Real world rides, real world riders

A classic view

Too many other publications either focus too much on a specific area or aim very low in the standard of journalism or reportage. The simple fact of so much of what you print being relevant in the real world of expensive fuel and third world road maintenance being genuinely entertaining is most welcome.

Maynard Hershon certainly seemed to exercise Mr Hendricks. I remain to be convinced that this was his intention. The usual thrust of Mr H's column seems to be to provoke thought, rather than to simply provoke. Many people across the broad spread of the population do not approve of noisy exhausts. Witness the negative response to the passage of some youthful blade in his tiny hatchback with a dustbin pipe on the back. With a bike, it can often depend where you are and how you conduct yourself, whether you attract a negative reception.

Are motorcycles over complex? Horses for courses. I admit that very advanced machines can be intimidating, certainly beyond the remit of the home mechanic for all but the most basic of tasks. Fair enough, I don't want to spend my weekends on the underside of the bike, just so I can get to work on it in the week. I got that out of my system 30 years ago. So Honda and BMW are punting out machines with sophisticated computer hardware, so are Ducati. I own a Ducati and I'm planning to buy another next year. The decision is based on factors other than the electronic trickery that is built in. It is simply the machine that appeals to me the most.  To be honest, I doubt very much that if the BSA Bantam were to be re-launched in the near future, faithful to it's late 40s roots, then I suspect the sales might be disappointing. Six volt electrics and plunger suspension are not the kit for the modern road. I'm not in the market for a BMW or a VFR 1200, because I don't think I'd enjoy owning one. I equally understand why some riders would not want a Ducati. You want basic? Buy a classic!

Many thanks for providing balanced, thoughtful entertainment.

Andy McFarlane
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