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How to fit a Helicoil | Step-by-step guide
If you tighten a bolt too far or too often, it will pull part of the thread out from what you are tightening it into. A Helicoil insert is a way of replacing that thread – and it’s really quite easy.
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May 10, 2023
Two-Legged Trauma - Hutch's Workshop
A main stand gives up the ghost, leaving Hutch no choice but to get the heavy tools out.
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February 17, 2023
Intellectual Spannering - Hutch's Workshop
Sometimes it isn’t having the right tools, but a logical mind working through the possibilities
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January 31, 2023
Royal Enfield Clipper: Worker’s playtime
NOT ALL MOTORCYCLES are glamorous.
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December 20, 2021
Workshop Essentials: Parts Lists
Even if you only just service and fettle your classic motorcycle, you will, at some point, require a part number for something.
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November 26, 2021
WATCH: James Whitham’s Whithamcisms
Bertie Simmonds hosts an evening with James Whitham, professional motorbike racer and chat about his upbringing, his eccentric father and professional career.
Workshop - Sam Hewitt
July 11, 2019
CLASSIC LOOK: ALLSPEED AHEAD
A classic name in two-stroke expansion chamber circles is back in business ALLSPEED EXHAUSTS are a brand that any two-stroke junkie will be well aware of. For many they were the choice of a generation
Workshop - Mike Cowton
April 3, 2019
Q&A: Honda MTX200 & 2004 Triumph Bonneville/Thruxton
Mark Haycock and Steve Cooper are here to answer all of you woes! 
Workshop - Sam Hewitt
October 2, 2018
Q&A: Kawasaki GPz and Yamaha XS Heritage
Mark Haycock and Steve Cooper are here to answer all of your woes.
Workshop - Sam Hewitt
September 17, 2018
Q&A: Kawasaki ZXR and Suzuki RV90
Our very own wizened sages, Messrs Mark Haycock and Steve Cooper are here to answer all of your woes, be they mechanical or spiritual.
Workshop - Sam Hewitt
September 17, 2018
Q&A: Carb kit problem with my Suzuki GS750
Our experts Mark Haycock and Steve Cooper are back with all the answers to your questions! 
Workshop - Sam Hewitt
August 24, 2018
Q&A: Wiring problem in my Honda CB550 K3
Our experts Mark Haycock and Steve Cooper are back with all the answers to your questions!
Workshop - Sam Hewitt
August 24, 2018
Mark’s General Tips
Mark Haycock is back with answers to all of your burning questions, but here are some of his general tips!
Workshop - Bertie Simmonds
August 24, 2018
Q&A: I’ve left the fork slider misshapen on my Honda CBR600F
Our experts at CMM are back with all the answers to your questions!
Workshop - Bertie Simmonds
August 20, 2018
Q&A: Your tips – CB72 Rockers are rolling!
We not only love to hear your questions, but we want to hear your own tips and hints too!
Workshop - Bertie Simmonds
August 18, 2018
Q&A: Socket Universal Joint
Our expert at CMM Steve Cooper gives his Five Minute Fix! 
Workshop - Bertie Simmonds
August 15, 2018
Q&A: Fuel for thought?
Our CMM expert Steve Cooper answers YOUR questions!
Workshop - Bertie Simmonds
April 26, 2017
Q&A: Suzuki T500 airbox inlet boot
Our CMM expert Steve Cooper answers YOUR questions!
Workshop - Bertie Simmonds
April 26, 2017
Q&A: Fitting forks
Our experts at CMM are back with all the answers to your questions! Fill in the form at the bottom of the page to ask your burning questions!
Workshop - Bertie Simmonds
April 26, 2017
2002 Suzuki TS50X
Q: I’m a reader of Classic Motorcycle Magazine  and a massive fan of motorbikes. I’ve just turned 16 and got my first bike – a Suzuki TS50X and want more power. I have looked for all the
Workshop - Bertie Simmonds
April 26, 2017
1998 Ducati 600SS
Q: I’ve got a problem. After a run the bike is going okay, but while parked in the garage for a few days petrol leaked out through the breather pipe on to the floor. It
Workshop - Bertie Simmonds
April 26, 2017
1981 Suzuki GSX750
Q: I discovered your mag last year and a have been a reader ever since. I’m hoping, with all your years of accumulated experience, you may be able to help. CMM has inspired me to
Workshop - Bertie Simmonds
April 26, 2017
Five minute fix – Greasing points
If your bike has grease nipples use them; if it doesn’t, investigate if they can be retro-fitted. Pivot points on suspension systems need a regular supply of fresh, clean grease. Decades of dust, seasons of
Workshop - Bertie Simmonds
April 26, 2017
General tips from Mark
Now and then you will find that a nut or bolt simply will not undo. You have tried everything: heat, penetrating oil and even an impact wrench but still the fastener remains resolutely tight. There
Workshop - Bertie Simmonds
April 26, 2017
1965 Honda CB72
Q: I am having a bit of trouble with my Honda CB72, 1965 model, and I wonder if you can help. Apart from all the other work I have done for my restoration, I have
Workshop - Bertie Simmonds
April 26, 2017
Suzuki VL800 Volusia
Q: My cruiser has recently developed an intermittent engine rattle, on tick-over the engine is okay, it seems to occur as I ride in top gear about 40-50mph, and as I lightly accelerate through the
Workshop - Bertie Simmonds
April 26, 2017
Five minute fix – Throttle tubes
Little spoils a bike like a graunching throttle. Cables are obvious and easy to lubricate but throttle tubes regularly get ignored. Whether it’s the conventional barrel type or early Japanese straight pull/scroll type the same
Workshop - Bertie Simmonds
April 26, 2017
1976 Suzuki GT550
Q: The headlamp bowl was rusty and my mate gave me a new chrome one. Foolisly, I accepted and removed the headlamp in order to replace it. As you may know, in the shell there
Workshop - Bertie Simmonds
April 26, 2017
Triumph Valve issues
Q: I have two valves out of a classic motorcycle (a Triumph) one and the other are the same size in all respects. The parts book gives a different parts numbers for each valve (inlet
Workshop - Bertie Simmonds
April 25, 2017
Yamaha DT400B
Q:  I’m getting desperate here on the garage floor with my DT400B twin shock. Over the last two years since I bought it, I’ve tried everything I can think of to stop a nasty chugging
Workshop - Bertie Simmonds
April 25, 2017
Five minute fix – Brake Linings
Never, ever, take a brake shoe lining for granted. Almost without exception Japanese shoes are fixed to their alloy carriers by adhesive alone; you rarely see rivets used. Eventually dampness, heat and time can and
Workshop - Bertie Simmonds
April 25, 2017
Your tips – Aqua Blasting
Aqua blasting is all the rage at the moment. I’ve been doing it for years at home using a cheap B&Q pressure washer (£25) and a sandblaster pick up lance (eBay £9.99). I used to
Workshop - Bertie Simmonds
April 25, 2017
Mark’s rapid fire tips
How do you determine the correct angle for the handlebar controls? Sit on the bike, extend your fingers in line with your arms and lower your hands on to the grips. The levers should be
Workshop - Bertie Simmonds
April 25, 2017
1986 Suzuki GSX-R750G
Q: I recently purchased a 1986 GSX R750G. It is a Jap import, but I have read in your magazine that these bike are restricted to 75bhp and it certainly does not feel as quick
Workshop - Bertie Simmonds
April 25, 2017
1998 Suzuki GSX-R1100WT
Q: I am trying to find an aftermarket a 4-into-1 complete exhaust system for my 1100WT with no success. Could you tell me if any other models will bolt straight on, maybe a 1200 Bandit
Workshop - Bertie Simmonds
April 25, 2017
Yamaha RD350LC YPVS 31K
Q: Do you know anyone who can check or test CDI units? And what are the obvious symptoms if a CDI unit is faulty? A: The usual symptom for a faulty CDI unit is no
Workshop - Bertie Simmonds
April 25, 2017
Cagiva River
Q: Can anyone help me? Do you know what other starter motor will fit this machine as I cannot get one and I’ve tried everywhere. A: This is a Mitsuba motor, identified as 36496 on
Workshop - Bertie Simmonds
April 25, 2017
Suzuki Burgman 650AN
Q: With a cold engine it doesn’t respond to quick throttle openings. There is a bit of a difference once the engine is warm-though from about 55mph upwards, when the throttle is open to accelerate,
Workshop - Bertie Simmonds
April 25, 2017
Five minute fix – Wheel spindles
Whenever you replace a wheel spindle make sure it’s greased. As Japanese bikes rarely received lubrication to their axles when new they have a real propensity to corrosion weld themselves to the inner bearing race.
Workshop - Bertie Simmonds
April 25, 2017
Forks
Q: Just to say how much I enjoyed the ‘Why forks fail’, article, but surely the primary cause of forks ending up needing repair work is, in my experience, accidental damage. So, the difficult and
Workshop - Bertie Simmonds
April 25, 2017
Mark’s Top tips – Engines
1 When separating major engine components, a tap with a soft hammer helps to release the bond between them. If that does not work, don’t automatically use a bigger hammer: you have undone all the
Workshop - Bertie Simmonds
April 25, 2017
1980 Kawasaki Z7650/750
Q: Hello, I’d appreciate your opinion on the need for coil replacement on my Z650 F1. I’ve recently fitted a Z750E1 engine into my Z650 frame, The bike is running fine but I’m wondering if
Workshop - Bertie Simmonds
April 25, 2017
2012 Yamaha Raider
Q: I ran across CMM in a forum and like a parent with a poorly child I turn to you in hopes of saving my nearly-new bike. Don’t ignore me just as it’s ‘new’. I
Workshop - Bertie Simmonds
April 25, 2017
Honda GL1100
Q: Hi, I am rebuilding a GL1100 GoldWing it has been stood since 1989 and it is fitted with a Pantera fairing, which I would like to keep on for the period look. Would you
Workshop - Bertie Simmonds
April 25, 2017
Five minute fix – Cleaning
Go to check/replace your front sprocket, grease the clutch push rod, inspect generator wiring etc. and you’re normally faced with something that looks like valve grinding paste lovingly mixed with a cow pat. And that’s
Workshop - Bertie Simmonds
April 25, 2017
Your tip – Engine in the frame
Having owned my RD400F for 12 years I decided it was time to restore the old girl. After spending a lot of time restoring the parts, one area for real concern was to place the
Workshop - Jayne Clements
April 25, 2017
Mark’s Top Three Tips – Maintenance
1 Locking washers were used in the past to stop nuts and bolts from coming undone, but the modern approach is to use a chemical solution: threadlocker. Do be aware of a few things though.
Workshop - Jayne Clements
April 25, 2017
1977 Yamaha RD400
Q: I can’t seem to get electric power to my RD. When I turn the key I get no red or green light on the dash. This started after I hooked a charger to the
Workshop - Jayne Clements
April 25, 2017
1995 BMW K1100LT
Q: Having followed the manual (or so I thought) to adjust the rear brake on my BMW K1100LT I was left on a dual carriageway with a seized rear brake. At first I felt it
Workshop - Jayne Clements
April 25, 2017
Five Minute Fix – fragile fixings
Words/Pictures by Steve Cooper Once in a while there’s a need to tight a nut or bolt on something that’s small, fragile or mounted on a surface that’s easily damaged. If you’re not careful the
Workshop - Dan Sharp
October 19, 2016
Your Tips – TY250 yellowing tank
In an earlier edition of Q&A Lee was asking how to restore the yellowing plastic of the petrol tank on his TY250. I had a similar issue with the expansion tank on my CX500 restoration.
Workshop - Dan Sharp
October 19, 2016
Kawasaki W650 Special racing exhaust
Q: I have installed a racing exhaust on my W650, which is pretty much a set of empty pipes/silencers, but did not re-jet (I wasn’t interested in the supposedly four extra bhp it was said
Workshop - Dan Sharp
October 19, 2016
1984 Kawasaki ZX750 GPz A12 torque settings
Q: Hello! My son is living in the USA and he is in the middle of fixing up his 1984 ZX750 GPz  A12 American spec. He wants to know the torque setting for the bolts holding
Workshop - Dan Sharp
October 19, 2016
Five Minute Fix – remove paint from threads
Words/Pictures by Steve Cooper We’ve all been there; the painter or powdercoater forget to mask a thread. Taps and dies are good on smaller threads but what about larger ones? What if you’ve already fitted
Workshop - Dan Sharp
October 19, 2016
Suzuki GS850G crash damage
Q: My bike was involved in a crash and came down on the right hand (timing cover) side. All the electronic ignition pick-ups have been replaced by a previous owner with parts from a GS1000. I
Workshop - Dan Sharp
October 19, 2016
Your Tips – paint your wagon
In the October 2015 edition of CMM a chap called Rob Neal wrote about high-temperature paint for his CX500 well, I have a similar vintage CBX1000 and have used VHT silver spray paint to good
Workshop - Dan Sharp
October 19, 2016
Five Minute Fix – finding small parts
Words/Pictures by Steve Cooper Dropping a fixing into a bike is a pain with ages spent crawling around to no avail. Rather than waste time stand back, take a deep breath and then put something
Workshop - Dan Sharp
October 19, 2016
Advice on nuts and bolts
Q: Can you tell me how to tell if a nut or bolt is usable or not.  I think I over-torqued a bolt/acorn nut combination due to using a cheap torque wrench which didn’t click.
Workshop - Dan Sharp
October 19, 2016
Suzuki RV90 weak lights
Q: My new bike is a Suzuki RV90 running 6v magneto electrics. Needless to say the lights are feeble, the stop lamp glows dismally and indicators don’t. Apart from making sure all connectors and earth
Workshop - Dan Sharp
October 19, 2016
Five Minute Fix – disc valve covers
Words/Picture by Steve Cooper Many 60s, 70s and 80s strokers run disc-valve induction systems with the carburettor sitting at the end of the crank. With this type of intake system it’s vital that the chamber
Workshop - Dan Sharp
October 19, 2016
1981 Yamaha TR1 popping exhaust
Q: Hi, great article in a recent mag on the TR1. I own a 1981 model which I rebuilt from a basket case. It’s a lovely bike and as John Nutting says the torque is
Workshop - Dan Sharp
October 19, 2016
1984 Yamaha TY250 yellowed tank
Q: Having recently acquired a 1984 TY250 trials for restoration but I find myself with a plastic fuel tank that has a nice yellowy tinge to it. Is there any way of returning this it
Workshop - Dan Sharp
October 19, 2016
Moto Morini Corsarino
Q: I’m a long-time reader of your excellent mag and I also suffer from petrol addiction! I have a Moto Morini Corsarino 50cc four-stroke that has started to develop a running issue. After a couple
Workshop - Dan Sharp
October 19, 2016
1979 Suzuki GS850G fuel meter wiring
Q: I have recently got my 1979 Suzuki GS850G fuel meter to work but the wiring is incorrect. I cannot as yet find the live feed from the meter to the tank gauge (due to
Workshop - Dan Sharp
October 19, 2016
Chain tension and sidestands
Q: In a world of no centrestands do you measure chain tension on the sidestand when travelling? Anon A: The obvious answer here is that if the bike was sold when new with only a
Workshop - Dan Sharp
October 19, 2016
1989 Honda CBR1000F-K scuffed cover
Q: I have a 1989 Honda CBR1000F-K and its looks are spoiled by a scuffed round right-hand engine cover. It appears not to have a part number that I can find anywhere, even my Haynes
Workshop - Dan Sharp
October 19, 2016
Video: Nostalgia Scramble 2010
Here’s a memory from Nostalgia scramble 2010, CDB will be up at the 2016 Nostalgia come say hi to us and claim your CDB toolbox magnet.
Workshop - Nigel Devereux
August 3, 2016
Special Tool Trickery
Neil Cairns didn't have the correct special tool to hand when he replaced the fork seals on his AJS single. So he... improvised...
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August 31, 2015
Ariel Square Four Alternator Conversion
Bennet Longman was so frustrated by the electrical shortcomings of his Ariel Square Four that he developed his own alternator conversion. So now he can ride at night with excellent illumination, without having to rev the engine senseless...
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August 31, 2015
BSA Gold Star Brake Conversion
One front drum brake not good enough for you? DBD Brian grafted two BSA 8” front drums together to improve the braking on his Gold Star. Here's how he did it...
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August 31, 2015
Carb Balancing with Vacuum Gauges
Transform your juddering and shuddering classic bike into a smooth performer. Always a sucker for a workshop gadget, Martin Gelder presents a balanced approach to carburettor set-up using vacuum dial gauges...
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August 31, 2015
Classic Saddle Repairs
Dave Wooding's saddle split and he didn't want to pay top dollar for an inferior replacement. The solution was a leather saddle cover for less than a fiver...
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August 31, 2015
Tyre Wear
When we observed in RealClassic magazine that two similar classic bikes were using their tyres very differently, and wondered what it could mean, RC readers provided all kinds of answers...
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August 31, 2015
Ignition Timing
Karl Bentley investigates a misfire on his Yamaha XS650, and discovers that it's all in the timing...
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August 31, 2015
Ethanol Update
The first fuel additives are coming onto the market to combat the effects of ethanol in petrol. As yet, they're unproven, but there are some other things you can do if your old bike is suffering from the ethanol effect...
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August 31, 2015
Eyes Right: Expert Advice
All roads users need clear vision to drive or ride safely. Motorcyclists have to cope with visors and goggles, and classic riders frequently suffer from deteriorating vision, too. Paul Miles, RC's resident professional eye expert, guides us through the available options - starting with getting the most from your eye test...
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August 31, 2015
Eyes Right: Expert Advice - Part 2
...
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August 31, 2015
Eyes Right: Expert Advice - Part 3
All roads users need clear vision to drive or ride safely. Classic riders frequently suffer from deteriorating vision, too. Paul Miles, RC's resident professional eye expert, continues his explanation and considers lenses, goggles and visors...
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August 31, 2015
Eyes Right: Expert Advice - Part 4
All roads users need clear vision to drive or ride safely. Motorcyclists have to cope with visors and goggles, and classic riders frequently suffer from deteriorating vision, too. Paul Miles, RC's resident professional eye expert, finishes by looking at contact lenses and going under the knife...
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August 31, 2015
Classic Techniques: Amal Premier Carb
Paul Jennings had been perfectly happy with the Mikuni carb fitted to his BSA B44. So he had some misgivings about swapping to a brand new Amal Concentric. Here's what he discovered...
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August 31, 2015
Inspection Pit
If you can't elevate your classic bike to get at its underside then Andy Bone has a suggestion: borrow a trick from the classic car crowd. Better than laying on the ground, any day!
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August 31, 2015
Pazon Electronic Ignition for Laverda 750
Stu Thomson wanted to improve the low-rev running on his Laverda 750 twin. So here's how he fitted a modern electronic ignition unit to it...
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August 31, 2015
Magnetos
The Power Behind The Bang Behind The Clutch Behind The Rear Tyre… Dave Minton explains about sparks...
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August 31, 2015
Moto Morini 350 Cambelt Change
Changing the cambelt is probably the most difficult part of servicing one of Morini's modular v-twins. Paul Compton, Paul Morgan-Knight, Mark Bailey and Martin Gelder show how it's done using high definition shed-o-vision video and greasy smudge photography...
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August 31, 2015
MZ ETZ 250 Tuning
Derek Pickard looks at the stock MZ250 carb situation, tries the alternatives, finds what works and gives the details of how to make your ETZ run super sweet...
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August 31, 2015
Tony Pearson's Approach
How would you remove the carbon from an Eastern Bloc two-stroke exhaust? Two RealClassic readers explain how they tackle the task...
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August 31, 2015
Norton Oils, Fuels and Other Liquids
Many classic bike specialists run a technical helpline, and they're often asked exactly the same question. So we investigated: what's the most common technical question asked about Norton Commandos…?
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August 31, 2015
Techniques: The Oil Truth
There are probably more myths and misconceptions about oil and lubrication than any other subject in motorcycling. Gerry Bristow attempts to set straight some of the errors that masquerade as facts...
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August 31, 2015
Petrol Tank Cleaning and De-Rusting
Les Howard recommends a four stage process for stripping, cleaning, de-rusting and drying the petrol tank on your classic motorcycle. Appropriate clothing should be worn...
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August 31, 2015
Petrol Tank Rust Removal
Always on the lookout for quick and cost-effective remedies, Derek Pickard details a smart way to rid a petrol tank of filter-clogging rust...
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August 31, 2015
On page one:
The process of getting the paperwork in place to register a pre-1973 motorcycle appears to be pretty intimidating. Actually, says Stu Thomson, it's quite straightforward. Here's his handy guide...
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August 31, 2015
Dynamo Voltage Regulator
What exactly is a DVR, and why do classic bikes need them? Mike Hutchings explains why he developed a new voltage regulator to suit his BSA A10...
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August 31, 2015
Techniques: Using a Dynabolt to Remove a Blind Bush
Philip Packham shows us how to use an anchor bolt designed for construction to remove a worn bush from a blind hole. Norton Commando kickstart shaft, anyone?
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August 31, 2015
Stretch and Relax: Personal Maintenance for Real Classic Riders
Aching elbows, creaking knees and a dodgy back? Neck stiff and wrists giving you gyp after a long ride? A bit of careful stretching can make all the difference, so we got registered osteopath Eileen Fox to bend us into shape...
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August 31, 2015
Suspension and Handling
Spring is here, and obsessive suspension tinkerer Martin Gelder's enthusiasm is undamped. Rebounding from a succession of old bikes with interesting steering, he weaves his way through a list of suggestions to help get the most out of a bike's handling...
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August 31, 2015
Tank Badge Repair
A damaged mounting can mean the end of an original component's useful life. Alan Goff didn't want to throw away the tank badge for his Triumph T90, so set about fixing it...
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August 31, 2015
Petrol Tank Cleaning and Sealing
The sticky business of cleaning and re-sealing fuel tanks can be tricky to get right first time, especially as there are so many cleaners and sealants now on the market. Ian Potter of Tank Care Products shares some of his expertise with us...
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August 31, 2015
Crankshaft Removal
Classic bikes can create all sorts of problems, especially the more unusual models. Phil Speakman has been puzzling over how to extract a seized crank on his Adler Favorit...
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August 31, 2015
Pukka Paint For Chassis Parts
If you're restoring a classic bike at home, then you'll inevitably need to paint some components. Sending everything off to the professionals can be costly, so Laurie Packer investigates a new DIY option...
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August 31, 2015
MZ Supa 5 Brake Modification
Malcolm Thomason loves his MZ, but its going was definitely better than its stopping. He looked at the front brake with an engineer's eye...
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August 31, 2015
Shock Absorber Service Tool
As Alan Goff discovered recently, it’s not always easy fit a new set of shock absorbers to your classic bike (particularly if you have just the one set of hands). He built a special service tool to take the strain...
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August 31, 2015
Torquing and Tightening
A combination of modern materials and time-honoured techniques can cause problems when it comes to assembling the bottom end of a classic British bike. RC readers debate the how and the why of it...
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August 31, 2015
DIY Wheel Alignment Tool
Even the best classic bike won't corner correctly if its wheels are out of line. Les Howard has come up with an ingenious high-tech method to ensure one wheel follows the other, exactly...
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August 31, 2015
Workshop: Kawasaki W1 overhaul
“I don’t suppose you’d be interested in looking at my rebuilding of a Kawasaki W1’s motor would you?” asked owner Dave Jupp. Of course we would; we’d leap at the chance. Steve Cooper reports...
Workshop - Steve Cooper
December 4, 2014
Workshop: Fit an ignition booster
If you ride a classic bike for any period of time you will inevitably and inexorably find yourself fettling contact breakers and possibly changing condensers. But it doesn't have to be that way...
Workshop - Steve Cooper
September 24, 2014
Workshop: Kawasaki Z400 rebuild: 3
After owner Steve tracks down some serviceable second hand pistons for his Kawasaki Z400 twin - and splashes out for some new rings - Rod Gibson completes the engine rebuild...
Workshop - Rod Gibson
July 2, 2014
Workshop: Suzuki GS750 rebuild part three
After sorting through the pile of bits last month I’m now ready to start reassembling Jason’s GS750 engine...
Workshop - Rod Gibson
July 2, 2014
Workshop: Harley-Davidson Sportster service
The 1200cc vee-twin had delivered three years’ unblemished service to owner Kev but now was the time to visit ‘Dr’ Rod Gibson’s surgery for a medical...
Workshop - Rod Gibson
June 26, 2014
Workshop: Velocette 250 and 350
Velocette 250 and 350 ‘iron engine’ service notes. Models covered are MOV, MAC and MAF. Consistent design methods employed by Veloce Ltd over the years make the remainder of the work simple...
Workshop - Bernal Osborne
April 17, 2014
Workshop: Seat re-covering
When it comes to restoring motorcycles, you can almost bet your hat that the seat is going to be a bit tatty around the edges and requiring a bit of tlc. This month Steve Cooper brings us a guide to re-covering them...
Workshop - Steve Cooper, words and pics
March 11, 2014
Workshop: Iconic engines: Villiers 37A
That the Villiers two-stroke engine has been a major part of off-road motorcycling is fairly obvious but what is it like inside? What are the points to look out for? Classic Dirtbike magazine pulls one apart...
Workshop - Tim Britton
March 11, 2014
Workshop: Honda C77 rebuild parts 4-6
The restoration nears completion. In this part Richard completes the engine strip, reassembles and finishes and refits the body parts
Workshop - Richard Rosenthal
February 12, 2014
Workshop: Norton gearbox overhaul
We reveal the basic dismantling, repair and assembly procedure to the most common Norton gearbox...
Workshop - Magazine editor
September 17, 2013
Workshop: Harley-Davidson Dyna Glide service
One of the great charms of the Harley-Davidson V-twin is its simplicity. You don’t need to be a rocket scientist to work on these bikes and day-to-day servicing should be easily within the abilities of the home mechanic...
Workshop - Rod Gibson
August 22, 2013
Workshop: Yamaha XS650 overhaul: 1
Our 1979 Yamaha XS650 had struggled on the daily commute, then got packed away and forgotten in a damp cellar for almost five years, so it wasn’t a pretty sight. You join the overhaul with the engine already removed from the frame and stripped...
Workshop - Rod Gibson
August 1, 2013
Workshop: Wheel building
Egged on by editorial pressure, editor Rod Gibson explores the art of wheel building for the first time, and discovers the black art isn't as mysterious as it looks...
Workshop - Rod Gibson
June 13, 2013
Workshop: Honda CB750K2 overhaul: 3
Last month I stripped the engine down on our Honda CB750 project bike and found signs that it had been well cared for in its 34 years of service. I'll be replacing the main and big end bearings, primary and camchains. There's also a little wear on the cylinder bores, so I'll get those checked over, too...
Workshop - Rod Gibson
June 10, 2013
Workshop: Camshaft teach in
Rod Gibson gets to grips with the science of camshaft design, and enters a world full of ramps, overlap, lift and durations. But will it make the bike go faster?
Workshop - Rod Gibson
April 10, 2013
Workshop: Suzuki GT750: part one
Rod Gibson had already dismantled the Suzuki GT750 down in his workshop and we start the online feature at the first stage of reassembly. With the engine to one side, Rod concentrated on the cycle parts, having already arranged for the metalwork to be powder coated...
Workshop - Rod Gibson
March 8, 2013
Workshop: Steering head bearings
Motorcycle steering head bearings take a lot of abuse and if ignored they’ll make a good machine handle like a cranky mule. We show you what's involved in keeping things smooth and silky...
Workshop - Steve Cooper
March 8, 2013
Workshop: Balancing carburettors
Rod Gibson’s offers tips and advice on balancing muliple carburettor installations, to keep your four cylinder engine running smoothly...
Workshop - Rod Gibson
February 28, 2013
Workshop: Stud issues
A motorcycle strip-down will often stall with fasteners stubbornly stuck in situ. Before resorting to the electric drill, a range of agents, planned force and tools often removes all but the most awkward customers...
Workshop - Richard Rosenthal, pics by Terry Joslin
February 18, 2013
Workshop: BSA pre-unit service notes
'Polly' Palmer, chairman of the BSA Owners Club goes through the A7/10 Bri-Tie style!
Workshop - Polly Palmer
February 18, 2013
Workshop: Decoking two stroke exhausts
Is a 25 percent power increase for less than the cost of a takeaway for two really possible? Find out as we delve into the carbon-encrusted twilight zone that is often found in two-stroke exhaust systems...
Workshop - Steve Cooper
February 1, 2013
Workshop: Honda CB750K2 overhaul: 1
The Honda had given 33,000 miles of solid service but an overhaul was due, so it was time to think about getting the engine out of the frame for a closer inspection of its internals. Rod Gibson dons his overalls...
Workshop - Rod Gibson
January 23, 2013
Workshop: Honda CB750K2 overhaul:2
The engine from our restoration bike has given 33 years’ solid service and warranted a good looking-at before being pressed back into service. Now, I have to admit it's some time since I last plunged into the innards of an sohc 750 Honda so I was relishing this opportunity to become reacquainted with the beast...
Workshop - Rod Gibson
January 23, 2013
Workshop: Honda CB750K2 overhaul: 4
Looking good! Our project Honda CB750K2 takes a big step towards completion, as Classic Mechanics editor Rod Gibson finishes the engine and re-fits the wheels and suspension...
Workshop - Rod Gibson
January 23, 2013
Workshop: Honda CB750K2 overhaul: 5
Rod Gibson carries out the final tweaks and adjustments to our project Honda CB750K2 restoration, and it looks like it's just left the factory. But what does it ride like?
Workshop - Rod Gibson
January 23, 2013
Workshop: Yamaha XS650 overhaul: 2
Rod Gibson rolls up his sleeves and completes the Yamaha's engine and gearbox rebuild but it’s not going back in the frame just yet – the owner is so pleased with the motor that he’s now going for a full restoration...
Workshop - Rod Gibson
January 23, 2013
Workshop: Engine timing
There’s a time and place for everything in life, including that all important spark for your bike’s engine. This month Steve Cooper talks us through flywheel magneto engine timing...
Workshop - Steve Cooper
January 16, 2013
Workshop: How to keep the wheels turning
Restoring an old model including notes on spoke lacing, fitting new bearings, hub lubrication, brake reassembly and testing and primary drive transmission matters. Part 3...
Workshop - Vic Willoughby
January 8, 2013
Workshop: Can-Am 250cc rebuild: 1
Are we mad? ‘Yes’ seemed to be the popular answer to that question from visitors to Wrighty’s show, where our new Can-Am project bike was unveiled. But we’re determined to get this Can-Am up and running for a grand – £1000 for those reading outside the UK...
Workshop - Tim Britton
October 30, 2012
Workshop: Yamaha RD400 clutch
A heavy clutch and signs of slipping? Pete Monks goes deep into his RD400 to restore a smooth and positive transmission
Workshop - Pete Monks
September 7, 2012
Workshop: Starter motor overhaul
Starter motors on Japanese motorcycles can have a pretty hard life, and we do take them for granted. Rod Gibson brings one up to scratch...
Workshop - Rod Gibson
August 22, 2012
Workshop: Yamaha XT500 part one
Rod Gibson dons his workshop overalls and reveals the engine assembly procedure for Yamaha's big single cylinder trailie, the XT500, then turns his attention to restoring the frame and running gear...
Workshop - Rod Gibson
August 22, 2012
Workshop: Suzuki GT750: part three
The Suzuki GT750 engine is back in the frame at last, but there's still some assembly work to do to reach the finishing straight with our restoration. Rod Gibson rolls up his shirt sleeves again...
Workshop - Rod Gibson
June 14, 2012
Workshop: Can-Am 250cc rebuild: 5
Part five of our Can-Am Bombardier workshop rebuild and we've proved that getting involved in off-road sport doesn’t have to be expensive. Tim Britton takes up the story
Workshop - Tim Britton
June 1, 2012
Workshop: Can-Am 250cc rebuild: 2
Is off-road sport too expensive to get involved in? “No!” we yelled out loud. Classic Dirt Bike reckons it’s possible to get up, running and on the start line for a grand – or £1000 if you prefer – and set out to prove it. Tim Britton takes up the story...
Workshop - Tim Britton
April 25, 2012
Workshop: Can-Am 250cc rebuild: 3
Getting involved in off-road sport doesn’t have to be expensive and we’re going to prove it with a grand idea. Tim Britton rolls up his sleeves for the third instalment of our project Can-Am rebuild...
Workshop - Tim Britton
April 25, 2012
Workshop: Can-Am 250cc rebuild: 4
Part four of our Can-Am 250cc Bombardier rebuild sees some fresh paintwork and us getting closer to the finishing post. Tim Britton explains...
Workshop - Tim Britton
April 25, 2012
Workshop: Suzuki GT750: part two
In part one Rod Gibson started the reassembly of our project 'Kettle', Suzuki's three-cylinder two stroke GT750. Now the wheels can go on to the chassis, and the engine begins to take shape...
Workshop - Rod Gibson
April 23, 2012
Workshop: Suzuki GT750: part four
Our project Suzuki 'Kettle' GT750 is finally back together and running sweetly. Rod Gibson heaves a sigh of relief, and takes it out on test...
Workshop - Rod Gibson
April 23, 2012
Workshop: Yamaha XT500 part two
Second part of Rod Gibson's reassembly of Yamaha's XT500 single engine
Workshop - Rod Gibson
March 14, 2012
Workshop: Triumph Trident T150V: 1
A box of engine parts arrives in Rod Gibson’s workshop masquerading as a 1973 Triumph triple engine. Rod is told that everything is there but inevitably he’ll have to go in search of some parts
Workshop - Rod Gibson
March 9, 2012
Workshop: Triumph Trident T150V: 2
Rod Gibson finishes his rebuild of the complicated three cylinder engine with work on the transmission. A hugely satisfying job - but Japanese bikes are easier to work on he says
Workshop - Rod Gibson
March 9, 2012
Workshop: Yamaha XT500 part three
The motor’s rebuilt and all the parts are refinished. All that remains before the final assembly is to patch up the exhaust. Rod Gibson breaks out the welder
Workshop - Rod Gibson
March 9, 2012
Workshop: Kawasaki Z400 rebuild: 1
A neglected Kawasaki Z400 engine with all its road muck still on and left exposed to the elements without spark plugs fitted. Rod Gibson goes in...
Workshop - Rod Gibson
January 30, 2012
Workshop: Kawasaki Z400 rebuild: 2
Rod Gibson orders parts from Z-Power and is told that his Kawasaki twin is an older 400, not what he thought...
Workshop - Rod Gibson
January 30, 2012
Workshop: Kawasaki Z1 rebuild: 1
The Kawasaki Z1 is the definitive Japanese four-cylinder motorcycle – the bike that launched a thousand clones. Rod Gibson strips an original 1972 model to see what makes it tick
Workshop - Rod Gibson
January 10, 2012
Workshop: Kawasaki Z1 rebuild: 2
In part one Rod Gibson stripped the engine on our 1972 Kawasaki Z1, despite a struggle to separate the barrels from the crankcase. Now all the components can be examined
Workshop - Rod Gibson
January 10, 2012
Workshop: Kawasaki Z1 rebuild: 3
In the last part of the rebuild our Z1 engine was ready for reassembly. Rod Gibson rolls up his sleeves to inject new life into the king of motorcycles
Workshop - Rod Gibson
January 10, 2012
Workshop: Honda CB125T part one
Angie’s Honda CB125TDC has been languishing in a rather unloved state in the back of my shed for over a year, waiting for me to sort it out.
Workshop - Rod Gibson
January 9, 2012
Workshop: Honda CB125T part two
In part one I stripped Angie’s Honda CB125TDC engine down to sort out an oil burning problem. Now with the bike in bits I can take some time to examine the engine internals and sort out what work needs to be done to put the bike back on the road
Workshop - Rod Gibson
January 9, 2012
Workshop: Honda CB125T part three
Rod Gibson moves on to the final stage of the Honda's 125 engine rebuild
Workshop - Rod Gibson
January 9, 2012
Workshop: Vincent valve overhaul
The method used to open a Vincent's valves is quite unusual. The valve stem is made with two guide location diameters and the cylinder head holds the lower guide whilst the upper one fits into a machined location and is held in place. We explain...
Workshop - Colin Taylor
December 21, 2011
Workshop: BSA A50/A65 service notes
Polly Palmer, proprietor of Bri-Tie Motorcycles and President of the BSA Owners Club, overhauls the A50/65
Workshop - Polly Palmer
December 8, 2011
Workshop: BSA fork overhaul
Proprietor of Bri-Tie Motorcycles and President of the BSA OC 'Polly' Palmer runs through a simple strip down of the BSA A10 and A65 front suspension
Workshop - 'Polly' Palmer
December 6, 2011
Workshop: Yamaha XS250 parts 1-3
Three used engines in various states of distress, one workshop and a couple of spare weekends. Rod Gibson's task was to make one good unit
Workshop - Rod Gibson
November 14, 2011
Workshop: Honda C77 rebuild parts 1-3
Ignoring his own advice, Richard Rosenthal buys a totally dismantled, probably incomplete Honda C77 in an effort to live out a teenage dream. Here he sorts the kit
Workshop - Richard Rosenthal
November 14, 2011
Workshop: Suzuki GS750 rebuild part one
Our Suzuki had started to burn a little oil and drop out of gear, so Rod Gibson thought it time for an overhaul. First of three parts
Workshop - Rod Gibson
November 14, 2011
Workshop: Suzuki GS750 rebuild part two
Second part of Rod Gibson's Suzuki GS750 engine overhaul. Here he surveys the damage...
Workshop - Rod Gibson
November 14, 2011
Workshop: AJS-Matchless 500 twins
Service notes specifically for the AJS and Matchless 500cc twins, although it will generally apply to all AMC twins
Workshop - Magazine editor
November 2, 2011