The classic vehicles thread....

[ucl82]

Next up is a moped. When I was 16 like most young boys who love motorcycles I wanted to get out on the roads as soon as I could. I got my CBT (on the second day, after crashing into a hedge on the first :D) and was able to ride my second bike which I had bought a few months before.
It was a 1960 Norman Super Lido which cost all of £160. It came with no documents or number plate but after getting it through the MOT (with new tyres, rewiring the electrics etc) I was able to get an age related plate put on it. It then became my daily vehicle in all weathers, not the way most people use a rare vehicle (there are around 5 in total known to survive). It did very well, of course it had the occasional breakdown but nothing that couldn't be fixed. I was very fortunate to be a member of the East Anglian Cyclemotor Club for anyone who loves underpowered two stroke bikes and there are some fantastic guys willing to help with all kinds of spares. This came in handy one summers day when I was reaching 40mph downhill when all of a sudden the engine seized on the big end. I was able to scavenge a complete crankshaft and piston from another Sachs engine. Average cruising speed was about 33mph and it could manage most hills in second gear. It was a lovely little bike to ride and I miss it dearly, again I had to sell it to insure the Marina. It went to a dealer chap who then sold it on (at a loss!) to a chap with a large collection of classic motorcycles and has since been spotted on other EACC runs. When I next get some money I hope to get another classic moped and rejoin the club runs once more. Maybe a James Autocycle or a 1950s Mobylette.
I spent a fortune on this bike and it was the most unreliable vehicle I have ever known but I loved it dearly and wish I could have it back It was also the cheapest to run... Fully comp insurance cost me all of £258, tax was free and it did 170mpg.