Lulu Buy | My Lulu | Community | Help Log In | View Cart
Improving Classic Motorcycles

Improving Classic MotorcyclesImproving Classic Motorcycles (book)

Print: $25.78

Improving Classic Motorcycles is a collection of modifications developed by the author over 30 years of riding BSA singles and Triumph twins. It is never before seen material with something for every classic bike rider. A must have on your bookshelf.

32,000 words, 34 diagrams.

See the review at the RealClassic website (link opens in a new window)
>>> Order direct from the author and save £2.75 on UK P&P. See foot of page for details <<<

This book is not a marque history, workshop manual or restoration guide. It is a collection of modifications, tips, tricks and sound advice gained through 30 years of year round riding. The modifications featured in Improving Classic Motorcycles were developed for the author's bikes (shown left) but most are applicable to many other makes and models and all can be carried out in the home workshop. Design flaws, some never before made public are discussed and solutions given. Possibly even the motorcycle factories themselves were unaware of them. The results are real improvements in performance, reliability and safety.

  • How to make single leading shoe brakes provide real stopping power. Almost all sls brakes were designed without an understanding of an inherent fundamental flaw. The simplest mod costs nothing and can take less than an hour and requires no specialist tools or skills.

  • How to very simply greatly improve the reliability and performance of your bike's electrical system. Have a headlamp as bright as a modern car, extend your battery life and make blown bulbs a thing of the past.

  • How to get the best from your ignition system whether electronic or contact breaker.

  • A detailed look at Concentric mark 1 carburettors to help ensure you are using the right components.

  • Is your bike being held back by a bad silencer? Baffle design is key to good performance. See the preview for an example of a good one, buy the book to find out what works, what doesn't and why. Two more full-page, dimensioned silencers are included in the book with descriptions and performance test results of these and several others.

  • A step by step guide to stripping, repairing and calibrating magnetic speedometers and tachometers. You can do this at home. No specialist tools required, just a cycle computer.

  • Modifications to cylinder heads and rockerboxes to improve longevity and stop oil leaks.

  • Plus mods and advice on clutches, gearboxes, tyres, steering head bearings and many other topics.

Everyone who rides a classic bike will find this an interesting and thought provoking read. Almost all will be able to use at least one of the mods and enjoy happier riding as a result.

Also now reviewed and given the thumbs up by the BSA owners and Triumph owners club magazines and BMF Rider magazine.

About the Author

Intending to follow a career in engineering, Graham Blighe graduated with a BSc in Mechanical Engineering in 1983. But he was bitten by the computer bug while working for IBM. He went on to spend many years writing computer games across all formats ranging from 8 bit home computers up to Playstation 2, creating a chart topper along the way. His interest in engineering and motorcycles in particular was not forgotten as he constantly strove to improve his bikes and make them as usable as their modern counterparts. He has been a member of the British Motorcyclists Federation for 25 years and the VMCC for 5 years.



UK customers can order direct from the author. Send your name, address and cheque or postal order for £15.95 payable to Graham Blighe to

Improving Classic Motorcycles
PO Box 381
SOUTHAMPTON
SO32 2YF

Note only available to the UK. If outside the UK please order using the Add Print to Cart button above. When ordering direct from the author please address all enquiries through the above PO Box or by e-mail to ICMotorcycles@talktalk.net. Do not send enquiries to lulu.com unless your order is made via the Add Print to Cart button. You can also pay by Paypal - e-mail ICMotorcycles@talktalk.net for details.