Vintage Japanese Motorcycle Club - Australia
+ News Events Classifieds Ride Reports and More Quarterly Club Mag www.vjmc.org.au
Issue 129
V J M C I N C A u st r alia
VJMC Inc Australia The Australian branch of the VJMC is a registered association incorporated in the state of New South Wales. Objectives of the VJMC: To foster the preservation, restoration, riding and enjoyment of older Japanese motorcycles.
Club Postal Address PO Box 254 Modbury North SA 5092 Membership Applications and Renewals: VJMC Inc, PO Box 254 Modbury North SA 5092 Website: www.vjmc.org.au VJMC Australia Committee President John McNair | (07) 3133 0191 | president@vjmc.org.au Secretary Heather Garth | 0416 358 882 | secretary@vjmc.org.au Treasurer Greg Watson | 0417 608 360 | vjmctreasurer@gmail.com Vice President/Public Officer David Bernardi | 0431 661 769 | mrdbernardi@gmail.com Area Rep Coordinator Peter Hunt | 0418 214 754 | phunty@bigpond.net.au Committee Member Graeme Knight | 0411 034 938 | glknight22@hotmail.com Committee Member Steve Phelps | (02) 9456 2851 | steve.phelps@bigpond.com Membership Secretary Mick Godfrey | 0401 196 922 | vjmcmembership@gmail.com Merchandise Officer Peter Donnellan | 0408 839 805 | merchandise@vjmc.org.au (for orders) peted@internode.on.net (for merchandise enquiries) Librarian Lyndon Adams | (02) 4945 1780 | lyndarra@gmail.com Web Manager webmanager@vjmc.org.au quarterly VJMC Magazine This is a forum for members in which they may advertise bikes and/or parts for sale or wanted, exchange ideas and restoration tips, seek advice, share opinions and experiences, or anything else relating to the club’s objectives. Contributions are very welcome. Editor Tom Calderwood | tom@pepperpublishing.com.au
2
Vintage Japanese Motorcycle Club
www.vjmc.org.au
129 C ontents
President’s Report |4| News |6| Lower Hunter |8| South East Qld News | 10 | Tamworth | 12 | Melbourne Metro | 14-18 | North East Victoria | 19 | Western Vic Wanderings | 20 | South Australia Report | 22| National Rally | 24-35 | Festivus Miracle | 36-39 | VJMC Club Info | 40-41 | Membership Renewal | 42 |
www.vjmc.org.au
Vintage Japanese Motorcycle Club
3
PREz REPORT
There’s a saying that goes ‘Don’t put off until tomorrow what you can do today” and with some of the things that have happened of late I think there is merit in that saying.
I
n August last year I lost a friend who had just retired at 59 and went in to have routine knee surgery before taking a long bike ride in the new year. All went well up until they got him up to walk when a blood clot went to his heart and he died. In March this year the Brisbane group lost one of its valued members also in his 50’s to cancer. Gary was a keen member of the Brisbane group and always ready to step in and help out whether it be on club activities or to help another member fix a problem with his bike. When diagnosed they gave him three months however he made five months and was still working on his bikes almost to the end. One of nature’s gentlemen he will be sadly missed by his family and many friends. Also in the last few months we lost another keen member this time in Sydney with the passing of Steve Thompson. Steve was a keen Suzuki 750 Water-cooled fan with many of these machines in his shed. Many a club member has received help or advice from Steve over the years. Like Gary he will be missed by all. I would like to extend my condolences to their families and my thoughts are with you. With the 2013 National Rally over for this year I have to say congratulations the South Australian members for putting together a great rally in beautiful Victor Harbor. The weatherman wasn’t kind to us with a nasty storm coming up just when the display was on which tested the strength of the
4
Vintage Japanese Motorcycle Club
marquee’s and those hanging on to them. The days before and after were excellent weather. Not to worry though it was still a great event and the area around Victor Harbor is just beautiful with some great riding roads with magnificent views over the town and Encounter Bay. With over 200 entries and 184 at the Presentation Dinner the rally was a huge success. Many of those there have rebooked their accommodation for next year. Have just been down to the 2013 Inverell Classic Restorers Rally. As per usual it was a great weekend with over 150 machines attending. Inverell is a beautiful town on the western slopes of the New England area of New South Wales with good accommodation, a top Transport Museum and great roads. A full report will be in the next mag however I would like to say a big congratulation to all the VJMC members who attended with over 20 of us attending. The only bigger club attendance was the host club. I am sure all who were there had a great time so we might even do better next year. Despite the weather we have had some great events already this year and I look forward to many more. Don’t forget folks, your area reps put a lot of their time into organizing the local events so get behind them and give them your support. It’s all voluntary work that our area rep’s and committee do. Ride Safe John McNair
www.vjmc.org.au
PREz REPORT
www.vjmc.org.au
Vintage Japanese Motorcycle Club
5
News
Area rep coordinator: Peter Hunt Just a short note to let you know that I have taken up the role of Area Rep Coordinator following the “retirement” of Jeff Eeles – many thanks to Jeff for his work and I am very aware that he leaves big shoes to fill.
I
will endeavour to keep in contact with all the Area Reps around the country, and help anybody who wants to start a group in a new area. As members of a national club we are spread far and wide, and should all be aware of who our Area Rep is – that person is your link to the National Committee, and if you have any questions, ideas or suggestions then please consider putting them forward through your Rep. Your Rep will help organise rides and events and set up a calendar for your region – but don’t leave it ALL up to him/her – if you have ideas, initiate them and add to the activities in your
region – the more the merrier. The Rep can also receive your magazine articles and photos, and then forward them on to the editor – so don’t be shy in putting together articles and photos of rides, resto projects, blasts from the past etc. and help fill the magazine and keep the spirit of the club alive – the magazine is the most important and all-encompassing form of communication we have, so be a part of it and share your stories with us all. I look forward to working with all the Area Reps and hopefully establishing some new areas around the country – we now have one in WA too, thanks to Norm Larkin!
ACT rep report
which was well attended. We talked about all sorts of things, including the rally in South Aust which was, without a doubt, a fantastic weekend and, well done to all involved. We also discussed the VJMC rally which will be held in the ACT in 2015 (boy there’s a lot to do!) As yet there’s no rides /shed days sorted out but that will change by next month, so stay tuned.
Words Ian Stevens
Well guys as the new rep for the ACT and I might add, new to this sort of thing, you will have bear with me on this for a while. I recently took the plunge and emailed / phoned the local members on my list and organised a meeting at the Canberra Club
Imax display
6
Vintage Japanese Motorcycle Club
The Imax Theatre in Melbourne had club member Dave Lindgren’s Kawasaki GPZ900R on display recently as part of a promo to highlight the 3D rerelease of TOP GUN at the IMAX theatre. Imax Melbourne Museum General Manager Richard Morrison is a VJMC member himself and thought having the iconic GPZ - as ridden by Tom Cruise in Top Gun - would make a cool display. “We had Dave’s beautiful black GPZ900R in place in time for the opening session. The bike generated a lot of interest and attention with lots of photos taken,” Richard said.
www.vjmc.org.au
News
Classifieds Wanted
For sale
Complete Kawasaki 250cc A1 engine with electrics and carburetors. Twin cylinder 1967 model. Also points and electrics if possible and turns over. Also air cleaner and exhaust system.
Brake shoes, Suzuki Titan, brand new, still in wrapping, one set. $60.
Complete set of pistons for GL1100 Gold Wing standard size. Complete set of pistons for CX650 Honda 0.50mm oversize if possible. Also right hand carburetor. Call Greg Patmore on 03 6266 4007 (Tas)
wa branch My name is Norm Larkin and I’d like to introduce myself as the new WA area Representative. After a very enjoyable weekend over in Victor Harbor and talking to a few people I have decided to see what we can do to get the VJMC scene more active in WA. I am originally from Albury where I was fortunate enough to had been employed by Stan Steen (Honda) and Roy Whitehouse (Whitehouse Motorcycles) This was back in the mid seventies early eighties. The time I spent working with Roy was probably the best years I can remember in the industry. And I am proud to be able call Roy and Kay close family friends. Here I am almost 30 years later still heavily involved in the running of the largest motorcycle dealerships in WA. Millway Corporation here in Perth are agents for Kawasaki, Yamaha, Ducati, KTM, Victory, Moto Guzzi, Aprilia and Kymco. This is enough to keep me busy. But in my spare time? My passion is still early Japanese motorcycles around the 1970-80 period. I would like to hear from anyone in WA that
www.vjmc.org.au
Front drum brake, polished, perfect for restorer as all work complete. $250. Pair of forks, Suzuki Titan, look brand new – black, new seals, freshly oiled, ready to fit. $300. Call Greg 0407 212 038
would like to get in touch with me so that we can arrange to get some activities arranged. Any ideas will be more than welcomed. I will endeavour to get in contact with the WA members in the near future. You can contact me on 0412 684 097 or email me at bikesales@causewaykawasaki.com.au
Vintage Japanese Motorcycle Club
7
Club News
The Vince Report from Lower Hunter Before I get onto the rides, I would like to inform members of the sad passing of Steve Thompson. I saw Steve quite often, and he was one of God’s gentlemen; and I would like to extend our condolences to his wife and family. Yvonne and I made it down to the club rally at Victor Harbor SA, we only took two of the Kawasaki triples behind our Ford car in our trailer. We stayed in a house along with Ian and Cathy Smith and Phil and Pam Dawes and really enjoyed the event. Phil took two little Honda’s, but was in considerable discomfort after coming off his Honda in Tasmania a week before and badly burning the inside of his foot, resulting in things at the rally not going quite to plan. I had put a lot of work and time into my 1974 H1E and put it out there to be judged only to find out four days later that I wasn’t in the judging owing to the fact that it should have had two stickers on it not just the one. It’s my own fault as I didn’t read the instructions regarding the concours. I am going to the 2014 rally and will make sure that I have the two stickers on them. I received a phone call from Lyndon Adams a couple of days before our March 29th ride to Karuah and he suggested that we make it a sausage sizzle due to an earlier planned one at Fingal Bay being washed out, so we did. We met at Speers Point park for the first time. The new cafe there is operated by the Salvos and there were no complaints about the coffee. We had seven bikes and two pillions turn up. Jeff Lockhart on his Katana, Phil Kendrigan on his newly purchased Honda CBX750, Daryl Turner on the XL500 Honda, Lyndon and Darra Adams on their FJ1200 Yamaha, Karl and Cathy Rosenberg on a Triumph Sprint, Paul Nichols on the mean
8
Vintage Japanese Motorcycle Club
looking Kawasaki and myself on the Kawasaki triple. We headed up to Raymond Terrace Macca’s where we met up with Steve Watt on a Yamaha and Dave Garriety on his Z9 Kawasaki. It was then off to Karuah New Line road to Limeburner’s Creek on Bucketts Way, then joined the Pacific Highway for a short run up to Karuah. It was a good ride except for one thing, the rough roads dislodged the tops of two jars of coffee I had in the billy in my Gearsack. The lid then came off the billy as well and coffee dusted just about everything I had in the bag, other food stuff and my wet weather gear, but I guess things happen some times. The park at Karuah had electric BBQs under shelter and picturesque views across the river. I think all that attended enjoyed the day out. It would be nice to have more members attending both the meetings at Club Macquarie and the monthly events, hope to see you there. I would also like to thank Peter Hunt and band of helpers for a great rally. See you all next year. Until next time stay safe. Vince Foreman
www.vjmc.org.au
Club News
www.vjmc.org.au
Vintage Japanese Motorcycle Club
9
Club News
South-east Queensland: Ride Calendar May 2013; Sunday 12th
Day ride to the Pitstop Café at Ocean View near Mount Mee via Wamuran and Campbells Pocket Rd. It’s Mothers Day so bring your Mum and shout her lunch and a milk shake. Leave the Caltex Garage Gympie Road Castledine at 9am.
Tuesday 14th
Club meeting at the Belmont Tavern corner of Burstal Ave and Belmont Road Belmont. Dinner at 7pm and meeting at 8pm.
Friday 24th
Social Night at Harry’s Diner 104 Newmarket Rd Windsor. Meet there at 6.30 to 7pm. Great burgers, old cars etc.
Sunday 26th
Ray Owen Motorcycle Show (formerly the Ray Owen Concourse) at the Tamborine Mtn Convention Centre Beacon Rd Mt Tamborine. Leave BP garage opposite the wineglass water tower Mt Lindesay Hwy Browns Plains at 7.30am.
June 2013; Friday 7th
Social Night at Harry’s Diner 104 Newmarket Rd Windsor. Meet there at 6.30 to 7pm. Great burgers, old cars etc.
Tuesday 11th
Club meeting at the Belmont Tavern corner of Burstal Ave and Belmont Road Belmont. Dinner at 7pm and meeting at 8pm.
Sunday 16th
Day ride to Mt French Lookout near Boonah then to the Royal Hotel in Roadvale for lunch. Meet at the Woolworths Garage next to Macca’s Warwick Rd Yamanto at 8.30am.
Friday 21st
Social night at Gold Coast Enthusiast’s Motorcycle Club, the Historical Village Mudgereeba. Leave BP Garage Exit 38 of the M1 at Yatala at 6pm. Need numbers by Wed 19th for catering. $10.00 for hot meal inc sweets and tea/coffee.
July 2013; Sunday 7th
Day ride to Mulgowie Hotel south of Laidley for lunch. Leave from the Caltex Garage Warrego Hwy Blacksoil at 8.30am.
Tuesday 9th
Club meeting at the Belmont Tavern corner of Burstal Ave and Belmont Road Belmont. Dinner at 7pm and meeting at 8pm.
Sunday 21st
2013 Laverda Concourse at Cleveland Showgrounds.
Saturday 27th
CB Honda 750/4 Club’s “Living In The 70’s motorcycle show” at Pro Honda premises Ipswich Rd Rocklea 8am.
Extra Outings
10
Saturday morning gatherings are held at Tony’s Café at Springwood Suzuki Beenliegh-Kingston Rd Underwood from 9am
Vintage Japanese Motorcycle Club
www.vjmc.org.au
Club News
Lyons Road Ride Report Words Tom McGrath
The day started out well, bucketing down in Cleveland at 5:00am so went back to bed, still raining at 6:00 - looks like no ride today. Then at 7:00 got up thinking of heading to work, seeing the rally and a 2 week break is imminent.
I
walked outside and low and behold, there was a watery sun and no rain ... I needed no further convincing it was on with the boots and jacket, no need for wet gear, it was all good now. I hit the meet point - BP servo Browns Plains at 07:50 and there was a huge gathering – myself and Ross on his DR650. I contemplated bailing, but Ross said he was looking forward to this trip, and had not been on the Lyons Rd before, so we waited till 08:10, just to be sure there were no stragglers, and then, with full tanks, took off. The day was really quite nice, mild temperature, no rain, heavy patchy cloud and the occasional ray of sun. We hit Beaudesert and topped off the DR tank, as we were not sure of the range and headed on to Lyons Rd, everything was bright green after the rains, the road was dry, but some bugger must have left all the gates open and at every cattle grate crossing there were cows playing chicken ... the cows won. Just over the border, it was evident that the storm had gone straight through there on Friday afternoon, the road had lots of leaf litter, small branches and mud washouts, the river crossings were all above water, but covered in mud and sand, nothing too big, just kept us on our toes. All the while, I could see rain on distant peaks.
Summerland Way at 09:45. Food, coffee and outlook was great – not too expensive at $7 for a great toasted Sandwich, $15 for Bacon and Eggs and $4.50 for Mug of coffee – I could not see cake, but had Chris been there we would have sniffed it out for sure. The owner was there and said that there is a dirt road, near the café, over the range to Murwillumbah 60km away – maybe something to try on a future ride during summer? We decided to head for home because of pending afternoon storms and left at 10:45 turning right onto Summerland Way, and heading onto Mt Lindsay Hwy at Woodenbong, a great ride on a dry twisty road back to Beaudesert, where we stopped to top off the DR again as the circuit was 185km. Here we said “see you next time” and headed for home, I got just one short downpour on the Logan Motorway, it started as a shower, no problem here, the CBX fairing kept me nice and dry, that is until it became a tropical downpour that had water coming from everywhere. The old yellow Hyundai I passed earlier passed me smiling thru the windows, they were all warm and dry, no doubt, listening to their Chris De Burg tape … Arrived home at 13:30, a good day out, and 380km round trip, the CBX went well and will do the Adelaide trip nicely.
The stop was at Ripples, a Café on the left side of Lyons/Grady’s Creek Rd., about 6 km before
www.vjmc.org.au
Vintage Japanese Motorcycle Club
11
Club News
Tamworth area report Words Motopaulie
Greetings from the NorthWest. We now have a total of 42 members here in Tamworth, although with a recent transfer and a couple of new sign ups our total is more like forty-five or so.
T
his number represents approximately five per cent of the national VJMC active membership, which is not too dusty considering we have only just begun our fourth year of existence. However it doesn’t end there, in our region we also have new members in Narrabri, Glen Innes and Armidale, and with the four or so that Graeme Tonkin has up at Inverell we may have the beginnings of a “North West Congress”. We’ll be looking to get together a few times during the rest of the year. At our first meeting for the year back in February we had 22 members turn up (with three apologies). On our first ride day of the season in March we had 17 bikes turn up at the meeting point, 16 bikes ride out from Tamworth to Manilla via Keep-it Dam and then two join us from Narrabri for lunch. Not a bad effort. On our calendar we have one official social/business meeting and then one official ride each month. Our Historic Vehicle register is growing all the time, we now have well over thirty bikes on conditional plates and there are at least another half a dozen nearing registration condition. We have two exhibition events planned this year, the first will be our participation in the local Shannon’s sponsored motor show on the
12
Vintage Japanese Motorcycle Club
weekend of April 27-28th and of course our Blue Ribbon Prostate Cancer Charity Display Day on Sunday November 17th. Over the past three years we have collected $2700 for the Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia, and had a bit of fun in the process. We envisage that this event will grow in the not too distant future and plans for a ride on the Saturday are well in hand. With over six months’ notice you might consider coming along and enjoying some northern hospitality. And no it’s not a Rally, nor is it in competition with any Rally; it is however a charity display event with trophies for various classes based on age and presentation of machine. If you have seen the reports of our show events in the newsletter you will know we have quite a collection of very tidy machines. Awards are based on people’s choice rather than having the correct widget, washer or block pattern front tyre, so no clip boards, just the power of the ballot box. Why don’t you give attending some thought, we’ll keep you informed with notices on the web site. We also have involvement in Historic racing,
www.vjmc.org.au
Club News
mostly as spectators but we do have one active participant (go Dobbo!!) running a Z1R in Period Five, but you never know there may be a few more in the future competing in other classes. We make regular trips to Phillip Island for the Classics in January and the Barry Sheene Festival of Speed and other events as able. At the BSFoS this year Dobbo was conscripted into the Australian Team, to help stem the Kiwi onslaught, in the Trans-Tasman Challenge. Sadly for us the Kiwi’s were successful in round one but Dobbo and the boys are determined to reverse the situation at Hampton Downs in October. Dobbo has already booked his passage for the decider.
the “Best Single” trophy with his 1974 Honda SL175. Well done Steve Murden! We should have a few more make the long trek over to South Oz next year, time will tell. That’ll do for now I reckon, but in closing I would like to thank Jeff Eeles for his patience and all the assistance he has given me over the past three years to get this group off the ground. I now look forward to working with the new Area Rep Co-ordinator.
From what I’ve seen the National Rally looked like it was a roaring success and Peter and his team deserve congratulations. We were not able to send the usual contingent from Tamworth this year but our sole entrant did himself proud by bring home
www.vjmc.org.au
Vintage Japanese Motorcycle Club
13
Club News
Melbourne metro report Here are some details of the rides and events attended so far this year: Riding Tips & Tactics Day 20th January. Melbourne club member and former Stay Upright instructor Michael Samootin volunteered his day to impart some of his vast riding knowledge and experience to the 16 other members who attended. The morning ‘classroom’ session was hosted at Melbourne club member Mark Bartlett’s SafetyQuip shop in Nunawading, with practical riding exercises conducted in an off street car park area next door. The afternoon ‘on road’ session included a ride through the Black Spur to Buxton and Yea. We also experienced a real life incident at the start of the Black Spur when a (non-VJMC) rider coming the other way crashed his bike while trying to avoid a stopped car, with the rider hitting the car and his bike skating onto to wrong side of the road and run over by one of our members Rob. Fortunately there were no serious injuries, however it was a good lesson for all on what can happen on the road. Fellow Melbourne Metro Rep Tom Savage arranged and co-ordinated this event, including catering for lunch. Thank you to Michael, Mark and Tom for an excellent and informative day. Phillip Island Classic Bike Races 27th January. The 20th annual International Island Classic was held at the famous Phillip Island circuit. About 10 members met at Tooradin in the morning, we then rode down to the track. Several more members made their own way to the track, including Peter Hunt who came across all the way from South Australia. Hundreds of classic road bikes were there to see,
14
Vintage Japanese Motorcycle Club
hear and smell; both being raced on the track and ridden in by spectators. There was great track viewing and free access to the pits, where many famous racing identities were available for a chat. The historic racing bikes were arranged in six periods from early 1920’s to late 1980’s. All types of makes and models were there with vintage Japanese motorcycles well represented.
‘80 Honda CB900f
‘82 suzuki Harris F1
‘84 Kawasaki gpz900r
‘75 Yamaha tz750
www.vjmc.org.au
Club News
Mid Life Cycles Just Bikes Magazine Launch 3rd February. Melbourne member Michael Catchpole invited fellow members to the Just Bikes magazine launch at the Mid Life Cycles shop near Richmond. Members who attended were treated to some classic bikes both at the shop and ridden in by attendees, including a BBQ and coffee. Picnic at Hanging Rock 10th February. The 26th annual Picnic at Hanging Rock was an informal classic car and bike event for vehicles over 25 years old, held at the scenic grounds of Hanging Rock reserve and racecourse. A few members attended and we spent the day viewing the huge display of over 2,000 classic cars and various bikes, including several vintage Japanese motorcycles.
Toolshed bar carpark
suzuki gs850g A few of the VJM’s
Cremorne Street
www.vjmc.org.au
Emerald – Noojee – Mount Baw Baw Ride 17th February. A good turn out with 20 members meeting at Emerald. 17 then rode the scenic winding roads through the hills to Noojee where we met three more there for lunch at the Toolshed Bar. Five then rode the optional ride extension up to Mount Baw Baw with even more tight corners and some challenging pot holes thrown in for additional excitement.
Vintage Japanese Motorcycle Club
15
Club News
Ballan Vintage Swap Meet 2nd March. Three members met at Calder then rode to Ballan via the back roads. We then visited the swap meet to look at the items for sale and some classic vehicles on display. It really is quite amazing the various types of ‘treasure’ (or junk?!) people try to sell. Following lunch at the Greendale Pub, we then took a scenic ride back detouring via Blackwood, Trentham and Woodend.
Old car parts for sale
Phillip Island Classic Car Races 10th March. This annual event is similar to the classic bike races except with classic cars. Two members met at Tooradin in the morning then rode to the track. There we saw all types of classic cars, especially memorable was the ear splitting engine noise of the un-muffled racing cars going flat out down the main straight.
Briagolong hotel
Harold Parsons Memorial Ride Maffra 23rd March. The 31st annual Harold Parsons Memorial Ride was run by the Maffra-Sale motorcycle club to commemorate the world famous talented local rider who raced and set multiple world speed and distance records between 1914 and 1921, mostly on Indian motorcycles. Most attendees were from the local area with over 100 classic bikes of many different ages and types there, including about 17 vintage Japanese motorcycles. Riders met at the club rooms in Maffra. Upon a friendly check in, we were also greeted with free tea, coffee, homemade sandwiches and cakes. Riders then took off from Maffra at allocated one minute intervals and at their own pace rode the ‘mystery’ route that was well marked out by red arrows. The 180 km route went through many quiet back roads in scenic country with lots of corners, stopping at Briagolong Hotel for lunch, then returning to Maffra. An excellent event and well worth the ride.
‘66 World gp championship winning brabham bt19
16
Vintage Japanese Motorcycle Club
www.vjmc.org.au
Club News
Honda Broadford Bike Bonanza 31st March. The annual Honda Broadford Bike Bonanza caters for pre 1985 classic road, motor cross, trials, enduro and speedway motorcycles. The theme is ‘no racing – just fun’, however there was plenty of speed on display. 12 members met at Eltham for a nice scenic wet
yamaha yds3
honda rsc1000
Charlies Arthurs Seat Auto Museum 14th April. There was an excellent turnout for this ride with 45 bikes in total, including four pillions and 39 vintage Japanese motorcycles. Most met at Rowville for the ride down the scenic Mornington Peninsular on the eastern side to Flinders, then back up the middle to the museum. Several more met the group on the way and some more met at the museum. Charlie’s Auto Museum is full of some interesting and unusual cars, micro-cars, motorcycles and various automotive memorabilia. There is also a BBQ area where we had a nice lunch and chat before making our own ways home.
www.vjmc.org.au
& dry ride through the hills to Broadford. Several more members made their own way there. We mostly stayed around the road race circuit area and viewed the hundreds of various classic racing and road bikes on track, in the pits and in the parking and camping areas. There were also motor cross, trials, enduro and speedway tracks for those who like classic dirt bikes.
mal campbell - suzuki rg500
ginger molloy - Kawasaki h1r
BBQ at Charlie’s arthurs seat auto museum
Vintage Japanese Motorcycle Club
17
Club News
Melbourne Metro Events Calendar Rides and events planned so far for the rest of this year
May 2013; Tuesday 14th
Mid-week Lunch.
Tuesday 28th
Grandview Hotel Social Night – Fairfield.
June 2013; Tuesday 11th
Mid-week Lunch.
Tuesday 25th
Grandview Hotel Social Night – Fairfield.
Sunday 30th
‘World Famous’ Finger Freezer Ride: Meet 8 am at BP Calder Park outbound, then ride up to Bendigo to visit the VJMC Central Vic Team
July 2013; Tuesday 9th
Mid-week Lunch.
Tuesday 30th
Grandview Hotel Social Night – Fairfield.
August 2013; Tuesday 13th
Mid-week Lunch.
Tuesday 27th
Grandview Hotel Social Night – Fairfield.
18
Vintage Japanese Motorcycle Club
www.vjmc.org.au
Club News
North east victoria Back in January the North East Victorian Branch ran a ride to Nagambie to celebrate our first year as a VJMC branch.
W
ith the help of Jeff Eeles we were able to invite well over 400 Victorian Club members. From the start this was going to be a low key event, with the main objectives being to meet like minded people, make contact with other branch members, put on a good show of old bikes, and take a ride through
the countryside. Well, what a top day it turned out to be, with 85 bikes (59 on club plates) of all breeds and sizes. If there was a prize for best bike on the day, it would have to go to the lady on the Honda Dream 305. At present it looks like we will do it again next year and ask one of the service clubs to put on a BBQ. Again thanks to all of you for showing up and making the day as good as it was. Bob and Jenny Kitchener V.J.M.C. North East Branch
Photos by Lisa Walker (Accelerated Light Photography)
www.vjmc.org.au
Vintage Japanese Motorcycle Club
19
Club News
Western Vic region wanderings Welcome to Western Vic to Morgan Tyrell who has escaped to the country with his family. Morgan is having a crack at restoration of a Honda 50 which along with his Goldwing and Yamaha makes for an eclectic mix.
March Ride in April A beautiful morning weather wise and the Ballarat locals met at Ferguson Plarre for coffee (with cake generously provided by host and member Michael Brooks). Replete with this fine fare we headed off to meet up with Julian Whitaker who takes up the story. On April 7th about a dozen of the Ballarat VJMC crew hooked up for a run up to the Castlemaine Swap meet (actually more like a big trash ‘n treasure market as it turns out). Perfect riding weather, nobody would’ve got too hot or cold. Coming from Greendale, 30 minutes east of Ballarat, I had arranged to meet up with the rest of the riders (who were coming out of Ballarat) at Daylesford. We’d guessed the ETA for the meet, and sure enough, precisely as I pulled into the Shell servo the rest of the crew arrived from the opposite direction. (Good planning?… more like pure *rse!) Very little bike stuff at the swap meet, but entertaining nevertheless. Probably the bike stuff was all over at Scoresby where Jacko had gone to unload a uteful of his treasures on the poor unsuspecting punters over there. For the return trip a few of us headed down to
20
Vintage Japanese Motorcycle Club
Myrniong to catch the Myrniong Sprints. It’s a really nice winding road down through the Wombat Forest … Daylesford - Trentham Blackwood - Greendale, but they’ve blunted the pleasure with an 80km speed limit, (a success for wildlife lobby to be sure). ‘Back in the day’ this road was heaven on a stick on the Velocette. The Myrniong Sprints (held annually around this time) are a lot of fun if you’ve a fancy for classic and hotted-up cars. Exotica like D-type Jaguars, firebreathing Monaros, fine little Lotus 7s, to little hottie Escorts etc. They run a half-mile course winding up a hill, and if you were blind it would still be worth a visit just for the sounds. (Myrniong is an easy 50 minute run from Melbourne so catch this meeting sometime). Only incident of note was one un-named individual struggling to get reserve position on his fuel tap, causing a minor tail-back. Not at all dignified, - I’d absolutely never do something like that. Many thanks to Alan Stork for organising the run - good day. Broadford Easter Bike Bonanza A number of Western Vic members love to take their bikes to Broadford whenever they can, so the big Easter show was another opportunity. Mark Jackson had been working flat out to get his recently acquired Suzuki 350 ready in time, he and Loreen had a very enjoyable weekend meeting up with fellow member Julian Whittaker and family.
www.vjmc.org.au
Buy and sell motorcycles
service and repairs across a wide range of motorcycles
road-worthy certificates (rwc)
phone: 1300 GASSIT(1300 427748) | fax: 03 9489 9626 email: info@gassit.com.au web: www.gassit.com.au
81 Station Street, Fairfield, Victoria 3078 | Open six days a week: Monday to Friday 9:00 to 17:00 | Saturday 9:00 to 13:00
Club News
South Australia area report Words Peter Hunt
Most of the SA activity during Jan and Feb was spent getting things ready for the Rally, but on Feb 3rd, a small group gathered for a display at the inaugural Victor Harbor Auto-Jumble.
R
un by the local Historic Motor Vehicle Club, the event featured a large number of swap meet stalls, as well as numerous trade displays and other club displays. There was a great atmosphere and lots of things to look at and/or buy, as well as some fine machinery to check out. Star of the show was Grant Harding, who took out “best motorcycle” with his very nice Honda 750/4 – fully restored by himself and a credit to his skills. Rumour has it Grant is sleeping with the trophy and refuses to let it out of his sight! Well done to him! We attracted a lot of interest, some new members and some extra rally entrants – a very successful day. Thank you to those that made the effort. We’ll lock it in again for next year too.
22
Vintage Japanese Motorcycle Club
www.vjmc.org.au
Club News
Rally hangover ride and lunch
O
Ride Report - Sunday 21st April
ur “ride” day was a great day even though there was not one bike to be seen! An inch of rain, fog and wind put an end to that - but we still had 21 turn up for lunch at the Stanley Bridge Hotel. We had our own room, open fire, excellent company, excellent service and excellent food ... I can highly recommend the Stanley Lamb and Mushroom Pie! Everyone seemed to have a good time, lots of chatting and laughs, and it was a good way to wrap up the rally and start preparing for next year, gulp! Peter Donnellan, the new club Merchandise Officer,
did a great job of relieving us of some cash by way of selling some merchandise; thank you Pete. Thank you to all for attending, especially given the terrible weather. Some idiot forgot to take any photos, sack him I say ... I apologise on his behalf. Next event is Monday June 10th (Queen’s Birthday) which will be involving member Roy and wife Bev’s cafe at Piccadilly. It’s not to be missed, as this event last year was a top day. Details will follow later, but make sure you have the day marked in your diaries.
www.vjmc.org.au
Vintage Japanese Motorcycle Club
23
Club News
2013 VJMC National Rally Victor Harbor, SA - March 15th to 17th Words Peter Hunt
After months of planning, headaches, dreaming and worrying by a small band of faithful volunteers 213 bikes entered by 187 entrants from every corner of this country descended on Victor Harbor for the 2013 National Rally.
F
rom Mackay, to Hobart, to Perth, and all points in between, some people had made a huge effort travelling in excess of 5500kms to be there. This is being recognized as one of the biggest Club rallies ever, and being the 30th Anniversary of the Club was a very significant event in the history of the VJMC in Australia.
Entrants started to arrive early in the week, with most arriving on the Thursday and Friday, and by 6pm on Friday night 150+ had gathered around the camp kitchen at the rally hub, the
24
Vintage Japanese Motorcycle Club
Beachfront Holiday Park, for the welcoming bbq – kindly provided by one of the sponsors, Victor Motorcycles, and cooked by the Victor Harbor Sea Scouts – thank you guys and gals! A good time was had by all, with many catching up with friends last seen 12mths ago, and others meeting for the first time – a very social and successful way to kick the weekend off. Saturday morning, after a complimentary pancake breakfast provided by the Holiday Park and cooked up by a handful of volunteers, 140 bikes of all shapes and sizes headed off for the group ride, travelling on some fine Fleurieu Peninsula roads to arrive at the small hills township of Meadows for a refreshment stop, provided by the Meadows Community Association. After three perfect weeks of weather leading up to the rally, it was grey and windy and it unfortunately did rain at times, but enthusiasm wasn’t too dampened. Riding back to Victor Harbor the bikes were led to Warland Reserve, right in the heart of town, for the main display and concours judging. Seeing the 200+ bikes lined up on the reserve was an exciting and rewarding occasion – the colour, the chrome, the variety and the crowds really turned it into a great spectacle. Sadly the weather got a bit nasty, with strong winds gusting in off the sea, and squalls of showers passing through, but fortunately interspersed with sunny and dry breaks. Thankfully we didn’t get any of the torrential downpours that were apparently hitting
www.vjmc.org.au
Club News
Adelaide 80km to the north. Trade displays added to the interest, as did the CX Association display (celebrating their 35th Anniversary). A small team of volunteer judges worked hard and enthusiastically in very difficult conditions to come up with their selections of prize winners – never an easy job. Pre-paid lunches were provided by Rotary who did a great job and ensured that everyone got what they wanted.
Tony Sculpher - Best Bike & Best Kawasaki - z1r
syd darke - Best yamaha & Best class b 1961-1970 - YR2
Wayne von einem - Best modified - Harris Honda
Jerry Kooistra - Best competition - CB77’s
www.vjmc.org.au
Vintage Japanese Motorcycle Club
25
Club News
Mick Bulman - Best Other - Rabbit
Norm Larkin - Best Honda - CBX
Same bateman - Best unrestored & Most Desirable - RC30
Entrants started to leave around 3pm, and later gathered at the Victor Harbor Convention Centre for the dinner and awards presentations. There were 184 seated for dinner – it was a full house, and the staff and kitchen did a fine job – the meals were excellent and the service very good. A live band “The Outfitz” (yes two of them ride an outfit in observed trials etc) entertained the throng, and got a few up dancing, then it was time for the award presentations. While all this was going on, the rush was on to buy raffle tickets, with some great prizes to be won. 1200 tickets sold in less than 30 mins
meaning we had to send out a rescue party to buy some more raffle books! Once the awards were announced and presented, there was more food and music, then the raffle draw was underway ... some very happy winners of some great prizes capped off a fantastic night. A few stayed around for a social lemonade or two and more music. It was a top night with a lot of laughs and friendships made. Sunday morning saw a civilized 9.30am start to another group ride of 110 bikes, this time to the seaside town of Normanville, via the spectacular Myponga Reservoir with equally
26
Vintage Japanese Motorcycle Club
www.vjmc.org.au
Club News
spectacular views, and then back to Kent Reserve in Encounter Bay (just minutes from the rally hub) for a pre-paid bbq lunch provided by Lions. This capped off what can only be described as a great weekend. The smiles on the faces said it all.
Monday a few stragglers took the opportunity to visit Mick Bulman’s house and view his collection with a lunch kindly supplied by him and wife Jane, and Tuesday a few of us headed to the Birdwood Mill Museum to see more bikes. You just can’t get enough bike time. Great rides, great company. There are many thankyous to hand out, and I’m sure to offend by missing some out, but I must pay tribute to the exceptionally hard working Mick Godfrey and wife Faye – we have them to thank for the great sponsorship we attracted and the fantastic donations of raffle prizes, not to mention the enormous stream of emails and think-tanking that went on. Also Peter Donnellan and partner Christine – responsible for the t-shirt and badge design and supply. Tony Sculpher for leading the thankless job of judging the magnificent bikes. My partner Maxine, for support and patience as always.
www.vjmc.org.au
Vintage Japanese Motorcycle Club
27
Club News
The major sponsors – Shannons, Meguiars, Victor Motorcycles, the City of Victor Harbor, and numerous other sponsors and donors. The friends and members who volunteered their time and energy to help make things happen and run smoothly – thank you all. And let’s not forget Yvonne Foreman – dozens of her traditional world famous muffins were on offer from mid afternoon on Friday to be enjoyed with a welcoming brew – thank you Yvonne. Delicious! But most of all, thank you to each and every entrant who travelled great distances and brought their magnificent VJM’s and participated in the spirit that makes the rally and the Club a great thing to be involved in. You can all be very proud. I hope to see you all back here in 2014 (March 14th to 16th) and also hope to see a few new
faces too – you will be glad you made the effort, if only to see how much greyer the hair has got.
Raffle 2013 Supplied by Honda MPE Limited edition Honda Racing 50th Anniversary Watch Supplied by Bikemart Dririder riding jacket Supplied by Draggin Jeans Voucher to be spent at any Draggin Jeans shop Supplied by Bills Motorcycles M2R Ladies jacket Supplied by BikieChic Bag Supplied by Ficeda Ixon riding jacket & Ixon gloves Supplied by Victor Motorcycles Kawasaki racing jacket Supplied by Kenma Trelock - bike locks x 6 Supplied by Tecshox Set of rear shockers X 4 Supplied by Brass Balls Motorcycles Helmet Supplied by DC Motorcycles Voucher for M2R helmet Supplied by Yamaha Pitmans RXT open face black helmet + white helmet Supplied by Haynes MotoGP 2010 Book Supplied by Gawler Motorcycles Bikers specs Supplied by TT Motorcycles Closer to the Edge DVD Donated by Paul Millard Kawasaki watch
Other donors Suzuki Australia 15 Anniversary mugs Meguiars 15 Combo packs and samples for rally Packs Dave & Vicki Stanford at Pro-ma 2 sample packs to go with Founders and Presidents awards Birdwood Mill Museum Rally pack items SA Tourist Commission Rally pack items
28
Vintage Japanese Motorcycle Club
www.vjmc.org.au
Club News
National Rally Jeff Eeles’ Annual Rally Report
My 2013 Rally experience started many months ago. As soon as the location was announced, and the accommodation options known, I booked a cabin at the Beachfront Holiday Park … ‘Rally Central’ as it became known.
I
nitially, my wife and daughter thought that they would like to come over too but, with the weekend not aligning with the school holidays, that didn’t work for us. In the end, my brother Ivan (Central Vic Area Rep) and his son Adam decided to ride, and we organised for the three of us to do most of the trip together.
30
Vintage Japanese Motorcycle Club
Leaving Melbourne on Thursday afternoon, I did a 300km run along the Western Highway to Horsham on my ‘old faithful’ 1983 Z1300. Ivan and Adam left Bendigo about the same time and had a slightly more leisurely 200km ride to meet me there. Ivan on his Kawasaki GT550, and Adam on his recently acquired and nicely smickedup Z1000ST. It dawned on me later that we were
www.vjmc.org.au
Club News
all riding shafties … no chain oil required (but none brought either!) For two of us, our bikes were a little bit of a gamble. My Z13 had developed symptoms of fuel starvation/vapour lock over the last couple of years and had been a severe test of my patience on longer rides, never actually knowing how far I’d get before it starved for fuel and I’d have to sit by the side of the road for a couple of minutes while it refreshed its supply. For me, the internet had suggested that the fitting of a fuel pump would solve my problems, so a ZZR1100 fuel pump was sourced and fitted. Two round trips to Phillip Island, and a lengthy Club ride prior to the rally had suggested to me that I was now ‘in a good place’ and I set off somewhat confidently. Adam, on the other hand, had never ridden the ST more than a kilometre at any one time before heading off on this trip! He’d spent most of his spare time cleaning up his bike since buying it, getting it tuned, looking quite decent with fresh paint, some nice alloy polishing, a new 4 into 1, and a bit of TLC here and there. So, a 650km ride was a calculated gamble on his part … but it is a Kawasaki, so not a huge gamble! He need not have worried though, because the bike ran faultlessly to the rally, on the rally rides, and home again on the Sunday afternoon. Well done Ad!
www.vjmc.org.au
Anyway, Horsham was our first stop and an overnight stay in the comfortable if not luxurious ‘Chateau Eeles’ caravan park cabin. Thursday night was spent chatting about all the usual crap motorcyclists and family talk when they gather together and, we decided on a hearty breakfast the next morning before topping up the tanks and heading further west and on into South Aussie. We paused for fuel and a snack at Keith, and then pressed on. Having read various comments on the Club Forum, and having inherited the position of Team Navigator, I decided to make for Tailem Bend – almost – and divert south to grab the ferry at Wellington. We have to say that almost endless roadwork on the SA side of the border nearly drove us mad. Travelling along at a cruisy 110kph, you’d suddenly be confronted with an 80kph sign, followed by a 40kph and, sometimes, a 25kph. Occasionally, there’d actually be someone there doing some roadwork! So, off we’d go again. Back to 40 or 80, then up to 110 for what seemed like just a few k’s and then the whole rollercoaster would start all over again. We got through it though, and it faded into insignificance by the time we got to the rally. A chat with some ‘grey nomads’ while we waited for the Wellington Ferry passed some time. The husband and wife had noticed all the nice classic Japanese bikes along the road and were curious to know what was going on. After explaining about the VJMC Rally, I still saw them pull into
Vintage Japanese Motorcycle Club
31
Club News
And so it was that we arrived at Victor Harbor/ Beachfront Holiday Park/Rally Central just around 2’ish on Friday afternoon. We settled into our cabins after an easy check-in and made our way to the Rally Registration Hub. As you can rely on, many of the regulars were already there, including the omnipresent Yvonne and Vince! How many rallies start with one of Yvonne’s famous home-baked muffins … they’re a tradition! As tradition also dictates, the rest of Friday is spent catching up with members you haven’t seen since the last rally; watching what bikes roll in and watching couples or families arrive with bikes in tow; tracking down members from your own region … it’s endless. I think the ‘curiosity’ of this year’s rally was the ‘bubble-wrapped bike’. On more than one occasion, a newly restored ‘treasure’ arrived on site lovingly covered in layer upon layer of bubble-wrap. I’ll let you make your own judgement about that. To me, as a not-quiteso-fanatical restorer, I can understand that the owners wanted to, at least, get their latest pride
and joy to the rally without a stone chip. Saturday, many were up early for the first of the Rally Rides. After breakfast with Ivan and Adam, they fired up the bikes and lined up with the gathering throng. I prefer to stay back and catch up with friends not seen since maybe the last rally and, it’s a fantastic sight to watch all those great VJ’s heading off up the road. Gotta love the smell of 2-stroke in the morning! After chatting with those who stayed behind, and with the afternoon Rally Display looming, I thought it time to give the old Z13 a touch of ‘spit and polish’. Generally, she doesn’t look too bad but, I sought out the nearest car wash and gave her a scrub. A shot with some silicone spray and she was shining again. Pity the weather was looking like turning though. Around noon, I was off to Warland Reserve for the display. Smack in the middle of the town’s tourist precinct, this was a fantastic spot to show off the bikes. Plenty of others were already there and I was marshalled to the line-up of bikes in my year bracket … well, not my year, the bike’s year! More time was spent walking, talking and gawking! The range of bikes on display was brilliant and I’ll let the photo’s of others, printed elsewhere, do the talking for them. Lunch was really good, and well organised by the local service group arranged by the VJMC SA Team. Unfortunately, a heavy shower sent most attendees scattering for any shelter they could find nearby. It didn’t last long though, and soon everyone was back on the reserve. After the display, it was time to head back to the cabin to get ready for the AGM and Rally Dinner at the nearby McCracken Country Club. Very thoughtfully, shuttle buses were provided for those who wanted to ‘have a few’ and not ride or drive. Unfortunately, a hiccup with some paperwork caused the AGM to be postponed to Sunday morning, but the dinner went off spectacularly
Vintage Japanese Motorcycle Club
www.vjmc.org.au
the Beachfront Holiday Park an hour or so after we’d settled in. Obviously my ‘Born to be Mild’ description hadn’t scared them off. A pie with sauce and an orange juice lunch at a nice little bakery in Strathalbyn and a quick look at the map showed that we now had less than 50km to get to Victor. Hell, that’s practically just around the corner!!
32
Club News
well with a very good menu available. Later, trophies were awarded and raffles drawn. Not expecting any trophies, I’m not there for that, I thought I’d done well to score a helmet in one of the raffle draws! Thank you to DC motorcycles! But wait, there’s more! I later picked up a pair of Draggin Jeans too! Talk about bloody lucky … stuff the trophies, I’d really scored! Sunday dawned and the rearranged AGM went ahead. The Sunday Ride guys departed and Ivan and Adam made the decision to head off late morning to get back to Bendigo. Adam had no choice but to roll up to work on Monday morning. I said my ‘good-byes’ to them and spent the rest of the day wandering around the rally site, chatting and bike-spotting. In the afternoon, I took an opportunity to head into town and have a look around. I wandered over the bridge to Granite Island, just to say I had, and strolled around the older part of Victor. Back at the Holiday Park, others were busy
packing up and starting their journey home. I’d taken a little luxury and decided to stay on over Sunday night and ride home Monday. So, Monday morning, I checked out and rebooked the same cabin for next year … I’m not missing out on the next rally! A bit of a chat to the West Aus guys and I was on the road by 10:00am. The ride home was uneventful, apart from a serious disruption to my peaceful lunch at Bordertown … thanks Tom and Pete! I survived the roadwork again, wasn’t unduly bothered by police presence, and the Z13 just purred. Two fuel stops, three if you count the one near home, and I rolled in the front gate just after 7:00pm. 750km’s on a 30yo motorcycle that clicked over 91,000km’s on the way home. Loved it! A great Rally, great ride over with Ivan and Adam, great to catch up with friends and colleagues and, looking forward to next year to do it all again!
www.vjmc.org.au
Vintage Japanese Motorcycle Club
33
Club News
Let’s go to the national rally Words Steve Murden
This year I decided to attend the VJMC National Rally in S.A. I had missed the last year’s rally at Warilla as I was still recovering from my accident on the Putty Road on the way home from the Barry Sheen races in Sydney. Having been to S.A. in ‘07 for the Lake Gairdner salt races I was keen to go back and see some more of the country.
I
packed my Honda SL125 and supplies into my enclosed car trailer and my Honda FT500 into the canopy on the back of my Falcon ute. I picked up my friend Wendy at 7 am Tuesday and headed west. First night in Cobar, second in Peterborough (where we met a member of the Honda ST owners club to exchange some parts and visited the bike museum), third in Kapunda (and doing the National Motor museum and Bill’s Bike Shop at Birdwood) before finally getting to Victor Harbor on Friday in time to book in and set up camp before beer and bbq. Met a lot of nice people who made us feel welcome, had some great conversations while enjoying the meal and looking at the bikes in the park. Saturday morning was a bit chilly, and after the riders briefing we set off on the 500 for the morning ride. We only went half way before turning back to the camp to get the 125 out and polish both bikes ready for the show. The weather looked doubtful, but we got both bikes set up in the park in the centre of town just before the rest arrived back from the ride. The wind had picked up and blew several rain shower across the town while the show was on, but that didn’t stop the crowds from coming to inspect the bikes. It was a case of hide behind
34
Vintage Japanese Motorcycle Club
buildings/trees/coffee shop until the showers passed and out with a rag to wipe the bike down again. I did this several times through the day, but gave up after my bike had been judged. With over 200 hundred bikes lined up it was quite a sight, with nearly as many parked in the street belonging to spectators. I had many nice comments about the 125 restoration with many “I used to have one of them” type conversations. Show over, it was back to the camp ground and the 125 back into the trailer and a cover over the 500, a quick spruce up and to the ST owners club dinner at Middleton 8km away. Sunday morning, Stu from Casino came to give me the trophy for ‘best single cylinder’ that he had accepted on my behalf at the VJMC dinner, thanks Stu. The weather had turned cold (jumpers and beanie) and was blowing directly from Antarctica. The wind had been so strong during the night that it had ripped the awning and I had to get out in my ‘jarmies’ to roll it up. With a low dark cloud cover, we again went on the organised ride, this time going the full distance across the Fleurieu Peninsula via Mount Compass, Myponga, Yankalilla to the ‘beach’ at Normanville before returning along the ridges to lunch at Victor Harbor, with only a couple of light showers on the way. We spent the
www.vjmc.org.au
Club News
rest of the afternoon playing tourist and talking with other rally people. We had planned to ride the 500 to catch the ferry at Cape Jervis to Kangaroo Island on Monday, but the wind had turned even stronger and there was a massive rain storm coming from out to sea, so we decided to leave before it hit. We loaded the 500 and had everything packed up and got to the main street before the rain came bucketing down. We headed inland to leave the rain behind and camped at Renmark. Spent a day in Mildura at museums and paddle boat cruise, next night Hay (where the rain started again), to Temora to visit Wendy’s relatives and the Air Museum, a night
in Forbes and home late Saturday afternoon. 3538km in total. Looking back now two weeks later, it was an adventure that I really enjoyed and would like to do again. The great people I met and chatted and laughed with is a memory that I will treasure. Being a part of an historic event (30th anniversary of VJMC) and of the camaraderie on the rides was something special. Being with 200+ other people who only wanted to talk bikes (and not crap or politics) left me wanting more. The long boring straight roads gave me a further appreciation of just how big this country is, and how much more there is for me to see.
www.vjmc.org.au
Vintage Japanese Motorcycle Club
35
restoration
The festivus miracle #2 Readers may remember the story of the “Festivus Miracle” in issue 113, the story of the (mostly) NOS XL600RMG brought back from eternal storage.
I
t ended with the prediction that my son would not want it. Well initially, that was the case; my oldest said “I don’t want that, I’ll buy a new one when I get my licence”. So the younger son piped up with, “If he doesn’t want it, I’ll have it!”, and so it was spoken for. As my older son got towards licencing age, he soon realised that due to perennial laziness and lack
of funds, he would never be able to afford a new bike, or any sort of bike for that matter. He came up to me one day with a sullen face, “I wish I hadn’t turned down that bike, it would be nice to have it as a leaner bike.” Well, being the ever loving-father that I am, and looking for a new project anyway, I took stock of the situation. I had enough bits left over that, if I found a suitable donor bike with a sound bottom end, I’d be able to cobble something together. Well the eBay search began, and a few were found in far flung areas, but transport to Sydney was difficult or expensive. Finally one turned up in Arncliffe, and a bid which included the
The second donor bike with all broken parts removed
36
Vintage Japanese Motorcycle Club
www.vjmc.org.au
restoration
“Sydney premium” (the money saved by not having to ship the bike or travel 500km to pick it up) secured it. It was a very sad sight. It had no original plastics, and the aftermarket stuff on it was destroyed anyway. The seat was covered it what appeared to be raw cow hide attached with contact adhesive and no attention paid at all to removing any wrinkles. It looked like someone had taken to the petrol tank with a ball peen hammer, and then painted it red with a paint brush. Even the guy selling it asked “why are you buying this piece of s**t?” It did, however, still have the original, and very rare, exhaust system. When I got it to work (remember that the wife must know nothing about building motorbikes for the children) I rolled it off the trailer and found that the suspension at both ends had no damping whatsoever. The speedo hanging off the wiring showed 36000km, so the poor bike must have had a very hard life indeed.
www.vjmc.org.au
Vintage Japanese Motorcycle Club
37
restoration
As a first step, I tried starting the motor. It started and ran, and sounded quite good, but blew clouds of smoke which would not clear up. Work then began by stripping off all the junk. Cleaning off all the mud and oil showed the core of the bike to be in remarkably untouched condition. Every clip, grommet and cover was still there and well preserved under layers of grime. In fact, this bike would have been a far better donor for the NOS bike, as the parts I
I pulled the top end off the motor and noticed that one exhaust port was full of carbon. Further investigation revealed a loose valve guide, which was letting oil into the port. Luckily I had a near new head from the initial stock of parts I obtained, so that was pressed into service with new valve guide seals. I used a near new cylinder, and put new rings on the existing piston, and the motor was buttoned up. I thought I’d risk not splitting the cases, as
needed were far more original and unmolested. I stripped the bike down, as well as the rolling chassis of the first donor bike, and started going through the piles of bits. There must be something miraculous about my relationship with these bikes, as everything that was worn out or broken on one bike, was serviceable on the other. The final proof of divine intervention was the rear swing arm linkages. Both mechanisms had half the bearings destroyed; however, they were the opposite halves. I was able to get a full set of good bearings between the two.
the motor sounded fine on the initial start-up. The big challenge was repairing the plastics, as this bike is quite rare and the plastics are impossible to find. I managed to affect a passable repair on the ones I had, and a repaint had the bike looking acceptable. The final touch was the discovery of a guy in Wales, U.K., who made me a replacement seat cover for $50 delivered. I repaired the seat foam, and the cover fitted perfectly. I put the original exhaust system onto FM1, and put the noisy aftermarket system on FM2. I made up
38
Vintage Japanese Motorcycle Club
www.vjmc.org.au
restoration
All finished with a handy top box to boot
an extra baffle to try and shut it up, and it is acceptable now. I would however still like to find an XR600 muffler to graft on. Upon looking at the remaining bits, I was indeed taken by the miraculousness of the entire endeavour, as all I was left with was a pile of worn out and useless junk. There is no temptation to build yet another one, as nothing remaining is of any use. Now that the rego for a 250 is the same cost as a 650 in NSW, it didn’t pain me at all to let the rego on my KLX250 lapse and register the 600 in its place. I’ve been riding FM2 for many months now, and it’s a great commuter and short tourer. I tried some trail riding, but soon discovered how much suspension has improved in 25 years. It’s not a trail bike. My son has started riding it on his Ls, and although complaining (he whinges about everything) is quite happy to have his own transport. So, in conclusion, yet another pile of junk lives to ride the roads again!
www.vjmc.org.au
Vintage Japanese Motorcycle Club
39
C l u b info
Historic Rego NSW Conditional Registration Sydney Roadworthy Inspections David Bernardi | 0431 661 769 mrdbernardi@gmail.com All other NSW areas contact Lyndon Adams | (02) 4945 1780 lyndarra@gmail.com
ACT Stan Perry | (02) 6296 7274 stanper@hotmail.com
VICTORIA CLUB PERMIT SCHEME INSPECTORS
Vintage Japanese Motorcycle Club Inc
T
he VJMC is a worldwide club. There are independent branches in North America (USA/Canada), UK, New Zealand and Australia. Some enthusiasts are members of more than one branch. Direct enquiries for overseas branches of the VJMC to: North America President: Stuart Covington, 55 Howard St, Lunenburg, MA 01462 USA. Website: www.vjmc.org Email: stucov@comcast.net United Kingdom Chairman: Malcolm Linsley, VJMC PO Box 21671 Falkirk, FK1 9AL. Website: www.vjmc.com Email: chairman_vjmc@yahoo.co.uk New Zealand: Ross & Trudy Charlton, 2 Te Miti St, Paekakariki, Wellington. Email: ross.judy@xtra.co.nz
40
Vintage Japanese Motorcycle Club
Melbourne - Inner East Mike Darling | 0412 265 981 Melbourne - West Kevin Drazdauskas | 0419 884 560 Melbourne - South East Trevor Whitty | 0419 807 212 Central Vic Graeme Climas | (03) 5446 3844 West Gippsland Dennis Flynn | 0407 359 278
QLD Club Registration Scheme Brisbane Graeme Knight | 0411 034 938
The club has a sizeable library of magazines, workshop manuals and parts manuals for members to use. Enquires: library@vjmc.org.au
www.vjmc.org.au
cl u b info
Regional
Meets ACT Meet: The Mawson Club Heard Street, Mawson, ACT 7.30pm on the third Wednesday night of each month. Contact: Ian Stevens 0407 706 705 iansac50@tpg.com.au
NSW
QLD
Mid Hunter Meet: 7pm on the 1st Tuesday of every odd-numbered month at Greta Workers Club. Cnr New England Highway & West Street Contact: Allan Kensitt (02)4938 7223 or 0405 492700 Tamworth Meet: Tamworth City Bowling Club ANZAC Park, Brisbane St, Tamworth. 6.30pm last Thursday of every month. Contact Paul 0411 696 852 motopaulie@bigpond.com
Regional
Canberra Ian Stevens 0407 706 705 iansac50@tpg.com.au
NSW
VIC
Melbourne Metro Meet: Grandview Hotel Cnr Station Street & Heidelberg Road, Fairfield 7.00pm on the last Tuesday night of each month Central Vic Meet: Garlands Bakehouse & Cafe 124 High Street, Kangaroo Flat 10.00am every Sunday morning Contact: Ivan Eeles (03) 5448 4746 familyeeles@hotmail.com
Representatives ACT
South East Qld Meet: Belmont Tavern Cnr Burstall Ave & Belmont Rd, Belmont. 7pm second Tues of each month. Contact: Steve Day 0409 196 825 stevexday@gmail.com
South Coast Patrick Sager (02) 4473 6191 padsager@gmail.com Sydney David Bernardi 0431 661 769
mrdbernardi@gmail.com
VIC Central Victoria Ivan Eeles (03) 5448 4746 familyeeles@hotmail.com Melbourne John Doward 0467 280 425 jrha0747@tpg.com.au
Bathurst Vacant. Rep required.
Sydney Inner Steve O’Farrell (02) 9517 3490 sofarrell@premecha.com
Far North Coast Rob Andrews (02) 6621 4083 and32@bigpond.net.au
Sydney South/West Allan Dykstra (02) 9824 7165 adykstra@tpg.com.au
Goulburn Malcolm Peden (02) 4821 5060 pedenmj@westnet.com.au
Tamworth Paul Rowling 0411 696 852 motopaulie@bigpond.com
Hunter Vince Foreman (02) 4973 1852 vinceyvonne@bigpond.com.au
Queensland
West Gippsland Dennis Flynn 0407 359 278 denfly1@bigpond.com
Mackay Peter & Helen Douglas (07) 4954 3653
Western Victoria Alan & Pam Stork 0401 995 060 pamstork@optusnet.com.au
South East Queensland Steve Day stevexday@gmail.com.au
WA
Manning Steve Wardle (02) 6551 5546 canvasz1000@bigpond.com Mid Hunter Allan Kensit (02) 4938 7223 midhuntervjmc@yahoo.com.au Mid North Coast Trevor Ellis (02) 6655 5911 wel91723@bigpond.net.au North West Graeme Tonkin (02) 6724 8454 gjtvallyn@bigpond.com.au
Sunshine Coast Vacant - rep required
SA
South Australia Peter Hunt 0418 214 754 phunty@bigpond.net.au
North East Victoria Bob & Jenny Kitchener (03) 5775 1370 vjmcnortheastvic@hotmail.com North West Victoria
Trevor Lawrence 0412 469 337 thedon07@bigpond.com
West Australia Norm Larkin 0412 684 097 bikesales@causewaykawasaki.com.au More Info: Contact Peter Hunt 0418 214 754 if you are interested in getting VJMC happening in your area.
Queanbeyan Rob Hogan (02) 6299 7579 robandcarolyn@bigpond.com
www.vjmc.org.au
Vintage Japanese Motorcycle Club
41
Member Renewal Annual subs VJMC Inc
I
OFFICIAL USE ONLY Received Renewal Date Received $
f your fees are due, please complete and send this renewal slip with payment. Direct Credit is now available. If paying by direct credit, please complete and send this renewal as confirmation.
Cash / Cheque / MO / Direct Credit
Member No
Reply Sent
Receipt No
Name Due Date Cost: $40 single, $50 family. Additional Info (address / contact change etc)
Email I give the VJMC Committe and Reps permission for my contact details to be provided to other members on request. (Name, phone, email and locality only). Signed Date Cheques / Money orders payable to VJMC Inc, or Direct Credit: VJMC Inc Australia BSB 062-801 ACC 10-240-688 (Commonwealth) Please include your member number as detail. Send to: VJMC Inc PO Box 254 Modbury North SA 5092
42
Vintage Japanese Motorcycle Club
From
Annual Fees Australian residents Family (member + 1 other) New Zealand Overseas
1/6/12 1/7/12 New Renew $45 $40 $55 $50 $50 $45 $55 $50
www.vjmc.org.au
Please contribute Email contributions to: tom@pepperpublishing.com.au
We are looking for articles / photos/ letters for future issues of the mag.
www.vjmc.org.au
Vintage Japanese Motorcycle Club
43