Motorcycle safety in 1965

[joeswamp]

This film rules on several levels. Note that this was before turn signals, so all signaling was done by hand -- the main character often uses his throttle hand. I think that's because he was putting around on a Matchless single with a weak throttle return spring.

Note parked bubble car at ~3:00.

I'd like to see the sequel of this film where Tom's friend upgrades to a Hayabusa.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aLAVx19vOZw

[caddydaddy]

I'd like to see the sequel of this film where Tom's friend upgrades to a Hayabusa.

The original squid!

[spydah]

Wow, I learned something new today. I'll be sure to stay "well to the left" from now on.

[mikeb]

British bikes starting fist kick.

[tdiloren]

This video combined with this one http://www.nestreetriders.com/forum/...it-safety.html would make an entertaining TD video.

[csmutty]

They sound like lawnmowers hahaha.

[Ray-Ray]

Ummm..... yeah.... Thank god for mirrors and turn signals these days .

[markbvt]

It's a shame Tom's buddy wrecked his Triumph. I would have offered to take it off his hands when he upgrades to a Hayabusa.

By the way, British bikes are fully capable of starting on the first kick... provided the owner is a good mechanic.

--mark

[Evil_Weasel]

By the way, British bikes are fully capable of starting on the first kick... provided the owner is a good mechanic.

--mark

...and there are no witnesses

[stoinkythepig]

This film rules on several levels. Note that this was before turn signals, so all signaling was done by hand -- the main character often uses his throttle hand. I think that's because he was putting around on a Matchless single with a weak throttle return spring.

You sure it's not because the throttle is on the left?

[joeswamp]

The only mainstream motorcycle with a left hand throttle I know of is Indian, and I think they ended that in the 50's. I'm about 99.99% sure Matchless had conventional hand controls.

Note, however, that this is before foot controls were standardized to US/German standards and so the gearchange is on the right, rear brake is on the left. The original late 50's Harley Sportsters were like this as this configuration was associated with a "sporting" machine. Never did understand why the Japanese machines mostly used left foot shift from the start.

[Rambunctous]

Nice post. I enjoyed it very much.

[whynot]

Great film, thanks. Noticed the bubble car/3-wheeler, anyone know what make it is? I used to ride with split-lens goggles like that. Bunch of us used to get all our gear from Lewis Leathers in London, not total affectation, is was good gear.

Here's another first-kick Britbike:

[Paul_E_D]

Lol! Plus, you get all the babes if you ride safe! Tom's friend was having more fun, even after the accident...

[markbvt]

--mark

[Degsy]

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HKEuzxC4eGc

another one. repost but a goodie

[whynot]

Thanks, Mark. Candy paint was re-done last year. You know the saying, "Keep Wakefield green, bring money ... to Don Hutchinson." haha

[Pestilence]

another one. repost but a goodie

Friend of mine has one of these.. thing is a beast and one of the smoothest riding big bikes I've ridden.