FEBRUARY/MARCH 2004

Classic Motorcycle Club of NatalCommittee Members

(Phone Number Area Code is 031 unless otherwise stated)CHAIRMAN EDITOR

JIM CRAMER62 HILLTOP RDBLUFF 4052

(H) 466 2108

VICE CHAIRMANRACING CLERK OF THE COURSE

BOB WEST15 PLANTATION GROVEKISSIN LANE.AMANZIMTOTI.4126

(H) 9036007(W) 467 0382

TREASURER RON DUKES32 INVERNESS49 SOUTH RIDGE RDGLENWOOD 4001

(H) 201 3316 (W) 265 3000FAX 265 3011CELL 082 465 5839E-mail: rondu@absa.co.za

SECRETARY HAVERLEY DUKESAs above

(H) and FAX : 2013316CELL 082 3967022E-mail: hav@dukes.co.za

CLUB REGISTRAR ANDREW MATHER11 WINDSOR DRIVEDURBAN NORTH 4051

(H) 563 7986 (W) 3002281CELL 083 309 0233Fax: 3056952 mathera@cesu.durban.gov.za

CLUBHOUSE MANAGER MIKE MATHEWS600 MARINE DRIVEBLUFF 4052

(H) 467 8648(W) 301 6422CELL 082 377 8580

PIST ‘n BROKE MANAGER LIZ MATHEWSAs above

(H) 467 8648

DATING OFFICER BRIAN ELAM50 BERKSHIRE DRIVENEW GERMANY 3610

(H) 705 1954CELL 083 797 1954

LIBRARIAN ALAN YOUNG152 ORIEL RDBLUFF 4052

(H) 467 7294(W) 902 3209CELL 082 653 8971

ASSISTANT OUTINGSCO-ORDINATOR

GEOFF WELLBELOVED96 WINCHELSEA AVE.BLUFF 4052

(H) 467 7209CELL 082 202 2841

CATERING MANAGER SUE WELLBELOVEDAs above

(H) 467 7209

OUTINGS CO-ORDINATOR DEREK PIRIE36 MYRTLE RDGLENWOOD 4001

(H) 2056844(W) 9104636CELL 082 673 1335

SPARES MANAGER MICHAEL BURDENCLUSTERBOX 212CRESTHOLME. 3652

(W) 765 6012CELL: 083 4141988

100 CLUB ORGANISER SALOME VAN NIEKERKP O Box 41587ROSSBURGH

(H) 4655831(W) 3612054

RACING COMMITTEECHAIRMAN

GEOFF ISACKS4 WINDHAM AVEHILLARY 4094

(W) 363 1629(H) 464 9121

REGALIA OFFICER AUBREY CILLIERS24 PASTOLL RDPINETOWN3610

(H) 708 5934(W) 464 0900CELL: - 083 922 0133

RALLY CLERK OF THE COURSESAVVA DELEGATE

KEN SINK11 LOVAT RDROSEHILL 4051

(H) 563 2403

SHOW BARBARA SINKAs above

(H) 563 2403

CHIEF STOREMAN BADIE BADENHORSTP O Box 39355QUUESBURGH4070

(H) 4644148CELL 083 738 0527

Classic Motorcycle Club of Natalwww.webweavers.co.za/classicbikes

HEADQUARTERS

POSTAL ADDRESS137 TARA ROAD P.O.BOX 21759BLUFF BLUFFDURBAN 4036

FEBRUARY/MARCH 2004

EDITORIAL/CHAIRMANS CHIRP.So here we are, already at our second Main Meeting in 2004. Shops and supermarkets are already displaying Easter goodies. Next month is the D.J. and not long after that is Bob West’s Racing at Gateway in April, after which comes our “Plums in May” Auto/Jumble sale. Then comes our Natal Classic Regularity Trial at Drakensville followed closely by our 2004 Wheels Expo at Pinetown in July. In between all these events are breakfast and brunch runs, racing at Idube and Masons Mill, Cars in the Park at Pietermaritzburg on 16th May, Main Meetings, Social Meetings, Friday night braais, etc. etc. It’s all there for you to participate in, enjoy and at least support wherever it is required. As I said in my Annual Report – I would like to see more of you on our runs and on our Regularity Trial. More at our Friday night braais and more at our Classic racing events, if not competing then perhaps supporting or at least spectating. Over to you.

SUBS ARE DUE – PAY UP AND SMILE!Jim CramerEditor

*********NEW MEMBERSWe extend a warm welcome to the following new members : Yves Carle, Dave Strauss, Ron Tanner,Dudley Schafer, Malcolm Lategan, Ron McMurray, Derek Kirk, Tony deMelo, Clive Stead and Peter Richards,

*********UP FOR BALLOT – SATURDAY 7th FEBRUARY 2004Dr. Marius Spies. Good luck , Doctor.Jim.

*********PAST EVENTS.Our “Day of the Harleys” at Saturday 6th December’s Main Meeting was hugely successful. Raymond Taylors’ Fish Eagles’ Eye spied 34 gleaming Hogs in the Pig Pen, 34 Rice Burners in the Paddyfield, 28 Classics in the Troo Bloo Park and 7 outfits in the Sidecar Park. Les Boes, one of the lady visitors, won our R1000 Draw. Thereafter there were lucky draws for a dozen bottles of wine, some of which was won by our visitors and some by our members. Everyone enjoyed themselves and there were several requests for a repeat some time this year which I’m sure we will arrange. Many Thanks to all the Harley Riders and to you our members who made it a terrific event.

Our year-end combined Committee Meeting and Race meeting was enjoyed by all. Thank you to Sue Wellbeloved for organising the snacks.

The kiddies Xmas party was quite wonderful, the kids loved it and so did the adults who, like the kids, were spellbound by the animal show put on by the two Radford sisters with their

“Menagerie”. Thank you to Graham Isacks who arranged the show, to Sue Wellbeloved who decorated the club and to those who assisted her with the eats. Thank you to Father Xmas, alias Raymond Taylor, for distributing the pressies and for showing off his colourful under rods – albeit by accident !

Our traditional “Xmas Eve” afternoon Braai was reasonably well attended. As per our Shop torque we were all home by 18h00 awaiting beddytime and Father Xmas( with his pants on) I heard however that a certain couple (who obviously didn’t read their Shop torque) arrived at the Club at 18h00 only to find it all locked up. Sorry folks, this year I’ll remind you to get there earlier

Our New Years Eve Social was also reasonably well attended. Most of us partook of the excellent fare provided by the club at R25 per head and prepared by Sue while some opted to Braai. Good food, good company and at midnight we toasted the New Year in.

Shame! Now we have to wait nearly a year for all that to happen again. However there are possibly at least two people who perhaps give a little sigh of relief that its over for a while. But then again every Main meeting, Social meeting, social event and club-to-club ride sees them doing things to quench our thirst and fill our bellies. I refer of course to Liz Mathews who (wo)mans Pist‘n Broke and to Sue Wellbeloved who mans the Dads Bag Café counter. Yes, they have assistants when needed but these two ladies are in the forefront of these two well patronised facilities. Thank you Liz and Sue for all that you do for us horrible hooligans.

Our “Best of British Day” at our Main meeting on Saturday 3rd January was well supported with 11 Brit bikes on display. Our lucky draw for three of the display owners went down well with the owner of the first number to be drawn( each of the bikes was numbered) being invited to choose either a Club Beer mug, Club T-shirt or Club Cap. The owner of the second number drawn had a choice and, of course, the last one drawn won the remaining prize. I like these lucky draws for different marques and makes. If anyone would care to donate any prizes we would be delighted.Jim CramerChairman/Editor

*********THE FIRST BREAKFAST RUN OF THE YEAR.Sunday 11-01-2004, 07h05, phone call, where are you?An eager Derek Pirie making sure that I didn’t miss the first breakfast run of the year. I think that his main concern was that there were only four machines at the club at that stage. Anyway by the time we left we must have had at least twelve mixed machines lined up in front of our trusty sweep and Chairman.It must have looked rather strange as we proceeded along the road as in the lead was the old Harley and sidecar followed by a mixture of old and new from AJS, BSA to modern Yamaha R6, cruisers and others. Mally Doyle as usual opened up and had his own ride to meet up with the others at Kloof. I am sure that the motor in his AJS is a Yamaha 500 in disguise; it goes far to quickly for an AJS.At Kloof we met up with another batch of machines and after the usual smoke break and

banter the group moved on via Kloof Gorge and Hillcrest to our venue, which was the Stonehaven Castle in the Shongweni valley.At this point I would advise that riding behind Mally Doyle on a long downhill is not a good idea at all as our friend has a habit of twitching his twist grip and thus emitting flames from the outlet of his exhaust. I tell you it is not pleasant having particles of hot carbon popping into your face.Breakfast was really enjoyable as Stonehaven definitely put on a fine meal and in the surroundings one is very happy to pay the price for quality. For those who weren’t there we enjoyed: - coffee and tea on arrival (also bar facilities). Served buffet style were: - bacon rolls (a nice touch I felt), mushroom sauce, slightly curried musical beans, scrambled eggs, hash browns, onions and toast. This of course could have been preceded by cereal and yoghurt. All in all a healthy full breakfast, which I am sure, was enjoyed by all.After filling the inner person we moved out into the shade of the castle wall and did the usual which, as most people know is, the smokers smoked and chatted, the usual subject- machine rebuilds, old and new.Slowly but surely the group of about twenty-five machines left in smaller groups to allow Stonehaven and the Shongweni valley to return to its normal peace and tranquility.Thanks I feel should go to Derek for organising the run, Jim our patient sweep (even when Palmer ends up behind him), our Gauteng guests on their moderns, the owners and staff of Stonehaven and most of all to the guys who are brave enough to come out on an oldie. Thanks to all of you.Madman

*********VICE CHAIRMAN’S NATTER – BOB WESTWe will start with the important things first. On the 29th of October I became a granddad to a cute little girl "Jenna-Lea".Both mum and baby were fine and she has already doubled her birthweight.Jenna-Lea was born in 2003 and her great-great grandma who is still alive was born in 1904 and is 100 years old this year. I wonder if Jenna-Lea will be around in 2103,and what will motorbikes look like then. Maybe Classic racing will be arguing over whether bikes had wheels or not before 2050.Maybe Jenna-Lea would take a shuttle to the moon to see her grandchildren. Hopefully the Americans will have stopped trying to rule the world and tin pot dictators are a thing of the past. One thing I do know is for me to see 100 years old it will be 2054.I wonder if BSA's will be around then Jim?On the 6th December we went up to Zwartskop to race in the Classics. I got a 2nd and a 5th and Neil who came with me got two 3rd places. For some reason that didn't go down to well with the Jo-burg clan and we have now been informed that I can't ride my Yamaha there because it has alloy wheels and alloy wheels were not invented before 1975.I have faxed them pictures of John Williams 'Norton Commando' of 1972 and 1973 including Teuvo Lansivuori's 750cc Suzuki from 1975 both with the same wheels as mine. But it seems to have fallen on deaf ears. So for the David Piper Day on the 31st January I will ride my Norton from 1954.If I win on that it will be a miracle, but if I do they could ban it for having a Yamaha front mud guard.Umhlanga is on the 3rd of April with a much bigger track.Mr Price has already committed to it but we need more sponsors and we have to keep it looking professional, so bikes must be looking good and all the riders MUST wear leathers,boots,gloves and helmets which must be in good condition. No holes in leathers taped up with duct tape.(You will not ride if you turn up with a scruffy bike or gear).You have been warned so no tears on the day.

The dates for the year calendar are as follows:Sun    14 March    IdubeSat     03 April      GatewaySun    11 April      Masons MillSun    09 May       IdubeSun    20 June      Masons MillSun    15 Aug       IdubeSun    12 Sept      Masons MillSun    10 Oct        IdubeSun    14 Nov        Masons Mill Congratulations to Duncan Day and Robin Aldred for getting their Natal Colours,Duncan for Classics and Robin for Production 50cc.Both had to fight off stiff competition and although both of them didn't win that many races they kept getting 2nd and 3rds.Just goes to show that racing is not about winning. its about finishing.Also congratulations to Hudson for coming 3rd in the National Superbikes and getting a DNF  and a 2nd place in France in the GSXR Suzuki Cup in freezing weather. Cell C Suzuki have renewed his contract for this year on 1000cc Suzuki Superbikes.By the way the race in France was against the top Suzuki riders in the world. So 2nd place isn't bad in my book.Wishing you all a prosperous New Year..Baffled Muffler

*********CHANGE TO CONSTITUTION – RON DUKESAt the 2003 AGM it was agreed that those members who are 80 years of age or over will no longer have to pay annual subscriptions, garden levy or SAVVA levy. However I do not have all members I.D Numbers and ask any member who is affected by this amendment to see me .

*********THE NATAL CLASSIC REGULARITY TRIAL 10th – 13th JUNE 2004 – KEN SINK.Dear All,Well all the best for the New Year to the club members that Barbara and I have not seen. We will be away for a while visiting Barbara’s sister who is not well.The Natal Classic is in June again and we hope to see all the old faces and would love to welcome some new ones. Its great riding, and it’s a good weekend to bring your wife with you.Meals are available for Thursday evening, Friday breakfast, lunch and supper and Saturday breakfast , lunch and Prize giving dinner, as well as Sunday breakfast. You can have as many or as few of these meals as you like. Accommodation has self catering facilities.If you are not competing you can still have a Route schedule and follow those who are.Hope to see you at Drakensville.(Haverley will have Entry forms in February.)

********* 2004 WHEELS EXPO – BARBARA SINK.We would love you to make this event even better than last year. Please try to get businesses to take Trade stands as that is where we have always made our profit. This year our share of the money is coming to us to decide what to do with it. Please see Pip Lorentz if you can help us in any way.The effort you all put into the club stand last year was fantastic. Lets see if we can do that

again this year. Other clubs are already saying they will win this year, Let’s show them that they don’t have a chance. Let me know if you will organise a stand after you have had time to think about it. Get together with members who have the same bikes as you. This year we are going to have a small club prize for the Best stand within our club stand.(All the bikes together is the club stand). Can you organise a Bike Run by other clubs, or breakfast runs or even a Birthday Toy Run? Anything that will bring people to the Show.Cycle clubs have wheels. Ask them. If you have any response please let Pip know.

*********SOUTHERN AFRICAN VETERAN and VINTAGE ASSOCIATION

VETERAAN MOTORVERENIGING vir SUIDER AFRIKA CHAIRMAN’S NEWSLETTER – November 2003

The Annual General Meeting has come and gone. The key points of interest for members can be summarised as; The vehicle licensing issue now has the attention of Government and we are confident of a positive response in the near future. The new rally program on a Windows platform was demonstrated and seems to be on the right track. Development is quite advanced and the delivery and costs are

being monitored. The third issue is that from 2004 Drivers/ Riders and Navigators will need to purchase a MSA Restricted Competition Licence and Indemnity annually. The cut off date of vehicles for SAVVA Events and Insurance under the scheme remains at December 1980. More on these points and other issues will be available shortly.

The first of the new look SAVVA Nationals was staged by the VVC during the last week of September in the Vaal River area. Members of the Vaal Old Wheels Club, relatively new members to SAVVA provided Marshals and a superb venue for the Competitors Meeting and first get together. The hospitality was outstanding so much so that competitors gathered there on subsequent evenings. The event itself was well organised on roads that were quiet in terms of traffic and taxi volumes and competitors were able to visit scenic places along the Vaal River and dam unknown previously. I still believe the brown veld of the Highveld and dam water in winter is still scenic. The weather was superb with lovely warm days and cool evenings. The lunch stop at the Heidelberg Transport Museum was a highlight for many but a matter of concern is the possible loss of their financial sponsorship. For those members who have not stopped at Heidelberg in the past it is well worth the time and effort and Judy Le Grange will make you very welcome.

The three days of the event saw the fortunes of competitors change quite dramatically for despite clear signage too many overhead wires and windmills it was not easy to miss a green water tank with all the brown of the scenery or Trigonometrical Beacons. The route schedules were clear in large bold print thanks to the skills of Pat Liberty from Port Elizabeth who was imported to run the computer side of the event. Vehicles of all ages were represented from the two beautiful Veteran Renaults of Peter and Trevallyn Hall to the magnificent and majestic 1919 Cadillac of Kobus and Allie van Jaarsveld through to the gaggle of MGBs, Hickels BVC, Cunninghams VVC, Odendaal/Michel EPVCC of the 1970’s. Other eye catchers included the pretty 1930 Ford A of the Steenkamps PR, 1937 International Panel Van of Jan Bezuidenhout VOW, the van Rooyen’s 1935 Chevrolet Sedan EPVCC, Dick Maizey’s newly acquired 1953 Citroen light 15 VVC, the Jones 1939

Derby Bentley VVC, Peter Posniak/Anneke de Groot in a Harley Davidson Combo that was judged as a car as it had a navigator VVC, the McLaren Porsche of 1959 PR, the beautiful 1958 Bentley Continental of Benjy Dell NOFS and the biggest of the lot the 1961 Cadillac Coupe of Len and Clair Slater VCC. Most makes were represented in 51 entries.

The winners were the POMC Buurman/Heugh team in a 1970 Mercedes 280se with 104 penalty points followed by the Mclarens with 125 and third were Johan and Marita van Rooyen 147. I would like to again acknowledge the efforts and contributions to the event by Wynand Swanepoel and Betty Richmond along with their team of helpers.

The daily results for those who prefer an analytical view were as follows. I do not expect you to print the whole lot but this was my first cut but felt the above would be more interesting to readers.

Clint

Day 1 saw the Mclarens in a 59 Porsche with 20 penalties followed by Vince Warren-Hansen and Marj in a 67 Volvo with 25 points and Evert Buurman and Colleen in a 70 Mercedes with 27 penalties. The 15th placed competitor only had 74 penalty points. Day 2 saw Tony Lyons-Lewis on a 28 Norton first with 11 penalties followed by the Buurman team with 23 and Peter and Val McEwan third with 30 points. The 15th placed team incurred 59 penalty points. On day 3 the 42 Harley Davidson combination of Peter Posniak and Anneke de Groot running as a “car” entry as there was a navigator were tops with 49 penalties. Again the Buurman team was there with 54 penalties followed by Phil and Sharon Hammond in a 58 Healey with 56. On this day the 15 th placed finisher incurred 111 penalty points. The penalties were generally much higher this day.

SOUTHERN AFRICAN VETERAN and VINTAGE ASSOCIATIONVETERAAN MOTORVERENIGING vir SUIDER AFRIKA

CHAIRMAN’S NEWSLETTER – December 2003 / January 2004

Last weekend I was privileged to attend the Fairest Cape Motorcycle National based at Ceres and hosted by Spider Wilbraham and the Cape Vintage Motorcycle Club. It was again wonderful to see competitors who had traveled from all over the country to be there. The hospitality was warm and friendly while Organisers and Competitors made me very welcome. There was much debate on SAVVA over dinner and I welcomed the

opportunity to promote the activities of the Association and the benefits of affiliation. It was also an honor to be invited to start the 60 competitors off on the second day of the event. I hope to be invited back again next year?

I must acknowledge and congratulate all the competitors who were clearly having a wonderful time while covering some 600 kilometers of Regularity around the inland towns of the Western Cape in temperatures well into the high 30’s accompanied by strong winds. Nine mountain passes were negotiated and towns visited were as far apart as Malmsbury, Touws River, Montague, Robertson and Worcester. The oldest rider was Tony Woodley at 83 on a 1920 Triumph belt drive motorcycle. How’s that for endurance? Congratulations to

Kevin Robertson of Johannesburg on winning the event with 74 penalties followed by Stuart Fergusson of Port Elizabeth with 87 and third Alan Birch of Cape Town with 95 and the highest placed Vintage bike.

While in Ceres I took the opportunity to visit a friend and serious collector of American Convertibles whose cars must rate as one of the best collections in SA. I also visited the Wijnland Motor Museum on the way to Cape Town at Kraaifontein. Now this is a collection with a difference!!! I was pleased to meet Les Boshoff who made me very welcome and escorted me around his emporium of very original vehicles dating back to the 1920’s. Many have a fascinating history and are a little worse for wear but interesting all the same. If visiting the Cape this is worth a visit.

The main purpose of my visit to the Cape was to attend the 100th Anniversary Houw Hoek Veteran event from Greenmarket Square, Cape Town to Houw Hoek Inn a distance of some 75 km including Sir Lowrys Pass. I happily accepted the invitation to a ride with Peter Hyslop in his recently completed and magnificent 1928 Falcon Knight but that morning the Autovac decided to play up so I ended up going modern and taking photographs of the veterans climbing the pass. 30 Veterans and about 40 later vehicles to 1975 participated in the one day event to be followed by a further 3 days of touring for the veterans around the mountains of Hermanus and Franschoek before finishing in Simonstown on Wednesday evening. Again it was wonderful to see the many veteran stalwarts from Natal, Gauteng, Mpumalanga and the Free State taking part. I hope this will encourage members of the Crankhandle Club to cross the Black River and reciprocate when there are national events organised outside the Western Cape in the future. Western Cape members were conspicuous by their absence at the SAVVA National at the Vaal this year. I was not invited to say anything so could not express these sentiments at the Competitors Meeting. John White’s cordial welcome was much appreciated however. As an aside the only competitive event that I have ever won was the Houw Hoek in about 1983 in a 1935 Austin 10.

Here is the advance notice for the 2004 SAVVA National. Fred Rascher our Vice Chairman is the convener and organising resources are being drawn from several Kwazulu Natal Clubs, which I am delighted to see. It will be based at Drakensville near Ladysmith from September 19 to 23. The cost for two people will be below R2,500. More details in the New Year.

The issues around the new Restricted Competition Licences, Indemnities and Permits have been resolved with the Historic Commission. It now only remains for the Executive of MSA to confirm matters. Be assured however that the new arrangements will become effective from January 2004. Once this is finalized all clubs will be advised and a notice placed on the Web site.

The Insurance office will be closed between December 20 and January 02 but messages and emails can be sent and will be handled upon my return. The addition of vehicles for existing policyholders will be automatic provided details are sent but regrettably no new business can be accepted. If there is a claim that cannot wait for my return please telephone the company on 041 508 3074 and Bev will assist you. Talk to Bernice about other issues on 041 508 3088.

I am saddened to have to report the death of Gerald Fox in Johannesburg who was shot by robbers. He was a generous supporter of the movement with giveaways for events. Our condolences to his family and colleagues.

Finally by the time this is read we will be in the midst of the Christmas Season. On behalf of the National Council, Portfolio Holders and myself I extend to all members their families and those interested persons who regularly visit our website a Peaceful and Joyous Christmas with much good fortune, prosperity and safe old vehicle motoring in 2004 whether this be on two wheels, three wheels, four wheels or even more.

Clint MorrisSAVVA Chairman

********THE DATING GAME – BRIAN ELAMIt’s some time since I have written an article on the dating procedure. I often see F.A.Q’s in modern writings so here’s a couple of frequently asked questions I receive.

Why date a bike?If you wish to enter our bike competitions for which trophies are awarded or enter a rally or a Time trial, then the bike must be SAVVA dated. Apart from that it also adds a little more to the value of a bike when you can say it is “dated.”

At what age is a bike eligible for dating?SAVVA have ruled that the cut-off date for dating is December 1980. This may change in the future but right now anything built after that date cannot be dated.

How do I go about getting my bike dated?Easy, ask me for a dating application form, fill in all the details, then hand it back to me along with two photos of the bike, one of each side, and a cheque made out to SAVVA for R120.00 I will then inspect the bike and if you haven’t managed to do the rubbings yourself I will do it for you. Once I’m satisfied that the details on the form are correct I will post it to the SAVVA Chief Dating Officer in Johannesburg for his attention. He then makes sure that there are no discrepancies and will organise a brass plaque and a certificate for you. These are then posted to me, I enter the SAVVA number in my journal, and pass them on to you. The form is self explanatory, but if there are questions you cannot answer I, or other club members will assist you. Its all quite simple.

Does it matter if my bike is not original?Not really, as long as the frame and engine are correct for the year claimed, then the other bits don’t matter too much. There are dated bikes in the club that never saw the light of day riding out of the factory all bright and shiny. They have been dated as “Specials” its common knowledge that in days gone by, many specials were used on roads or raced on the tracks. Tritons, Tribsas and Norvins were good examples, so there’s no reason not to date a bike just because two manufacturers were involved. When you think about it, how many manufacturers were involved in putting together all the old bikes, and was there actually any bike built solely by one manufacturer? Maybe the real fundis in the club could let me know.Does my bike have to be fully restored, or in running condition?

Not at all, as long as its all in one piece and can be easily identified by photos as being what you claim it is.

Is there anything else?There are a couple of things. The dating form states that you (the owner) are responsible for producing proof of the date of manufacture of the bike. Preferably this should be a Photostat copy of a page from a book, where it clearly shows the year certain engine or frame numbers were produced. It doesn’t matter if your bike has a different year for engine and frame, it will be dated as a 1953/1956 BSA or whatever” (for example). If there are no published books on the bike in question then a letter from that particular bike owners club with proof from their records will suffice. The more modern classics can quite often be easily dated by going along to the local agent who will gladly give you a letter with the proof you need from his computer records.The second thing is that the club would appreciate a donation of r10.00 to accompany your cheque for R120.00 This is to cover costs incurred by the club, so in effect the cost of dating is actually going to cost you R130.00. Quite a lot of money to some folks (me included) but if you are an active club member in club events it will soon seem to be a small price to pay when you consider the enjoyment you will get from using a dated bike.

Don’t forget that I’m allowed to examine, and issue C.O.R’s for bikes over forty years old, the only problem is that you will be issued with an “S” licence disc. This means you will only be permitted to use the bike on club related events, and not for everyday use. The bike does not have to be dated in order for a C.O.R to be carried out.

It’s an old story, but my dear wife thinks it’s a good one. She reckons I’m a lousy dating officer, I haven’t organised her a single date in the 12 odd years I’ve being doing this job, she also thinks I’d make a lousy Vice Chairman as I don’t have any vices.Happy riding.Brian (or as my old friend Barry Stead used to call me “The dating Wallah.”)

*********LIBRARY – ALAN YOUNGOur Library has started the New Year with a number of welcome contributions from the following members :-Nick Swartz Workshop manual for Honda CB900F.Bill Young Classic motorcycles

Encyclopaedia of Motorcycling.Super bikes – Road Burners to Record Breakers

(The above three have been placed in the “Browsers” shelf.)

Trixie Hall (widow of the late Robbie Hall)1952 and 1957 Motorcycling Year Books and a selection of motorcycling magazines. The magazines will be sold at our “Plums in May”.

Many Thanks to these members for their donations.

On a sad note the death of B.P.Castellani was recently noted in the Press. Older members will remember “Bepe” or “Boro” as an outstanding racer in the post-war years. He was S.A. 500cc Champion in 1950 and 1957 and invariably was scratch man in the handicap events on his Manx Norton. He will be remembered for his foot down style of cornering. There is a famous photo of him taking the leap on the back wheel over the crest of the hill in the “Bluff 150.”R.I.P Bepe and thanks for the memories.

On a lighter note is a letter from an aunt to her nephew. Pleasant reading and riding.Alan.

Dearest Pieter,

I'm writing this slow because I know that you can't read fast. We don't live where we did when you left home. Your pa read in the newspaper that almost all accidents happen within 20km of home. So we moved. I can't send you the address, because the last family who lived here took the house numbers when they moved, so they wouldn't have to change their address. This place is really nice. It even has a washing machine. I don't know that it works so well though. Last week I put in a load of Clothes and pulled the chain. We haven't seen them since. The weather isn't bad here. It rained only twice last week. The first time for four days, and thesecond time for three days. About the coat you wanted me to send you. Your Oom Frikkie said it would be too heavy to send them in the post with the buttons on, so we cut themoff and put them in the pockets. Piet locked his keys in the car yesterday. We were really worried because it took him two hours to get me and your father out.Your sister had a baby this morning but I don't know what it is yet, so I don't know if you are an aunt or an uncle. I was told that It is almost black. I think she spent too much time in the sun when she was pregnant, always helping Jonas the farmhand with the mielies. Oom Wessels fell into a whisky vat last week. Some men tried to pull him out, but he fought them off and drowned. We had him cremated. It took five days to put the fire out.Three of your friends went off a bridge in their oupa's bakkie. I always knew this thing was dangerous. Janneman was driving. He rolled down the window and swam to safety. Your other two friends were on the back. They drowned because they couldn't get the tailgate down.There isn't much more news at this time. Nothing much out of the normal has happened.Your favourite aunt Betsy (Springs)P.S. I was going to enclose R25 but I already sealed the envelope.

DID YOU KNOW – DAVE STONEAre you having aggravation with continual surface rust in your fuel tank? There is an excellent product available here in Durban, made by Ivory Industrials of Jacobs. Called “Ivory 340 White”It is a chemical and solvent resistant epoxy coating, producing a hard smooth surface when sloshed inside the tank once you have prepared the internal surface. For

all the information on how to go about it, speak to Lenny of Ivory Industrials. They are at 54, Sage Road, Jacobs. Phone 031 4613411Enhance your safety and visibility to motorists and help avoid the “Sorry I didn’t see you” scenario, riding your old “Boney” with no headlights or one that makes a candle look bright by comparison, by fitting a “Hi-Viz” headlamp cover. Compared to many headlights they are more effective in daylight especially when being approached at an angle. It could just save your “Bacon.”See For Sale

*********THE FAIREST CAPE RALLY EXPERIENCE – PIP LORENTZ

I called John to confirm the departure arrangements: be there before 5 we leave at 5:05am sharp, he says. I set my alarm for 3 to pack and to be there on time. Aubrey and Salomé were ready and waiting when I got to their house… we can’t let the team down I emphasise, so let’s get going. Assagay Garage sees Cilliers, van Niekerk and Lorentz roll in at 4:50am. Rolly, John and Alan pitch up at 5:55! We had to believe some story about the house sitter!!!

Lead by an able rider who has done the trip before, John is to set the pace and keep to the direction prepared by Aubrey, but we set off on the less obvious route by turning left out of the garage. Rolly, who was still refueling, took the obvious route and that was the last we saw of him. He was armed with John’s mobile and hadn’t been instructed on how to use it so we had no contact until Sterkfontein Dam where we were reunited. Breakfast and fuel at the Ultra City, a cuppa at Clarens, fuel and a pie at Ladybrand and into Ali North at 3:45… a long day and ready for a couple of beers under the cool of the shade in the garden of the Sondela B&B. Karoo lamb at the local pub and all fall down at 9:30.After a hearty breakfast, 8am sees us on the road again with Alan, the newly designated ride captain leading with authority from the back; the passes see him zip by and lead through the twisties. The road to De Rust is long, straight and on that occasion very hot. A cross wind keeps the levels of concentration sharp and the bikers awake. The roads are quiet and free of crazy drivers and we stick to a disciplined ride formation at an average of about 100 km.

Way into the ride, and concentration levels beginning to wane, an oncoming bakkie flashes headlights, I don’t have a problem I think as I reconfirm my speed. I proceed without taking any further precaution, pop over the brow of the hill to find cattle being herded down the road towards us… a quick wakeup call!!De Rust is a great spot. Our host at the Pink Elephant, Deon, prepares for us the tenderest and flavoursome potjie for dinner that evening. After the hot day the evening was cold and we found ourselves huddled around the potjie fire to keep warm… next time I’ll make the space for a jersey.After a good breakfast we set off for Meiringspoort lead by John Peel and his wife Trix. A beautiful Poort and well worth the extra time, mileage and the walk up to the waterfall. We lunched at Ladismith and met up with an American biker who had been in the country for 2 weeks. He was researching SA as a possible biking destination for American tourists. His tours would take in most of the SADAC region and would include any interesting tour that a local might have to offer. A good business opportunity for any enterprising SA biker! We recommended that he contact Alfie Cox, and we exchanges addresses. He, by the way, was equipped with a Garmen GPS 175 and was looking to replace his second set of tires in Durban! We reached Ceres at 4:15pm, off loaded luggage into the bungalows and took the bikes down for scrutinizing. We collected our rally notes and route instructions. C group day 2 page 2 was missing, otherwise all went off smoothly. The evening saw us all tucking into a good Kaapse braai and then, for the Natalian bikers, an early night.

Day 1 of the rally started on time and went without a hitch with 55 bikes setting off on time into perfect weather. There were 11 vintage and post vintage bikes. The oldest? You are correct, Jim… a Triumph, a 1920 belt drive, ridden by Tony Woodley of the same vintage.The route took us through the Kouwe Bokkeveld over the Theronsberg Pass, a fuel stop in Touws River, Rooihoogte Pass into the Koo valley, Burgers

Pass to Keisie to Montague for a lunch stop and an opportunity to get the gear off and to cool down! After a tasty lunch, and now 38°C as we climb back into the gear and head off for Ashton, Robertson and Worcster for fuel and a coolie, and then over the Michell’s Pass and back to Ceres; 320km is the total distance covered.The SAVVA Chairman was the guest speaker at the dinner that evening, and he started the rally the next morning. Alan and Rick started 60 and 45 seconds late respectively… talking etomush me thinks! The organizers have their first regularity within 1km of the start; just as well Alan was on a 67PS racing machine (picture), fitted with twin Dell’Orto carbs all

working overtime on his German R90S. Rick took it nice and cool and enjoyed the lower temperatures of another excellent day on the road, as his results later indicate. After Michell’s Pass, the Nuwekloof Pass then Tulbagh, Hermon, the Riebeek Kasteel, Bothmanskloof Pass, and a tea stop in Malmsbury, lunch at Simondium, the 85 km to Worcester sees a regularity section on either side of the du Toits Kloof Pass; a fantastic experience on a motorbike. Distance covered 280 km.

Prizegiving was held in the NGK saal, with wine flowing nogal. The achievers were honoured and the rest collected their results, gifts and finishing medallions.

Final results:1 Group B: Kevin Robertson VMC Honda 1965 74 points2 B: Stuart Fergusson VMC BMW 1960 873 A: Alan Birch CVMC Norton 193095

CMCN results:1 17 B: Grant Vacy-Lyle BMW 1960 2342 18 C: Aubrey & Salome Honda 1976 2373 22 B: Alan Crookes BMW 1974 3154 25 C: John le Fevre BMW 1975 3735 26 B: Gerald Ogilvie Velocette 1958 3956 29 B: Eric Pullon NM 1968 4467 30 C: Pip Lorentz BMW 1977 4488 32 C: Rolly Hill BMW 1962 4779 35 B: Richard Sawkins BMW 1970 5241039 B: Rick Hoekstra BMW 1968 599

Non Finishers:11 in all, and of interest:

Garry Brown (picture), on his 1936 Sunbeam; I’m told a screw loose in the head?? Bad luck mate, we wish you a speedy rebuild.2 BSA’s, no doubt fitted with Triumph spares, hey Jim.2 Truimphs fitted with BSA spares.2 BMW; they must have scratched!

2 AJS’s no comment1 Honda (1 of 3!) 1 Motosache, I thought that the Swiss made watches.

Rolly John and Alan pulled out for Durbs at 6:20 on Sunday morning; tough guys. Garry and Gerald drove off in the comfort of their BMW towing their classics, at 8ish. With my 7 year old grandson, Luke, (picture) sitting confidently under a large helmet kindly loaned by Garry, we

set off for Durbanville, over Michell’s Pass, under the overhanging rock at the entrance to the Bainsekloof Pass, and onto a narrow road lined with huge white painted boulders, and surrounded by the craggy and rocky landscape of the Slanghoekberg. Meanwhile Aubrey, Salomé, Rick and Rea departed to enjoy their respective holidays in the Cape, and I flew back to Durban.Back to the Cape on the 20th to ready myself for the return trip. I met up with Aubrey and Salomé on their 1976 Honda Goldwing at 6:30 on Friday the 21st at the Strand filling station on the N2. We eagerly started our return trip, having had the break, and headed for Swellendam; Aubrey’s birthplace and a town where Salomé spent happy times during her youth. From there to Suurbraak, a quaint old missionary hamlet nestling in a green valley at the foot of Langerberg’s Tradous Pass (Koi San word meaning “The path of the Women”). The pass is spectacular and well worth visiting if you give yourself the time to meander along its way. Huisrivier Pass, Calitzdorp, Oudshoorn and then De Rust for a sandwich lunch and a cup of good old SAR&H coffee, with Deon. Ghwarriepoort, Buyspoort, Perdepoort, over the Groot Rivier and the heavens opened, and down came the rains to quench the Karoo and its creatures. How wonderful to experience the gamut of colours from the purples of the distant mountains, white shafts of sunlight through to the ochre’s of the Karoo expanse, and all this, accompanied by the smell of the dust-filled moisture in the air, which we all know so well. Still in the rain we meander through Kaapse Poortjie, Munnikspoort and then in to Graaff-Rienet, where the rain and we stop for the night.Gardner and Hazel, retired farmers from Nieu-Bethesda, were our hosts for the evening accommodating us in their most comfortable house in Somerset Road where they run a B&B. Friday evening in Graaff-Rienet is when the local gentry head for the Gentleman’s Club, founded in 1875. We were cracked the nod and accepted Gardiner’s invitation for an hydraulic sandwich at the club. After a couple of these we learnt that at the centenary celebrations an invitation was extended to the women folk for the first time, and at that occasion free drinks were served. Another first. At a subsequent all male committee meeting it was suggested that women should be invited every 200 years, but free drinks should be served biannually; the motion was passed. The Club, by-the-way, now has women members, women committee members, and the next club chairman is likely to be a women! After much merriment we left the Club for the Coral Tree restaurant, to be treated to their delicious kudu schnitzel. Don’t miss this stop, guys (…and dolls). While in the area a visit to the Valley of Desolation and Nieu-Bethesda, which we did not do, is apparently a must do, and worth planning into the next trip.6am saw Aubrey and I cleaning the pipes, and carrying out a quick once-over of our trusty machines, and at 8, on the road again in cool overcast conditions. Naudéberg Pass and the weather looks ominous, and once again towering black clouds laden with water bear down on us from the port side, brushing the dry Karoo sands with moisture as they pass. Entering this little lot was not unlike standing in the shower clad in waterproofs... it was heavy and cool, and it nourished the plants that seemed to spring into life as we passed; it was with us all the way to Toms Place, where we topped up our tanks. Thus far the road conditions were good and the drivers were courteous and considerate. Bloem, Winberg and then into Senekal for a night stopover with the local magistrate (by choice… Aubrey’s cousin). Chris and Ann looked after us well, accommodating us luxuriously in their large and very comfortable home. Breakfast the next morning was no mean meal. We had boerewors, we had ribbertjies, we had pap en tamatie sous, we had roereier, and we had melktert. I increased the spring tension before our 11:30 start on our final leg to Durban via Bethlehem and Clarens. Conditions were good, no wind and no sign of rain and the temp at the time of

departure, 30°C, thus far the weatherman was right, so we had no reason to doubt the fine weather predicted for the final leg of the trip. Well you guessed right; a cloud burst in Clarens which saw us through to the Golden Gate NP, and a freshly overturned taxi on the Oliviershoek Pass, which slipped off the road on a muddy overlay on the tarred road, added to our experiences.Our final top up was at the filling station near the Escourt off ramp on the N3, and at this point Aubrey and Salomé and I parted; we were running late and I had to get back. 140 felt comfortable and that is where I sat until: the heavens broke yet again, and this time huge drops and lots of them. I had the gear on so no need to stop, but slowed down to about 100, put more pressure on the pegs and relaxed on the steering; she felt fine and was holding the road comfortably. A couple of cars passed before it was time for me to overtake a maximum length rig on a straight section of the freeway; road ahead was clear in the fast lane and nothing behind. In overtaking, I stuck well to the right to miss the spray, lifted the needles, and suddenly, my visibility was zero. I had two options: either slow down and think again or speed up and get out of this predicament. I chose the latter and let the bike do the work in the knowledge that the road ahead was clear. Seconds rushed by and a sudden panic overcame my senses as I whipped my visor, to no avail. The fogging was on the inside and impossible for me to clear given the predicament that I was in. Mindful of the forces of the two gyroscopes spinning under me, I left the bike to its own devises, keeping my weight central and a feather touch on the bars. I could hear the roar of the engine getting louder, my nostrils filled with water vapour heated by the machinery of the rig and laden with the resin of heated break linings and exhaust gasses, and then, as suddenly as the screen had misted, it cleared to reveal a clear road ahead, and in answer to my prayers I passed the truck.With the Notties twisties ahead the weather cleared, giving me the pleasure of leaning into the bends on a freshly cleaned and, by now, dry road. Escourt to Mt Edgecombe took 1 hour 35 minutes and ended a most enjoyable trip and experience at 5pm on Sunday evening.To be repeated again? Yes, most definitely. Saw? No.

*********THIS AND THATOn Sick Parade are Dave Turnbull, Mike Butler, Gus Heinze, Badie Badenhorst, Doug Page, Len Palmer, Bryan Hinks and Jean Fauld’s mom, Mary Cowan. My apologies to any sick member or sick relative whom I have not mentioned. If so please let me know. Meanwhile we’ll say prayers and hold thumbs for all our friends and club members who are not well.

*********Those members who were not at our A.G.M in November are by now no doubt aware that the entire Committee from Chairman down to the last officer whose name is on the inside cover of Shop Torque have agreed to serve for yet another year. Thank you guys and dolls. One change is Geoff Wellbeloved and Derek Pirie swapping portfolios. Don’t worry Geoff, if Derek manages without you I’ll find many things for you to do on the Committee.Jim

*********The parking area adjacent to the Clubhouse i.e. between the clubhouse and the stone (Gabion) wall is termed the Troo Bloo Park and as such is for bikes not younger than 1980. In other words what we and SAVVA presently regard as Classics. If and when that area is full or over-crowded then the area behind the clubhouse is also for the Classics.The area opposite the front of the clubhouse is the Sidecar Park, and is for sidecars of any

era. The area on the other side of the clubhouse i.e. between the clubhouse and the long container is termed the Paddy field and this is where most of the modern bikes park - especially of course those of Japanese origin! The parking area opposite the far end of the long container is jokingly termed the “Pig Pen” and is for (you guessed it) Harley Davidson’s.Naturally there is no policing of the “Paddyfield” or the “Pig Pen” – these names are attributed in jest. But we do request that moderns i.e. those younger than 1980 do not park in the Troo Bloo areas. And please remember that the long container is where jackets and helmets are to be left – there are special hooks for such purpose.Many thanks for your co-operation.Jim

*********FOR SALE

1964 Honda CA77 305cc Super sport. R3500 o.n.o. Phone Mrs Sabino 031 7640390

1970 Suzuki T350 Rebel, complete. R2000 Phone Alan 072 1946968

1954/61 Triton Racing bike plus spares. As shown in S.A.Bike magazine September 2003. R60,000 negotiable. Phone Alan 072 1946968

1957 Triumph Cub. Fully restored plus spares. Offers to Mike 039 6821553/4

1952 Triumph Tiger 100. Sprung hub. Fair condition. Good runner. R5000 Phone Brian Elam 031 7051954 or 083 7971954

Leather jacket size 44. R800 Phone Raymond Meyer 031 4643954

3.50 x 19 inch Dunlop Universal tyre, nearly new. 6mm Tread depth. What offers Phone Raymond Meyer 031 4643954

1930/50 Panther. Job lot. R8500 Phone Hans Roelofsen 082 4140910

1930 Scott Flying Squirrel. SAVVA dated. Many spares. Completed 4 D.J’s. Offers around R40,000 Phone Glynn Le Roux 013 2434458 or 082 9078708

Ducati 600 Pantah NCR Racer. NCR Aluminium tank. Ducati SS Fairing, single seat, 2 into 1 exhaust, racing P cams, heads gas flowed and ported. Original tank and bodywork included Phone Anton 082 5406767

1974 Moto Morini 350cc. In need of some cosmetics but mechanically sound R5000 Phone Clive Rossiter 031 5682126 or 072 2240609

1950 Ariel 350cc. Only two previous owners. Phone Doug Cookson 278 26300020

1980 BMW R45. Ideal Classic Rally bike in V.G.C. R10,000 Phone Barry Wicks 033 3304630 or 082 7444465

1988 BMW R65. 51700 km. V.G.C. Daily use – well looked after. R12,000 Phone Danie Jacobs 083 2748711

1955/6 Triumph Cub 200cc in running condition overhauled,re-wired,re-sprayed. R8000Phone 021 7881798

1969 Triumph T100c Trophy 650cc twin. Matching engine and frame numbers. Completely rebuilt. Offers around R15000 Phone Malcolm Ball 031 7634665

Hi-Viz Headlamp Covers – could save your life – even if your headlamp lights are dim or not working. R25 each. Phone Dave Stone 031 564 5506 or see Dave or Aubrey at the club.1978 Yamaha SR 500 Fully rebuilt and in V.G.C. R15,000 Phone Stan 031 4627668 or 083 6280514

1979 Honda 750 50H.C Supersport Original Yellow with mini fairing. SAVVA dated R7000Phone Peter 031 7642499

N.B. In the January 2004 Kick Start magazine which is available at our Reading table there are six DJ bikes for sale and five Classics. There are quite a few “Parts for sale” and “Parts Wanted.” various “Bikes Wanted” including DJ bikes and some “Exchanges.”

*******WANTED1912 Royal Enfield V twin spares – wheels, back mudguard, 2 speed gears and pedals.

1929 AJS 350cc Head and barrel, front mudguard, Burman gearbox.

1951 500cc twin model 7 Norton, back mudguard, fibre generator gear

Any book or pictures of old bikes, DJ Races, programs, paper cuttings, photos, albums or any information or racing Manuals of any motorcycles before 1939.Contact Robin Inggs 031 4648529

Honda 90cc 4 stroke motor – complete or parts. Phone Jim 031 4662108

Petrol tank for BSA C11 Please phone Harry at 082 3501874 if you can assist.*******

SERVICESPlease support our advertisers in this issue of Shop torque – their services are highly recommended.

Also recommended are :-Classic Motorcycles for repairs and rebuilds of all motorcycles. Phone Duncan Day 031 4677746 or 083 7760923

Dee-Zigns for signs, decals and illuminated signs. Phone Reg or Dion 031 7660082

BMW and BSA rubber fittings as listed in our June/July 2003 Shop Torque are available from Bill Speight 082 777 5556

*********SOUND OFF.Small boy staring at several bikes covered in dust and grime and in various stages of disrepair in his dad’s garage says to his mom:“Mom, what happens to bikes when they are broken like these?”“Someone sells them to your dad” she replies.

Anyway carry on collecting, guys and remember that our Plums in May jumble sale is not far off.AND REMEMBER TO PLEASE PAY YOUR SUBS.Going through a tough time? Then speak to me or Ron or Bob.Jim

*****

CALENDAR OF EVENTS.N.B. Details of most scheduled events are to be found elsewhere in Shop torque.

FEBRUARY 2004

Saturday 7th Main Meeting 12h30 Display bikes up to 1936 inclusive competing

for our Golden Years Trophy. SAVVA dating IS applicable however

non-dated bikes may also be displayed..

Sunday 8th Breakfast Run to Micro light Club at Cato Ridge leaving from

clubhouse at 07h30 and heading for the Engen Service station at

Kloof. NB . DJ Competitors are urged to use this run as a test of

their bikes. Suitable speeds will be ridden.

Wednesday11th Committee Meeting 19h30

Saturday 14th WORK PARTY AT CLUBHOUSE 09h30 PLEASE COME AND

HELP!

Saturday 21st Social Meeting 12h30

Friday 27th Month end Braai 18h30 Please come and enjoy an evening in

good company.

MARCH 2004

Wednesday 3rd Race Meeting 19h30

Saturday 6th Main meeting 12h30.”Day of the Rising Sun.” All oriental

bikes to be on display – Japanese,Chinese,etc SAVVA DATING IS

NOT APPLICABLE. No voting – free Lucky draw.

Wednesday 10th Committee Meeting 19h30

Sunday 14th Racing at Idube – refer enquiries to Geoff Isacks or Bob West

Wednesday 17th Deadline for Shop torque News, Ads etc

Saturday 20th Midlands Meeting 12H30 VSCC clubhouse Oribi PMB

Saturday 20th Social Meeting 12h30

Sunday 21st Mystery Breakfast Run. Departs Clubhouse 07h30 heading for

the Engen

Service Station, Kloof then on to the Red Zebra.

Friday 26th Month end Braai 18h30

Wednesday 31st Race meeting 19h30

The Annual D.J.Commemorative Run this year known as the 2004 Trilogy DJ Motorcycle

Run starts at 06h00 on Friday 5th March leaving from the Sanlam Centre, Glenugie Road,

Pinetown.

Traditionally the Veteran Car Club at Kloof hosts a Social evening for Competitors and

Officials on the preceding Wednesday evening which would be on Wednesday 3rd March.

APRIL 2004.

Saturday 3rd Racing at Gateway – refer enquiries to Geoff Isacks or Bob

West

Saturday 3rd Main Meeting 12h30 N.B. NOTE WELL THE DATE!

“Bavarian Motor Werke” Day – best of the BMW’s. Any era –

dating NOT REQUIRED. No Voting, Free lucky Draw..

Sunday 11th Racing at Masons Mill

Wednesday 14th Committee Meeting 19h30

Saturday 17th Social Meeting 12h30

Sunday 18th Breakfast Run leaves clubhouse 07h30 heading for Engen

Service Station

Kloof. Venue to be announced at Main Meeting on Saturday 3rd.

Friday 30th Month end Braai 18h30