You can’t beat the intake roar of a Suzuki Cobra as it gulps in air, then mixes some petrol into it, squirts some oil in for good measure then applies a spark. The resultant explosion moves a cacophony of two wheeled metal, paint and chrome down the road often accompanied by a "blue haze". This is much to the appreciation and delight of some might say, a bunch of predominantly sad old men! Not that this author would, but last months end of month ride saw some great examples of late sixties and seventies Japanese classic two stroke road bike’s out and about in their natural environment; on the road. Warrens 68 Suzuki T500 Cobra 500 was accompanied by Paul and Sir Als Kawasaki 750 H2 “Widow Makers” and it is important to remember these bikes are each over 50 years old. Grant had his mighty Suzuki GT 250 A out as well which is also fast approaching its 50th anniversary and rounding out the Japanese classics was Graham on his Suzuki VX800. It was also great to see John join us on his ever reliable classic BMW R60/6 which is also approaching the fifty year mark. With the value of these bikes appreciating to giddy heights, it is wonderful to see them being used and shared.
Along for a run were a range of support crew on a variety of bikes. As always, the route for our run was decided on the day and it was Warren on the oldest bike who suggested a run around the Santoft loop and back to Halcombe and the Rusty Radiator for a cuppa and a pie. A top up at Bulls for the thirsty two strokes was agreed upon and we were soon on our way. With Warren in the lead we made our way up State Highway Three and he had little trouble keeping up with the traffic. After topping up at Bulls we headed off on our loop and we all enjoyed its mix of tight and open corners and that soft rolling countryside that is probably the reason there are two golf courses along the way!
The run into Halcombe had us meandering past the outskirts of Marton and parking up outside the Rusty Radiator with parched mouths and rumbling tums. It was great to see the pie cabinet fully stocked and in no time the troops were enjoying the caffeine, pies and other treats! All to soon it was time to head back into town and as I videoed and photographed these wonderful classic bikes disappearing off down the road those sights and sounds will definitely linger until at least ..... next months ride! See you then.
Warren - Suzuki T500 Cobra
Paul D - Kawasaki 750 H2
Sir Al - Kawasaki 750 H2
Grant - Suzuki GT250 A
John - BMW R60/6
Graham - Suzuki VX800
Paul - Moto Guzzi V85 TT
Dave R - Moto Guzzi 850 V7 Special
Gary A - BMW F650GS
Ray - Triumph Bud Ekins Bonneville T100 Special
Errol - Royal Enfield 650
Gary W - Suzuki GSR750
