PUB TALK

The tail end of 2017 saw PUB grappling Burman gearbox nightmares, which may be a topic for another time. She also attended Motorcycle Live, where a variety of actual old machinery was on show, such as the original SS80 displayed on the Brough Superior stand alongside their new V-twins. Also there, answering the clarion call from (older) RC readers for something light, powerful enough for main road (or even motorway) traffic, and with an electric start were a range of such machines.

Three of the Japanese big four had such bikes on offer (Suzuki persist in competing with a 24bhp 250), with Kawasaki having upped theirs to 400cc and 44bhp to stay ahead of the Yamaha MT03 320cc with its ‘mere’ 42bhp. Herald have now joined MASH and SWM with Chinese 400cc XBR derived singles offering just shy of 30bhp. All of the foregoing bikes come in between 300 and 380lbs, and have been updated with ABS and fuel injection where necessary to pass 2018 regulations (see RC142, February 2016 for more details, albeit of the 2016 versions).

Another traditionally styled newcomer is the Royal Enfield 650cc single ohc twin, looking suitably like a traditional pushrod type, and available as the Continental GT or Interceptor. The Continental GT seat / footrest positioning suited PUB best, but unfortunately, this does come in at 202kg (444lbs – only a little less than the PUB Vincent). However it offers a desirable mix of traditional looks and riding position, enough power (an A2 licence compatible 47bhp) and the all-important electric start for BOFs. It remains to be seen how initial roadtests fare, but for many who are not quite as weak and feeble as PUB, one of this pair