Hi, They were never sold in the UK strangely enough, we only got the XBR. All sizes, 250, 400, and 500 are grey imports to the UK. I don't know if they do a black colour, but the green is often mistaken for black as it is so dark. I've got an 1985 Japanese import GB500tt and they are really nice bikes.
Yeah, the XBRs came in black and red I think. The XBR and GB frames and engines are the same, the GB has the wire wheels and Brit rip off styling, plus I think the rake might be different. The XBRs make a lovely base for a cafe racer as well. They really are just fun bikes to ride. I've had mine for 20 years, I've done lots of work to it but nothing substantial, still on the original paint, they have quality components, DID alloy rims, lovely little alloy indicators etc..
Ride out photos from last year Sywell Wings and Wheels two day affair with static bikes, cars, trucks, owners clubs of all sorts and runway demo? rides of bikes and cars plus flyovers of wing walking and stunt flying and the odd helicopter arrival as the airfield was still operational for them.
Not quite the same as being at a bike & car show in person, @BATEBY45, but a nice stand-in during these COVID times! Thanks for sharing these fun photos.
Nice set of photographs Bateby45. Some really nice bikes, but the model Bedford CA Dormobile is something special.
Sywell is a good event and one I haven’t been to for a few years. Must try to check it out again soon.
This is a photo of my best friend, Dennis and his beloved ’74, 650 Bonnie. He kept her in top form mechanically and cosmetically. His nick name in our little group was “Vert,” for vertical twin, of course. He passed suddenly, peacefully, in his sleep, no warning, nine years ago this April. If he knew he had a problem, he never mentioned it. He’d ride in that denim jacket, no gloves, in forty degree weather while the rest of us were bundled up like Eskimos. He was a heavy equipment operator and I guess he was just used to being out in the cold. He was the best human being I have ever known, the type that would pull over to help a stranded stranger. Best, wry, sense of humor ever. Anyhow, I have worn a little British Flag on my denim ever since. I think he’d be pleased with my choice of a Speedmaster.
What a superior post, @Fork Lock. Love his nickname and you giving a subtle nod to him with a small flag. In another thread @Pegscraper made a great post with a funny-in-hindsight story about a riding buddy, Bryan, who'd passed in 2017. Thank goodness for great friends and good memories.
A car in front of us stopped suddenly one time. My Victory stopped with plenty of room to spare. He almost plowed into the car. Me: "300mm Brembo Brakes" Dennis: "I have 401k brakes." Me: "What the hell are 401k brakes?" Dennis: "You have to plan ahead."
Pre Booking [email protected] Don't know how long this offer will be available, I booked mine a month or two ago.
Covid? Minor irritation when you have views like this within a 9 mile cycle (mostly uphill!) of your house! Views over Morecambe Bay and up towards Coniston.
