed 33 horsepower through a 4-speed transmission. For more on the Royal Star, check out this article from Motorcycle Classics.
Video Intermission – Target Fixation
Another instant classic from RNickeyMouse, this video shows what happens when: 1.) Someone parks a car where bikes have been known to go wide in the past. 2.) A rider exhibits a pretty incredible case of target fixation. I feel bad for both parties but it’s pretty humorous to see the guy have his car hit just seconds after parking …
1977 Moto Guzzi 850 LeMans
Post-Sale Update: After 40 bids on eBay, this Moto Guzzi 850 LeMans sold for $16,099. Arguably the successor to the V7 Sport, the Moto Guzzi 850 LeMans was named after the famous race in France. Guzzi took a modified version of the 850T engine and wrapped it in interesting styling that has led to it becoming a cult classic.
Replica of a Replica – 1974 John Player Norton Commando
The most collectible of the Commandos (in my humble opinion) was the John Player, a distinctive endurance-inspired Norton with unique bodywork surrounding a completely stock Mark 2A Commando. I’ve never cared for the dual headlights , but they caught they eyes of many fans who were obsessed with the hottest motorcycle racing competitions of the time – endurance races.
Macco Motors Spitfire 09 – 2002 Honda Nighthawk 750
Built by Macco Motors, this custom Honda Nighthawk 750 was turned into “Spitfire 09”.
New Year’s Eve in La Paz, Mexico – Day 3
Welcome back for Day 3 of my trip to La Paz – just be warned that there’s no riding today.
Video Intermission – Beyond Siberia Trailer
This is a special Video Intermission because it features a Bike-urious reader!
1989 Honda GB500
Vintage looks without the hassle of owning a vintage bike. That’s the promise of bikes like the Honda GB500, and that’s why they’ve become a cult classic. Here’s an excellent example with flaws limited to a split in the left fork gaiter, a minor scratch on the underside of the muffler, and aftermarket rear turn signals, one of which is …
1974 Columbia MTD Mud Bug
A quirky, rare 3 wheeler, the “Mud Bug” was made by MTD, a company known more for producing lawn mowers. Powered by Briggs & Stratton motors varying between 5-8 horsepower, they were designed to be fun toys that could be transported in a station wagon, back when people actually bought station wagons.
1989 Kawasaki ZXR400
Never officially imported to the US, the Kawasaki ZXR400 was one of the more popular 400cc sport bikes that Japan and Europe got to enjoy. Here’s one that’s made it across the ocean as the seller brought it with him from Japan.
9 Miles – 2002 Suzuki GSX-R600M Telefonica Movistar
4-8-15 Update: Reader George G let me know that this GSX-R is back up for sale with 1 additional mile, much better pictures, and bidding up to $3,550 in Glendale, California here on eBay. Post-Sale Update: After a hefty 48 bids on eBay, this GSX-R600M sold for $3,600 on eBay. A limited edition released in 2002, the GSX-R600M was a …
2015 Ride for Kids
This month’s charity-focused post is on the upcoming national series of motorcycle rides that support the Pediatric Brain Tumor Foundation – Ride for Kids.
In New Zealand – 1994 Bimota DB2J Junior
A baby brother to the DB2 (of which just 408 units were built), the Bimota DB2 Junior was nearly identical except for three major changes: a single front disc (dual discs were optional), a narrower rear wheel, and…a 400cc, 49 horsepower engine. The Junior was built solely for the Japanese market because that company had tax regulations that greatly favored …
1995 Moto Guzzi Sport 1100
Producer of big bikes with lovely, torquey V-Twin engines, Guzzi is best known for cruisers and standard bikes. But the Moto Guzzi Sport 1100 was a beautiful deviation from the norm.
Clean First Year – 1986 Suzuki GSX-R 1100
Here’s a first-year example of the venerable Suzuki GSX-R 1100 that’s being offered by the second owner. It’s claimed to be an un-restored original in excellent condition that doesn’t need anything. The second owner acquired it 5 years ago after it spent some time in storage – it’s unclear how often the bike has been exercised since but he thoughtfully …