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If you’d like to get your Japanese classic bike ready for the summer shows and still need a vital spare part or ten, then Steve Cooper of the VJMC knows where you’ll find them…
Although the VJMC is a Japanese bike club, collectively and individually we have a passion for all motorcycles. If we needed to establish our credentials perhaps you only have to look at our multi-bike, multi-market, multi-origin Uttoxeter show of 2007. It was a runaway success and virtually every club that came complimented the VJMC on the way it ran the show. It’s all go on the VJMC front for 2008 and we’d love to see as many RealClassic readers as possible at our events. If you have even the vaguest interest in machines from the Orient please come and have a chat, we’d love to have a chin wag with you.
Honda CB750 four
But before the summer shows swing into action, Sunday April 13th 2008 sees one of the best autojumbles for Japanese bikes, consumables, paraphernalia and parts you are likely to come across. The Badshot Lea autojumble is the place to be. There are bargains galore to be had and haggling for that rare part is all part of the fun. Because the occasion is a club-organised event there’s a lot less of the overt commercialism which is something that pervades some autojumbles. Prices are always reasonable but it’s the sheer variety of parts on offer that makes this event both popular and successful.
flat-Track style Yamaha SR500
Personal experience has shown it is entirely possible to find parts for a rare 50cc Yamaha 1962 step-through at reasonable cost thanks to events such as this. Yes, I know it’s a stupid thing to do but someone has to restore them! Other bargains that have been snapped up include brand new Alpine Star boots for £20, bargain lots of Motorex oil at 80% discount, DID or Takasago wheel rims at a fraction of eBay prices etc, etc.
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Many bike dealers are club members and the Badshot Lea event is a very useful outlet for new old stock that’s been cluttering up their store rooms for years. Likewise clothing and helmets that have gone out of fashion with the plastic fantastic brigade can be moved on at silly prices to an eager customer base for whom fashion isn’t obligatory. After all our bikes haven’t been this-seasons-must-haves for many a year! This jumble also offers more than just spare parts. If you fancy a Japanese bike but don’t want to build one from a box of bits then get yourself down to Badshot Lea. From early 1960’s Hondas through to 70’s Yamaha road-burning twins, 80’s Kawasaki GPZs or even an early 90’s sports tourer there’s normally a running bike to suit all tastes. Many are still taxed and tested and are only being sold because their owners fancy a change. |
Katana stuff on eBay |
Or if you want a restoration project then this is the event to head for. From the worthy commuters through to the truly esoteric there’s a project for everyone’s tastes and budgets. Last year’s events saw three or four of Suzuki’s iconic T125 Stingers up for grabs and at sensible money. If you don’t have the knowledge or skills to take on a project there are plenty of experts on hand to help.
Suzuki Katana 1100
So where is this Mecca for all things two-wheeled and oriental? You’ll find it at the Sea Cadet Training Centre, TS Swiftsure, Lower Weybourne Road, Badshot Lea, Aldershot, Hampshire, GU9 9HW, on Sunday April 13th 2008. The gates open at 8am and the event closes at 2pm. The event is open to members, non-members, stall holders and the general public; it only costs a measly quid whether you’re buying or selling. Hope to see you there; I’ll be the silly old git smiling inanely at a handful of Yamaha parts!
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Vintage Japanese Motorcycle Club: www.vjmc.com
VJMC Show dates and other events: www.realclassic.co.uk/events.html
Honda CD185
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