2009 Honda 250 Rebel on 2040-motos

Moto blog

Buying countless tatty bikes. And that Marquez fella

A South African friend of mine called Trevor Binder told me last weekend I’m quite obviously in the advanced stages of a terrible disease. He recognises the affliction because he admits to suffering from the same condition for many years and so far hasn’t found a cure.  He says he can’t stop collecting bikes and while I didn’t think I had a problem, last weekend he pointed out I should be careful as I’m starting to acquire bikes at an alarming rate. I wasn’t really worried about spending a modest amount of cash an old KTM 125 race bike, a 350 LC and a Fizzy over the past six months but Trevor says I’m on a slippery slope.  He says it always starts with bikes that have some sentimental value but then swiftly moves on to buying any old tat.  Trevor is a wealthy man with dozens of nice bikes in his collection but more recently has been on Gumtree bidding for £150 Solex front wheel drive step - thrus, and doesn’t know why.  Closer to home, James Whitham has recently confirmed he may also have these symptoms and is actively seeking therapy.  I’ll be monitoring the situation from now on but in the meantime if anyone hears of a reasonably priced Raleigh Wisp for sale please let me know.

Traction control? Yawn...

My long-term Fireblade went back to Honda last week and, seeing as it’s sunny and mild outside now, I’m already missing it. It is one of the best 1000cc sports bikes out there, I don’t care what anyone else says, the way it makes its power is just perfect for fast road use. With the Power Commander 5 fitted and the fuelling sorted my 2011 Blade performed as well if not better than the 2012 version.

A Feel Good Purchase

If you’re diggin’ the ’73 CB450 pictured above it’s currently for sale on eBay with nearly three days left in which to bid. The side benefit to purchasing this custom cafe classic is that 15 percent of the proceeds from the sale of the CB go to Wellspring International Outreach. Built by Hangar Cycleworks the vintage Honda boasts a rebuilt motor, a custom 2-into-1, high-mount exhaust system, Mikuni VM32 carburetors, a Dyno electronic ignition, power coated frame, swingarm, hubs, wheels, triple trees and motor mounts and custom color-matched Tyrolean Green Metallic paint among a scored of other niceties.