VJMC #158

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 & Renewals VJMC Inc, PO Box 254 Modbury North SA 5092 Website www.vjmc.org.au

VJMC

Australia Committee

President John McNair | President@vjmc.org.au

Vice President Paul Rowling | VicePresident@vjmc.org.au

Secretary Amanda Carlyle | Secretary@vjmc.org.au

Treasurer John King | Treasurer@vjmc.org.au

Public Officer David Bernardi | PublicOfficer@vjmc.org.au

Area Rep Co-ordinator Wayne Lavers | AreaReps@vjmc.org.au

Membership Secretary Mick Godfrey | Membership@vjmc.org.au

Merchandise Officer Peter Donellan | Merchandise@vjmc.org.au

General Member Peter Douglas | Mackay@vjmc.org.au

General Member Tony Mahoney | VJMCTas@gmail.com

National Rally 2023 Phil Scorah | NationalRally@vjmc.org.au

Librarian David Quinn | Library@vjmc.org.au

Magazine Editor Tom Calderwood | Editor@vjmc.org.au

QUARTERLY VJMC MAGAZINE

This is a forum for members to exchange ideas and restoration tips, seek advice, share opinions and experiences, or anything else relating to the club’s objectives. Contributions are very welcome.

John Ingle and his Yamaha 250

FIRSTLY, I WOULD LIKE TO SAY A BIG THANK YOU TO CLUB MEMBER DAVID HUXTABLE WHO HAS VOLUNTEERED FOR THE VACANT SECRETARY POSITION ON THE NATIONAL COMMITTEE. WELCOME ABOARD DAVID. OUR NATCOM TEAM WORKS TO PROVIDE THE BEST, FOR OUR CLUB NOW AND IN THE FUTURE. THANK YOU ALSO TO TONY MAHONEY FOR STEPPING INTO ONE OF THE TWO GENERAL COMMITTEE POSITIONS IN PLACE OF ALAN STEVENS WHO HAD STEPPED DOWN FROM THE POSITION. I WOULD LIKE TO THANK ALAN FOR HIS CONTRIBUTION TO THE CLUB DURING HIS TIME ON THE COMMITTEE ALSO.

The VJMC has also got its Junior Encouragement Grant up and running. John King has taken the reins for this and will handle enquiries for this grant. There is more info on this grant elsewhere in this issue.

I really appreciate the work put in by all our Area Reps but I must say I am very pleased with the way the bike event at Tooradin on the outskirts of Melbourne is going. Dave Parker has done an amazing job with this event which gains enormous publicity for the VJMC. Fantastic effort Dave. On the subject of great efforts, I must also say congratulations to Phil Scorah and the Bendigo National Rally Committee. What an awesome job you have done for this year’s event. Looking forward to the 2023 National Rally, to be held again in Bendigo. One of the things I love about these rallies is the chance to catch up with members from all the other states and areas. Great to see a couple of members travelling all the way over from Western Australia for this year’s event. Hope to see you back there in 2023. I think

we will have quite a few there from Tasmania next year too. The Tasmanian membership has greatly increased thanks to the great efforts from the Reps in the various areas down there. The recent Monto Muster in Queensland was again a big success with members attending from Mackay to the Gold Coast and also one member from Sydney attended. John Ingle trailered his Yamaha 250 up from Sydney and took part in the various rides on the Saturday. John has owned the Yamaha since purchasing it new in the late 60’s. A great effort to travel all the way up for the event. Congratulations to Phil Heggie who coordinated the event and anyone else who helped out in anyway. Also a big thank you to all the sponsors including Precision Powder Coating at Yatala south of Brisbane.

Ride safe. John McNair President

ENCOURAGEMENT AWARD

THE VJMC IS GIVING AN ANNUAL ENCOURAGEMENT AWARD TO A MALE AND FEMALE AGED 30 AND UNDER TO HELP FOSTER AND ENCOURAGE THE RESTORATION AND PRESERVATION OF A HISTORICAL JAPANESE MOTORCYCLE.

These awards will be in the name of Yvonne Foreman, who was a life member and has recently passed away, and Len Collins, who was the first chairman and was member number one in Australia, also deceased. These two people are being recognized for what they have done to help make the club what it is today.

The award will consist of a grant of $500 to go towards the restoration plus a year’s free membership of the VJMC. The idea is to enjoy restoring and riding a historical Japanese motorcycle and build self-esteem and confidence in the applicant’s abilities and have pride in their workmanship. The grant is to help fund the project.

The applicants will need to make a submission to the VJMC national committee by November 30 each year through a local branch or the address below so that submissions can be discussed and the grantees notified in time for a presentation to them, or a nominee, at the rally in the following year.

The submission will need details such as name, age, address and details of what

they hope to achieve in the restoration. Work that has been completed, future costings and time frame along with a project report. It is suggested that they have a mentor who can give advice and assistance in the project. Photos and documentation would be of assistance in the nominees’ submission.

On completion it would be appreciated if the project could be shown at VJMC events including the annual rally with a description of the work undertaken.

The awards will be open to current VJMC members or prospective members.

At the time of going to print, the club had received on applicant for the grant. It would be great to see more coming in!

Nominations should be send to:

The Treasurer, VJMC Inc Australia 8 Oxley Street, Windale NSW 2306 or via email

pir8@internode.on.net

Australian Registered body number is 634 920 193

VJMC AUSTRALIA INC SOCIAL GRANT

AT THE 2022 BENDIGO AGM THE SOCIAL FUND WAS REPLACED BY THE SOCIAL GRANT TO BRANCHES OF $200. SO FAR NINE OF THE THIRTY SIX BRANCHES HAVE CLAIMED IT. AS A GRANT, NO RECEIPTS ARE REQUIRED SO IT SHOULD MAKE IT EASIER FOR THE BRANCHES TO CLAIM.

The social grant is in place to have a social gathering of members (and partners) to foster renewed social interactions.

It may be a sausage sizzle, a Christmas party, a coffee get together or any other social

gathering that you can think of including a drink.

I would ask the other 27 branches to apply and if bank details are provided (name, BSB and account number), I will do the transfer on receipt. Discuss

at your meetings and hopefully the VJMC national committee can return some of your funds to your local area.

John King VJMC Treasurer

PHOTO: Japan’s Motorcycle Wars: An Industry History

TASMANIAN NEWS

DEVONPORT MOTOR SHOW BIKES (DMS)

Article by Tony Mahoney

ON THE 27TH MARCH 2022 THE NORTH, NORTHWEST, SOUTHERN CENTRAL AND SOUTHERN TASMANIAN AREAS OF THE VJMC TASMANIA COMBINED FOR THE FIRST TIME TO SUPPORT THE ROTARY CLUB OF DEVONPORT NORTH TO PROVIDE A BIKE SHOW AS PART OF THE DEVONPORT MOTOR SHOW WHICH HAS BEEN RUNNING FOR 16 YEARS.

The Devonport Motor Show generates money through gate takings and 100% of the profit is distributed to Charitable organisations state wide.

There were over 140 motorcycles in 2022, 5000 people attended and the Rotary Club of Devonport North raised $50,000 for distribution to a number of charitable organisation.

Following the overwhelming success of the 2022 event the VJMC Tasmania will again support the Rotary Club of Devonport North by organising the bike section of the 2023 show.

Current planning indicate that the 2023 event will be much larger than the 2022 event which provides a great opportunity for the VJMC Tasmania to advertise and promote the club within Tasmania and beyond.

The DMS will be held on the 26 March 2022 the weekend following the National Rally

in Bendigo and the VJMC Tasmania would like to invite anybody who might be interested in riding our Tasmanian roads to make the journey over the strait to join us. The weather will be good for riding at that time of the year and I suspect you will enjoy our roads.

More news to follow and I look forward to seeing everyone at the Rally.

TASMANIAN RIDE NEWS

The Ride travelled to Latrobe in support of a Pink October fundraiser and ended up in Latrobe at the bike show, organised by the Bellchamber family, around 11.15am. The bike show was held at a member’s residence and attracted a large crowd and some very interesting motorcycles.

The group had lunch at the bike show and then headed off in glorious bike riding conditions towards Cradle Mountain in search of all those legendary Tasmanian bike roads. The day ended at around 4.30pm at a gin distillery in Spreyton for a chat and a drink.

Words & Pics: Tony Mahoney

Bikes all set to go from the Bridge Hotel

Smoko on Round Mountain Rd behind Mount Roland

The line-up at the Pink October fundraiser

Nice 2 stroke triple Suzuki adding atmosphere

By Mick Godfrey

Many clubs took part, and the presentation of displays is improving with every year this event takes place.

We had our display in the usual place, at one end of the oval, while the Z Owners Club had their display at the other goalposts, celebrating 50 years of the 900. We utilised both our gazebos for the first time, and it was a great improvement as the sun was out and the shade was appreciated. We had two members who won prizes, one was for his Z900 on the other display and Mick Bulman took out the Best Japanese with his Tohatsu Runpet. We would have had 20 or 30 bikes around our gazebos at one time, I didn’t count as I was run off my feet talking to interested people and handing out application forms.

Overall, it was a great success, and I was told that the attendance topped last year’s 4500. I could believe it as I looked over the huge mass of bikes parked on the oval.

ON NOVEMBER 6TH, THE LIONS CLUB PUT ON THE MACCLESFIELD BIKE SHOW.

Mick Bulman’s Tohatsu Runpet won Best Japanese bike.

Z Owners Club celebrating 50 years of the 900.

Plenty of variety on the VJMC stand.

The sun came out and the bikes turned out in their droves.

First up was meeting at Cameron Park shopping complex then off to Bolwarra Heights to meet up with Allan Kensitt and his members of the Mid Hunter at the Bolwarra lookout.

From there the members rode down past Seaham turnoff and through to Clarencetown, right towards Stroud and down Limeburners creek then onto the Bucketts way to 12 mile creek and on to the waterfront at Karuah.

With around 45 members and over 30 bikes it was an incredible turnout and I would like to thank all those who attended as well as those who helped with the setting up as well as cooking on the B.B.Q. it is with your support and assistance that makes these outings a success.

WELL IT’S BEEN A WHILE SINCE THE LOWER HUNTER GROUP OF NEW SOUTH WALES HAVE BEEN ABLE TO HAVE A MEMORIAL RUN FOR OUR LATE MEMBER PHIL KENDRIGAN DUE TO NOT JUST THE WEATHER BUT THE COVID VIRUS.

Article by Chris Hellyer

SOME TIME AGO WHILE RESTORING A HONDA CB750K2, I REQUIRED SOME PARTS SO I RANG WEMOTO AT BOMBADERY ON THE SOUTH COAST OF NEW SOUTH WALES AND SPOKE WITH PAVEL, THE OWNER, AS I HAVE DONE MANY TIMES. BEING THE CHAIRMAN OF THE LOWER HUNTER REGION I WAS INVITED TO VISIT THEIR WAREHOUSE WHENEVER I WAS IN THE AREA.

July of this year my partner and myself decided to visit friends at Shell Harbour near Wollongong and on day two I dropped my girl off at the shopping centre and headed off to Wemoto.

Wemoto started in 1976 in Wallsend, London, selling parts for Japanese motorcycles and in the 90’s opened up another store in Brighton. In 2008 it had become very popular and bye the year 2015 Pavel, the owner, opened up a franchise in Bombaderry N.S.W. in 2015.

Pavel purchases his parts from England and uses DHL for his deliveries they are a little more expensive to use but they get way better results. They supply many parts for the popular Japanese models but have no trouble ordering parts in for

models right across the range. Whenever things are quiet in the store/warehouse they also spend time restoring the stores bikes that Pavel has purchased as this gives them a good idea of the parts required to restore a particular model. There are two Yamaha RD250s, one being rescued from the bushfires and the other being rescued from floods. So if you’re needing parts for your restoration don’t hesitate to give Wemoto a call on (02) 4421 7048 and talk to Pavel, Jake or Chris.

Chris Hellyer, Chairman Lower Hunter Group

DEAR MEMBERS,

THE RALLY COMMITTEE FOR THE 2021 SUZUKI VJMC NATIONAL RALLY RECEIVED A LOT OF FEEDBACK ABOUT HOW ENJOYABLE AND SUCCESSFUL THE RALLY WAS.

FROM THE FEEDBACK RECEIVED, THE TYPICAL VJMC NATIONAL RALLY FORMULA WILL PLAY OUT AGAIN.

WE ARE EXCITED TO AGAIN WELCOME SUZUKI AUSTRALIA AS THE NAMED RALLY SPONSOR. –

2023 SUZUKI

VJMC NATIONAL RALLY

BENDIGO

17, 18 and 19th March 2023.

The formula for the past rally will follow and build on the success of these events: -

Rally Central: Big 4 Park Lane will again be Rally Central and host the Welcome BBQ on the Friday night Saturday and Sunday Breakfasts Departure location for the Saturday and Sunday morning rides Host the Annual General Meeting on the Sunday morning.

Show and Shine:

The Show and Shine will be at a different location in the Bendigo CBD; details to follow

Awards Dinner:

The Awards dinner on the Saturday night, (18th March) at the All Seasons Resort Hotel function rooms with a variety of guest speakers

Rally Raffle:

A brand new Suzuki JR80 will again be raffled with the proceeds going to Beyond Bluehttps://www.beyondblue.org.au/ Rally Registration is now open and can be done via the VJMC Website Homepage links for online or attached forms or via the entry form included in this issue of the VJMC Magazine.

Communication updates will be via email to all members with emails, via the VJMC website Homepage and Facebook.

One valuable lesson learned from the last rally this year is rally registrations need to be made early. Do not leave it to the last moment.

For the 2023 Suzuki VJMC National Rally, entries must close in Friday February 17 2023.

In the current climate, if we leave registering to later this makes it very hard for the Rally Organisers to deliver the best value for the rally participants and the lowest possible cost.

Post the COVID pandemic lockdowns and the ongoing weather events in Australia are causing prolonged supplier delivery timeframes. For example, if the number of rally entrants increases close to the event, additional merchandise ordered will be at a cost premium and may not be available in time for the rally event dates. Similarly with catering, late increases in catering numbers will cost more and we may not be able to accommodate late entrants.

The VJMC Club contributes towards the costs of the registration, facilities hired, catering and the trophies. This is done to ensure the best value possible for VJMC members attending the rally. Late entries contribute to higher costs and VJMC Club contributions necessary.

The message is ‘Be There’ and make your rally entries early.

Accommodation:

Rally Central is Big 4 Park Lane https://www. parklaneholidayparks.com.au/bendigo/big4bendigo-park-lane-holiday-park

There is a second is the Big 4 Tasman (formerly Ascot) very close to Park Lane https://www.big4.com.au/caravan-parks/vic/ goldfields/bendigo-ascot-holiday-park

Or contact the Bendigo Customer Service Centre https://www.bendigoregion.com.au/ explore-bendigo/bendigoaccommodation/search and free call number 1800 813 153 for assistance with finding accommodation. .

If you require any other assistance or have questions, please do not hesitate to ask.

Email: NationalRally@vjmc.org.au

Honda H100 Best Original Unrestored

Post:

Vintage Japanese Motorcycle Club Rally PO BOX 2069 PARKDALE. VICTORIA. 3195

More details will follow on the VJMC website, National Rally Forum and VJMC Australia Facebook.

Mark this date in your calendar to ‘Be There’. We look forward to seeing you there in Bendigo in March 2023.

Phil Scorah

For the Rally Committee – 2023 Suzuki VJMC National Rally

Our mailing address for the 2021 VJMC National Rally is:

Vintage Japanese Motorcycle Club Rally PO Box 2069 Parkdale. Victoria. 3195

NationalRally@vjmc.org.au

Prestine Katanas on show

Pre-ordered Meals

Specific dietary requirements - Gluten Free  Vegetarian  Vegan  (Selections will be passed on to the catering venue to ensure appropriate choice)

Food allergies including food allergies (eg. prawns, peas, peanuts, bovine) : -

Friday Dinner (At Rally Central Park Lane –Rankine Catering) Sausage, Hamburger and Smorgasbord salads @ $28.00 Qty.

Saturday Breakfast (At Rally Central Park Lane – Rankine Catering)

Egg and Bacon Rolls, Cold continental breakfast. @ $19.00 Qty.

Saturday Dinner (All Seasons Resort) Plated Service, Tea and Coffee @ $60.00 Qty.

Sunday Breakfast (At Rally Central Park Lane – Rankine Catering)

Egg and Bacon Rolls, Cold continental breakfast. @ $19.00 Qty.

Total for Pre-ordered Meals C $

Rally Raffle Tickets

Raffle Tickets can be purchased as part of the Rally Registration. The Prize is a new Suzuki JR80 delivered through the Suzuki Dealer closest to the winner’s location

The Raffle supports Beyond Blue – https://www.beyondblue.org.au/ Tickets will be sold up until the evening of the 18 March 2023 Ticket numbers are selected at random

The Winner will be drawn at the Awards Dinner – All Seasons Resort on Saturday 18 March 2023

The winner will be announced via the VJMC Website, Facebook, VJMC Magazine and the April Old Bike Australasia magazine.

Single Raffle Ticket

Multiple Raffle Ticket

Purchased individually – Ticket number selected at random @ $10.00 Qty.

Purchased in group / batch of 3 –Ticket numbers selected at random @ 3 for $25.00 Total Qty.

Total Raffle Tickets Purchase D $

Rally Registration Enquiries: RallyReg@vjmc.org.au or 0412 162 863

National Rally Entry v4.0

MERCHANDISE PACK

Satchel bag

ADULTS S M L XL 2XL 3XL 4XL 5XL

CHEST 53.5 56 58.5 61 63.5 66 68.5 71 LENGTH 70.5 74.5 77 79.5 82 83 84 85

Measure shirt face down – chest & length

ADULTS S M L XL 2XL 3XL 4XL 5XL CHEST 53.5 56 58.5 61 63.5 66 68.5 71 LENGTH 70.5 72 74 76 78 80 82 84

Motorcycle Details

Motorcycle #1

Motorcycle #2

Year Make Year Make Model Model Rego# Capacity Rego# Capacity  Concours Condition Yes  No  * Concours Condition Yes  No 

Motorcycle #3 Motorcycle #4

Year Make Year Make Model Model Rego# Capacity Rego# Capacity  Concours Condition Yes  No  * Concours Condition Yes  No 

Motorcycle #5 Motorcycle #6

Year Make Year Make Model Model Rego# Capacity Rego# Capacity  Concours Condition Yes  No  * Concours Condition Yes  No 

Motorcycle #7 Motorcycle #8

Year Make Year Make Model Model Rego# Capacity Rego# Capacity  Concours Condition Yes  No  * Concours Condition Yes  No 

* Only select Yes if motorcycle is in Concours condition (i.e., ex-factory condition–may be original or restored). Please note that motorcycles entered in the Concours class are required to be over 25 years old and will not be considered for other awards. Motorcycles entering the general classes are required to be over 15 years old to be eligible for awards.

Rally Registration Enquiries: RallyReg@vjmc.org.au or 0412 162 863

Payments Due

Total for Registration A $

Total for Merchandise B $

Total for Pre-Ordered Meals C $ Raffle Tickets D $

Total Payment $

Payment Details

 Payment by Cheque/Money Order

Please make cheque/money order payable to: Vintage Japanese Motorcycle Club Inc

Post your entry to:

VJMC Rally Registrar

PO Box 2069 Parkdale Vic 3195 or scan entry and email to RallyReg@vjmc.org.au

 Payment by Direct Deposit (preferred)

Financial Institution: CBA BSB Number: 062-801 Account Number: 1024 0696

Account Name: VJMC Rally Account Reference: Your Member No (if applicable) and Surname

We will email and text you a confirmation of entry

For all persons intending to ride/pillion and/or display a motorcycle at the rally

Riders and pillions are required to acknowledge that they have read and understood the below statements by ticking the below checkbox on registration for 2023 VJMC National Rally (to be held 17 - 19 March 2023) (“the Rally”).

Risk Warning, Disclaimer and Indemnity

Acknowledgement of Risks

I acknowledge that the risks associated with attending or participating in the Rally include, but are not limited to, the risk that I may suffer harm or loss as a result of -

● motorcycles and other motor vehicles (or parts of them) colliding with other motorcycles, motor vehicles, persons or property,

● other participants acting dangerously or with insufficient skill, and

● noise exposure and exhaust fumes.

Exclusion of Liability, Release and Indemnity

In exchange for being able to attend or participate in the Rally, I agree to -

● to release the VJMC, its National Committee, the Rally Organising Committee and all persons associated or assisting any of these entities, committees or persons with the conduct of the Rally to the full extent permissible by law from all liability for -

● my death;

● any physical or mental injury (including the aggravation, acceleration or recurrence of such an

Rally Registration Enquiries: RallyReg@vjmc.org.au or 0412 162 863 2023 VJMC National Rally Entry v4.0

injury);

● the contraction, aggravation or acceleration of a disease including, but not only COVID-19;

● the coming into existence, the aggrava�on, accelera�on or recurrence of any other condition, circumstance, occurrence, activity, form of behaviour, course of conduct or state of affairs -

● that is or may be harmful or disadvantageous to me, my family, my dependents or the community; or

● that may result in harm or disadvantage to me, my family, my dependents or the community,

● any claim for any costs and expenses I may incur as a consequence of any of the above; arising from my participation in or attendance at the Rally;

● to indemnify and hold harmless and keep indemnified the VJMC, its National Committee, the Rally Organising Committee and all persons associated or assisting any of these entities, committees or persons to the maximum extent permitted by law in respect of any claim by any person;

● to a� end at or par�cipate in the Rally at my own risk; and

● I will not hold the VJMC, its National Committee, the Rally Organising Committee or any persons associated or assisting any of these entities, committees or persons or its sponsors responsible for any damage to or theft of any motorcycle, other motor vehicle, goods or possessions brought by me to the Rally.

I further declare and confirm that -

● I have a current and valid motorcycle licence that permits the use of any motorcycle I shall ride in Victoria and for the duration of the Rally.

● Any motorcycle I ride will be mechanically sound, appropriately registered, or be operating under a permit scheme, and shall have third party insurance that covers its use whilst riding in Victoria and during the Rally.

● I shall at all times comply with the terms of the relevant registration/permit scheme for any motorcycle I ride.

● I acknowledge that Rally Organising Committee reserves the right to prevent riders and/or motorcycles not complying with any of these conditions from taking part in Rally organised rides.

● In respect of any judging or award made by the Rally Organising Committee or its judges I accept the judge’s decision will be final and that absolutely NO correspondence or protests will be accepted.

Rally Registration Enquiries: RallyReg@vjmc.org.au or 0412 162 863

For a number of years, on weekends I worked for the Road Traffic Authority as a casually employed motorcycle instructor for their prelicence Learner Rider Course. Instructors had to do an advanced rider training course

run by Driver Education Centre of Australia (DECA) located up at Shepparton in central Victoria. Because the SR500 was my training demonstrator bike, I rode it up to Shepparton and successfully completed the course on it, including doing

some fairly rapid cornering on the closed to traffic track where we practiced counter-steering, trail-braking and nailing late apex corners. The course was great and we learned a lot about riding skills and road-craft, which we’ll go into some time.

Pics: David James

VJMC MEMBER AND REGULAR CONTRIBUTOR ROBERT CARMICHAEL RECOUNTS HIS MOST MEMORABLE RIDING MOMENT, WHICH INVOLVED A YAMAHA SR500 SWINGING-ARM HANGING LITERALLY BY A THREAD.

After the training session I was riding back to Melbourne at legal speed when I felt that there was something wrong with the way the bike was handling. Looking down between the petrol tank and my left leg I saw that the swinging-arm pivot shaft had worked itself about half way out of the frame and the whole swinging-arm assembly was wobbling about. See photo for the location of pivot shaft on the frame gusset just behind the engine.

Note the locknut on the end of the shaft. Loss of this nut meant the pivot shaft could work its way out on the bike’s other side.

I thought to myself, “Now if I hit the brakes, that shaft will come right out and the whole swingingarm assembly will crash to the ground and I’ll go down the road at about 100kph”. So very gently I gradually rolled the throttle off without touching the brakes, but by this time the shaft had nearly worked its way completely out and the whole rear end of the bike was slewing from side to side. Eventually the bike came to a stop and with a huge sigh of relief I put the bike on its side-stand and inspected the situation.

On the left hand side there was only about four or five centimetres of the shaft still in contact with the frame of the then actually ‘swinging’ arm assembly. The shaft had fractured near the right hand end and both the locknut and the brokenoff threaded end of the shaft were missing. What

caused the shaft to fracture there is open to speculation, but I suspect it was a combination of metal fatigue caused by the passing of time (1978 model bike), and increased stress on the shaft from the high-speed cornering training session at DECA.

I was just starting to wonder how I would make my way home, with or without the bike, when I heard the sound of another motorcycle going down through the gears and stop. It was one of the other guys on the training course. I explained to him that without the locknut there was no way to secure the shaft and so I was going to walk back towards Shepparton in the vain hope of finding the locknut lying on the ground and if I didn’t find it, I’d just keep walking to stay the night in Shepparton.

My fellow RTA instructor suggested that I should first put the bike on its centre stand, which as I did, we both heard an audible ‘clunk’- it was the sound of the locknut with the end bit of the broken shaft still in it falling to the ground. It had been trapped on top of the centre stand. An absolute fluke that it hadn’t fallen out, but that fluke meant that rescue was now possible.

We had a close look at the shaft and removed the threaded bit of broken shaft from the locknut. There were only a few lands of thread left on the shaft, but we worked out that if we reversed the locknut, the rounded end had a bit better purchase on the shaft and there would be just enough thread to engage the shaft with the locknut. The whole swinging arm assembly was therefore literally hanging by a thread! We did the locknut up as tight as we could with a spanner and In case there were any further problems, my fellow RTA instructor kept me company until we reached Melbourne. Then, in what was a fairly typical display of camaraderie between motorcyclists, with a wave to each other we went our separate ways, him on his Honda 750 K1 and me on my SR.

I made it home safely and that night with beer in hand I counted my blessings that I had looked down when I did and that the locknut didn’t fall out until it was within hearing range.

MONTO MUSTER

WITH RAIN THROUGH THE WEEK PRIOR TO THIS YEAR’S MUSTER WE WERE A BIT WORRIED HOW THE WEEKEND WOULD GO. FOR THOSE THAT LEFT BRISBANE ON THE THURSDAY, THEY HAD SOME RAIN ON THE WAY AND THOSE DEPARTING ON THE FRIDAY HAD SOME RAIN TO THE OUTER LIMITS OF BRISBANE.

From here it was a good run to Gympie where the group paused for a fuel stop and a coffee. Soon they were on their way again through to Kilkivan and across the Tansey Road before joining the Burnett Hwy to the lunch stop at Gayndah. Here we met up with Malcolm Johnston and Aaron Williams while we

waited for Ken whose thirsty Kawasaki H2 750 required an in between fuel stop. Other than that it ran well all the way.

Arriving in Monto about 4pm, each rider set off to their various accommodation points before we all met up at the Albert Hotel for our Friday

evening welcome dinner. Saturday morning saw all the bikes gather in Monto’s main street centre parking area for a display at 8am, with members and local residents invited to take part in a People’s Choice show judging.

At 10am the riders took part

Words & Photos by John McNair

in a ride to Kalpower, which is an old railway town about 40 kilometers north east of Monto. Upon arrival we gathered alongside the local hall with its train mural for a group photo before heading back towards Monto with a stop at the Mungungo Hotel for lunch.

This old hotel welcomes motorcyclists and has various motorcycle memorabilia in side. From here we rode back into Monto and then out through the Cania Gorge to Cania Dam before returning to Monto. This was a very enjoyable ride with the afternoon sun on the cliff faces above.

Saturday night dinner was attended by around sixty people with the undercover beer garden area reserved each night. It was perfect for a fun filled night which along with the great meals also

included some trivia questions and door prizes.

The winner of the bike show was announced and this was Mark Sweeney from the Toowoomba area on his immaculate Yamaha TRX850. This was one of many immaculate bikes there for the weekend. We must say a big thank you to

our sponsors for the weekend with Precision Powder Coating donating $250 for the weekend. Other sponsors included Bullet Yamaha in Mackay, Team Moto on the Sunshine Coast, VJMC Australia and several others.

Sunday morning gave us the choice of two rides with the main ride to Mount Perry along one of the Burnett Shire’s best motorcycle roads. A few of us decided to check out the ride to Wiruma Dam which is south west of Monto near Abercorn. This was an enjoyable ride with the return ride being a very nice back road from Abercorn to Monto. About 130 kilometers round trip.

Back at the Albert Hotel, the publican had the MotoGP on for us, so all our members that were still in town converged on the bar. Our numbers were greatly reduced for the Sunday night Stragglers Dinner but a good night was had. Monday seen us heading for home with Mal. Had a stop for lunch in Murgon and a stop in at Bejolke Peterson Dam before heading back to Brisbane.

Members attending came from the Gold Coast to Mackay and places in between plus Toowoomba. I should make special mention of Sydney member John Ingle who drove all the way up from Sydney with his Yamaha 250 on the trailer. Well done John. Great to catch up with you. It was a great weekend and I would like to say a big thank you to Coordinator Phil and all those involved in the organization of the 2022 Monto Muster.

Experience level requirement

• Basic lathe operating skill to turn up the mould

• Zero experience with silicon and making plastic/rubber/silicon parts is apparently ok.

The Mould

I used solid bar aluminium 50mm diameter turned up in a lathe for the inner part and aluminium pipe 60 x 5mm for the outer mould. The outside diameter of the part was thus set by the inside diameter of this pipe (close enough to give it a try I thought).

The outer mould would have been better made from pipe 60 x 10mm to allow the exact outside dimension of the gasket to be made, however this was more expensive to buy so I thought I would attempt the cheaper option first and see how the process workout out.

Part No# 14771-11040 (Muffler Connector) Article by Derek Milne

I chose aluminium over steel as it would not rust in storage when kept in my shed and it is cheaper than brass. Possibly the mould could be made from nylon or similar bar, however I do not have much expertise turning nylon as so went with the aluminium.

Measuring the internal/external diameters of a soft flexible part was somewhat problematic. My first attempt at an internal mould was discarded before use other than as a tool to help with sizing of my second attempt.

Outside diameter 48mm (best estimate) 49.7mm 49.7

Length – total 28.5mm 30mm 30mm

Length – inner smaller ID 14mm 16mm 16mm

Length – inner larger ID 14mm 14mm 14mm

Inside diameter – muffler end 42mm 42mm

Inside diameter – exhaust end 39.5 39mm

Notes

Ok, but ID of exhaust end marginally too large. 2 parts made from this mould.

Make stepped inner mould long enough to hold in vice for mould separation purposes Mine was 100mm long.

Outer mould ring – make 5-10mm longer than total length of part Mine was 38mm long

The outside diameter of my part is larger than the sample due to cost of aluminium stock.

The total length of my part turned out 1.5mm longer than the sample. I initially thought it may be easier to pour if the inner mould part was a little longer. This was unnecessary as it turned out. I could have easily been reduced the length; however, it caused no issue with fitting, and as such I was happy to leave as is.

The Material

After much research and really finding nothing to help I chose:

Firm Addition Cure RTV-2 Silicon M4670 Hardness Shore 55A

I found 30g + 3g (Part A + Part B) was sufficient, with little waste when making a singular part.

The silicon is a beige colour but can be tinted orange if desired. This would have added to the cost and as the part is not really visible and I did not know if the part would even turn out I chose not to spend the extra.

I think it would be better to draw a vacuum on the silicon mix to remove air bubbles before use. I did not have anything to do this and as such I didn’t bother. A few bubbles came to the surface in the first ½ hour or so of setting. I popped these with a toothpick. The final resultant part did not show any signs of air bubbles and thus ruining the part so maybe drawing a vacuum is a bit over the top.

There was no evident shrinkage of this material upon setting.

Coat mould parts with graphite powder as a mould release.

A couple of dobs of hot melt glue secures the outer ring to the inner. This glue is easily removed when no longer needed.

Approx. 25g of silicon is required to make the part.

Mix slightly more than this as some silicon material will remain in the mixing container.

I borrowed the kitchen scales to weigh out the silicon for mixing, but although they had a 1g resolution the accuracy was not good enough.

A few prods with a stick just during pouring to help release any trapped air pockets.

Setting takes 24 hours.

Releasing the part from the mould can be problematic. In the end I chose to hold the inner mould piece in the vice and use a chain pipe wrench on the outer part. The twisting action that results released the parts without damage.

Note: the slit in the outer mould does not go all the way through and was part of an early attempt in trying to work out how to release the part from the mould pieces.

The part above is discoloured due to the graphite powder used for mould release. This can be cleaned somewhat, but I did not bother.

Conclusions

I am happy with the end result. The larger diameter part caused little problems in fitting, but being a bit retentive I would prefer to reduce the outer diameter to match the original.

Ideally, I would like to make at least two moulds to improve production speed and reduce waste. This would of course cost more in material so

The colour. Although I could add pigment to colour it the cost and lack of visibility of the part discourages me.

I am yet to determine its lifespan/durability.

Update: March 2022

I have supplied a couple of gaskets with positive feedback from the user and another person has manufactured the gaskets based on the guide above also with positive results

We would love to feature your bike in an upcoming issue.

All you need to do is provide some written info and some photos. We can tidy up the words if that’s not your thing.

Photos need to be at the larger size (around 1 meg or more ideally). Photos taken with an iPhone or similar are fine to use. Take a bit of time to get the lighting good, and have a decent background. The article could be about

• An event or ride

• A person

• A bike

• A Collection

• A restoration project (complete or ongoing)Technical info

• Anything that interests the members. Please email editor@vjmc.org.au with stories or if you want any more info on putting something together for the mag. In subject line put: VJMC + (your name and two word description)

MERCHANDISE ORDERING

This can now be done online through the VJMC website, making it much easier to select items, fill in form details and with automatic totalling. Each item picture can be clicked on for a larger, more detailed preview.

You will still need to make a separate payment through your bank account electronically.

For members, go to our website at – vjmc. org.au, and on the homepage, second section down “VJMC Australia merchandise orders now online”, is the link to the merchandise

online order form, Go directly to …

You still have the option to download the merchandise order form for ordering by EMAIL or to print it out for POSTING. These links are in the same section.

If new or existing financial members require login details for the VJMC website, you can find a Website Access Guide (for members only areas) on the homepage, second section down, last line, How to login - Website Access. Clicking on this link will present a PDF of steps to be taken to gain access to members only areas.

Any merchandise queries please contact Merchandise Officer: Peter Donnellan on 0408 839 805.

IF YOU ARE A VJMC MEMBER AND YOU WOULD LIKE TO PROMOTE YOUR BUSINESS ON THIS PAGE, PLEASE EMAIL YOUR DETAILS TO ADRIAN DIXON AT ADIXON@CONTECHENGINEERING.COM

Allen Sutton The Hydroblast Shop

3/ 41-43 Sinclair Rd, Dandenong, Vic 3175 0400 516 979 www.thehydroblastshop.com.au Superior restoration of automotive, motorcycle and industrial components. We can make those engine casings, barrels, heads, carbies and intricate parts look like new again. Let our experience be a part of your next restoration project. Visit our website for more detail.

Tri-Spark Electronic Ignition Systems

South Australia, export world wide sales@trispark.com.au | www.trispark.com.au 08 8371 1664

Specialises in ignition systems for classic bikes. Our reputation for supplying a top-quality product and technical support is unmatched. We also stock ignition coils, voltage regulators and accessories. We are happy to hear from members about their bike electrical requirements and answer their questions. Please visit our website and get in touch.

Alan Jansen Pals Automotive Services

11/42 New St, Ringwood 3134. Motorcycle & car RWC inspections in Melbourne’s Eastern suburbs by ‘Vintage Friendly’ inspectors. By appointment only. www.palsautos.com.au | alan@palsautos.com.au 03 9879 6044

Frank Van Den Broek

Garage Door & Gate Solutions

23 Cantebury Roar, Braeside Victoria 3195 9587 4000 www.garagedoorsolutions.com.au

Steve Gittings Printforme

03 5334 2605 | 0417 336 360 printforme@ncable.net.au

Design. Print. Finish. Offset and digital printing.

Eudlo Forest Retreat

23 Johnsons Road Eudlo, Queensland 4554 www.eudloforestretreat.com.au 0410 392 844 – Jules. Motorcycle friendly Bed & Breakfast in the Sunshine Coast Hinterland. Accommodation for up to four singles and two couples. Undercover bike parking provided and workshop facilities available. The local region offers some great riding and many points of interest. Please call Jules to confirm details & availability.

Richard Scoular Classic Bikes Direct 41A Jarrah Drive, Braeside. Victoria 3195 0400 222 040 | www.classicbikesdirect.com.au Let our world wide network be your advantage when buying a Classic to add to your collection, Nearly 40 years industry experience.

Tony and Catherine Fresh as Bread Cafe 76 Aberdeen Road, Macleod Victoria 3085 For VJMC members: your first coffee is complimentary, great quiet location off main roads, opposite park, with plenty of parking right in front of cafe. Good stop for group rides.

Alan Davis Abraham Lincoln Motel 343 Armidale Road. East Tamworth NSW 2340 02 6766 1233 | info@abrahamlincoln.com.au www.abrahamlincoln.com.au VJMC members can receive a 10% discount on their accommodation when they book direct with the motel, stating they are a current member of the VJMC.

Bonnie Doon Hotel 1738 Maroondah Hwy, Bonnie Doon. Approx 150km from Melb, our editor Tom Calderwood is the publican at this famous pub. Great meals and accommodation available. There is a variety of enjoyable routes to take on the way, and also while up here in the Gateway to Victoria’s High Country.

REGIONAL MEETS

ACT / SOUTHERN NSW

DEAKIN: 7:30 PM - 4th Wednesday of each month Canberra Deakin Football Club Grose St, Deakin ACT. Bill Dobie – 0414 957 215 Meeting.ACT@vjmc.org.au

NEW SOUTH WALES

LOWERHUNTER: 7:00 PM - 2nd Thursday of each month. Club Macquarie. 458 Lake Road, Argenton. NSW. Bill Keevers – 0438 646117 Meeting.LowerHunter@vjmc. org.au

MID HUNTER: 7:00 PM - 1st Tuesday of each even-numbered month. Greta Workers Club. Cnr New England Hwy & West St, Greta. NSW.

Allan Kensitt – 0405 492700 Meeting.MidHunter@vjmc.org. au

SYDNEY: 7:00 PM - 2nd Wednesday of each month. Prospect Hotel. Great Western Highway, Prospect. NSW. Paul Johnson - 0481 142 175 Meeting.Sydney@vjmc.org.au

Paul Lenehan – 0408 825126 Meeting.Sydney1@vjmc.org.au

TAMWORTH: 6.30 PMlast Thursday of each month. Tamworth City Bowling Club. ANZAC Park. Brisbane St, Tamworth. NSW.

Paul Rowling – 0411 696 852 Meeting.Tamworth@vjmc.org.au

Please contact the VJMC Web Content Manager at WebContent@ vjmc.org.au to have information on this page added, corrected, deleted or updated.

QUEENSLAND

S.E. QUEENSLAND:7:00 PM - 2nd Tuesday of each month. Belmont Tavern. Cnr Burstall Ave & Belmont Rd, Belmont. Qld. John McNair - 0402 939 132 Meeting.Brisbane@vjmc.org.au

SOUTH AUSTRALIA

ADELAIDE: 6:30 PM - last Thursday of each month (except December) at the Walkers Arms Hotel, 36 North East Road, Walkerville. Upper Level, Room 1 from 6.30 pm. (Near the ABC Building). A la Carte menu. Graeme Cullingford Meeting.Adelaide@vjmc.org.au

VICTORIA

CENTRAL VICTORIA: 10:30 AM - every Sunday morning. Rocklea Cafe. Bendigo Homemaker Centre, Kangaroo Flat VIC 3555. Rodney Gilbert –0439 327 283 or Meeting.CentralVictoria@vjmc. org.au

GOULBURN MURRAY: 10:00 AM - 1st Sunday of each month. Kyabram. 135 Allan St,Kyabram. Vic.

Garry Lennie – 0459 233020 Meeting.GoulburnMurray@vjmc. org.au

MELBOURNE: 7:00 PMlast Tuesday of each month. Grandview Hotel. Cnr Station Street & Heidelberg Rd, Fairfield. Vic. No contact

MORNINGTON PENINSULA: 10:00 AM2nd Sunday of each month. Balnarring Beach General Store. 181 Balnarring Beach Rd, Balnarring Beach. Vic.

Dave Parker – 0416 154 056 Meeting.MorningtonPeninsula @vjmc.org.au

WEST GIPPSLAND: 10:00 AM - last Sunday each Month. Prior to ride at 11:00 AM. East Bound Caltex Service & Station. Princess Hwy, Longwarry North. Vic.

Mick Gunn – 0439 537 901 Meeting.WestGippsland@vjmc. org.au

WESTERN VICTORIA: 9:30 AM the last Sunday of month for a ride (weather permitting) at 10:30 AM Krooze In Cafe, Boak Ave, Ballarat. Vic Vacant Meeting.WesternVictoria@vjmc. org.au

HISTORIC REGISTRATION

The objective of the VJMC is to foster the preservation, restoration, riding and enjoyment of vintage Japanese motorcycles. VJMC members may apply for historic registration of their vintage vehicles within their own state or territory. Members must maintain their financial membership of the VJMC, to ensure compliance with the historic registration requirements of the various state historic schemes.

The requirements of the historic registration schemes vary from state to state regarding standard, modified or customised historic vehicles. These requirements can be located by using the links to the various state schemes below.

AUSTRALIAN CAPITAL TERRITORY:

www.accesscanberra.act.gov.au/s/article/ veteran-vintage-and-historic-motor-vehicleregistration-tab-overview

Email: ClubRegistration.ACT@vjmc.org.au

NEW SOUTH WALES:

A 60-day logbook scheme was introduced in NSW in 2019. A numbered logbook will be issued when applying for or renewing historic registration and must be completed prior to each ride. www.nsw.gov.au/topics/vehicle-registration/ how-to/historic-vehicles Club Registration (Sydney) ClubRegistration.Sydney@vjmc.org.au Club Registration(other): ClubRegistration.NSW@vjmc.org.au

NORTHERN TERRITORY:

www.nt.gov.au/driving/rego/getting-an-ntregistration/motor-club-vehicles/apply-forclub-vehicle-registration

Email: ClubRegistration.NT@vjmc.org.au

QUEENSLAND:

www.qld.gov.au/transport/registration/fees/ concession/special-interest/eligible Email: ClubRegistration.Qld@vjmc.org.au

SOUTH AUSTRALIA:

www.sa.gov.au/topics/driving-and-transport/ registration/conditional-registration/historicleft-hand-drive-and-street-rod-vehicles

Email: ClubRegistration.SA@vjmc.org.au

TASMANIA:

www.transport.tas.gov.au/registration/options/ special_interest_vehicle_registration

Email: ClubRegistration.Tas@vjmc.org.au

VICTORIA:

www.vicroads.vic.gov.au/registration/limiteduse-permits/club-permit-scheme

Email: ClubRegistration.Vic@vjmc.org.au

WEST AUSTRALIA:

www.transport.wa.gov.au/licensing/ concessions.asp

Email: ClubRegistration.WA@vjmc.org.au

AREA REPRESENTATIVES

VJMC Area Representatives are available to assist with any aspect of the VJMC they can but particularly club membership activities local to them. If they are unable to assist you directly, they will do their best to direct your

ACT / SOUTHERN NSW

Canberra

Bill Dobie – 0414 957 215 Canberra@vjmc.org.au

NEW SOUTH WALES

Armidale

Greg Inglis – 0408 669 986 Armidale@vjmc.org.au

Broken Hill

Samuel Muscat – 0412 208 898 BrokenHill@vjmc.org.au

Central Coast

Andrew Johnson – 0417 654 461 CentralCoast@vjmc.org.au

Far North Coast Rob Andrews FarNorthCoast@vjmc.org.au

Illawarra and the Southern Highlands

Mick Donaher - 0418 486 473 Illawarra@vjmc.org.au

LowerHunter

Bill Keevers – 0438 646 117 LowerHunter@vjmc.org.au

Mid Hunter

Allan Kensitt – 0405 492 700 MidHunter@vjmc.org.au

Mid North Coast Ray Hall MidNorthCoast@vjmc.org.au

enquiry to the best available person or resource to resolve it. For more information on becoming a VJMC Area Representative contact the Area Representative Coordinator at AreaReps@vjmc.org.au. Please put VJMC AREA REPS in the subject line.

Murray-Riverina

Rex Beard – 0407 233 312 MurrayRiverina@vjmc.org.au

North West NSW

Garry Hennessy – 0418 496 538 NWNSW@vjmc.org.au

Orange

Peter Ezzy – 0427 663 246 Orange@vjmc.org.au

Sydney

David Bernardi – 0431 661 769 Sydney@vjmc.org.au

Sydney Inner

Stephen O’Farrell – 0434 066 966 SydneyInner@vjmc.org.au

Sydney South & West Allan Dykstra – 0418 866 917 SydneySW@vjmc.org.au

Tamworth: Paul Rowling – 0411 696 852 Tamworth@vjmc.org.au

Northern Territory

Darwin: vacant Darwin@vjmc.org.au

Queensland

Gold Coast

Kylie Irwin

GoldCoast@vjmc.org.au

Mackay

Peter & Helen Douglas – 0408 186 439 Mackay@vjmc.org.au

North Queensland

Anton Frank - 0407 391 948 NorthQld@vjmc.org.au

S.E. Queensland

Eric Leah SEQueensland@vjmc.org.au

Sunshine Coast

Mark Clark - 0488 980 969 SunshineCoast@vjmc.org.au

South Australia

Adelaide

Graeme Cullingford – 0475 515 470 Adelaide@vjmc.org.au

Tasmania

North West

Tony Mahoney – 0438 385 176 NWTasmania@vjmc.org.au

Northern

Malcolm Innes-Wayling – 0419 598 875 NorthTasmania@vjmc.org.au

Southern

Baz Fitzgerald – 0487 746 020 SouthTasmania@vjmc.org.au

South Central Tas.

Matt Percival – 03 6248 7474 SCTasmania@vjmc.org.au

Victoria

Central Victoria

Rodney Gilbert – 0429 327 283 CentralVictoria@vjmc.org.au

East Gippsland

Vacant

EastGippsland@vjmc.org.au

Geelong Vacant Geelong@vjmc.org.au

Kyabram

Garry Lennie – 0428 542 479 Kyabram@vjmc.org.au

Melbourne

Phil Scorah – 0412 162 863 Melbourne@vjmc.org.au

Mornington Peninsula

David Parker – 0416 154 056 MorningtonPeninsula@vjmc.org.au

N.E. Victoria Ian Brightmore – 0419 888 020 NEVictoria@vjmc.org.au

N.W. Victoria Robert Traeger – 0418 145 393 NWVictoria@vjmc.org.au

West Gippsland

Michael Gunn – 0439 537 901 WestGippsland@vjmc.org.au

Western Victoria

Vacant

WesternVictoria@vjmc.org.au

Western Australia

Perth and W.A. David Williams – 0418 687 855 Perth@vjmc.org.au