Hello Bri, How are things got the Claud USWB tandem going yet? I have been having a serious think over my bikes, you know I have all my father-in-Laws stuff plus my Fathers stuff now, there is no room left here at all! Plus you can only ride one bike so it seems pointless hanging on to it all but what do you diss? I am going to keep the Hetchins, Bates, Galibier, Higgins trike and the Gate plus the Raysport Mexinelli. Regarding the others definitely the Ephgrave and the RRA which are both in original paint and of course the Purves although it's a little bit on the big side for me. Now that leaves and are you ready for this: Hobbs 52 tandem trike, Ken Bird (Philbrook) tandem, ROH 39 Silver Meteor tandem, Langsett 56 Tour of Britain, Langsett 1936, 48 Macleans with c/s stiffeners, 39 Russ, Granby 39, Don Farrell track 62, 47 Higgins, Hurlow special track, Claud Buccaneer, Claud International Sprint, Holdsworth Hurlow Tour of Britain 52, Rensch Champion du Monde. Think that's all! Where the hell do you make the cut? Trouble is they all ride really well except for the Hetchins which just look special not like that great straight MB you own, that's not absolutely true but you know what I mean just nice rideable bikes nothing out of the ordinary. Would welcome any suggestions and if you need anything let me know there is so much stuff. Went on a VCC ride near here back in the Autumn there was a chap on a Bates BAR great Argos re-enamel but he had kitted it all out with early 80's kit and I thought what a great idea best of both, zenith of frame building and excellent reliable equipment especially if you are using Suntour or Dura Ace. Didn't wash well with some of the VCC but he was strong and who wants to ride some of that old kit if you are doing loads of miles. Perhaps I might do this its an idea. Went pass Rotrax the other day looks like they are finally closing, notices plastered all over the windows. Time was in the 60's in London and everyone was riding them how things change. Finally how abot meeting up for a light ale before Christmas let me know your rostered nights off. ATB Mickey B. PS Get hold of a copy of Johnny Gingers Last Ride for Christmas its a great read.
Thats all for now. Keep those wheels spinning, in your memories if not still on the road. Be lucky Mick Butler Huntingdon UK.