Classic Dirt Bike

IN BALANCE Waiting in a section-queue during a trial is a great way to interact with a few fellow riders as we all watch some hapless victim negotiate the obstacles ahead. You know how it is and we’ve all done it… the theatrical breath-sucking followed by the knowledgeable nod as the rider on trial in the section gets caught up in the terrain and we pass a remark along the lines of “well, I’d have gone the other side of the rock…” or the “what’s he gone up there for? Much easier to the right/left/straight on…” As well as passing comment on the abilities of riders, section-queues are also places of discussion on lots of things and in a queue of riders on modern bikes in our charity trial on…

For the best in off-road action this summer head for the stunning setting of Drumlanrig Castle on May 20-21 when the Galloway MCC will present the Scottish Grand National 2023 off-road festival. Where else are you going to get a scramble and a trial with a stately home as a backdrop other than in Dumfries and Galloway? What a setting it is and what a track it is too. The club lays out a great track which suits both riders who want to race and spectators who want to watch them race. Maybe you’re more of a feet-up rider and trials riding is your thing? If so then you’ll not be disappointed as there are two days of trials action too. Presiding over this spectacular weekend are two legends from…

Looking for a classic to race or trial or enduro? Have a glance at Charterhouse. The auction house is holding a couple of sales later this year and will have bikes such as this 1973 Bultaco Pursang going under the hammer. A competitive machine in the Midlands during the 1980s classic scene, it was last raced in 1995. The bike has had some work done but will need recommissioning before being raced. Charterhouse auctions are on June 29 and October 5 at the company’s Long Street salerooms, Sherborne, Dorset DT9 3BS. Go to www.charterhouse-auction.com for more details.…

DIRT NEWS It’s fitting the Hackney speedway team has a celebration at Paradise Wildlife Park on May 13 and not just because its nickname is The Hawks. Paradise Wildlife Park was founded by former Hawks rider Peter Sampson after he retired from the sport. The park is not only one of the UK’s best wildlife attractions but also the site of the Speedway Museum which is where the World Speedway Riders’ Association will host Hackney Day. Finding Paradise Wildlife Park is quite easy, it’s in Broxbourne, Hertfordshire. An invitation to attend has been sent to all surviving Hackney riders and already more than 30 have said they will be present, including three of the team’s Scandinavian stars – Bengt Jansson, Bo Petersen and Jens Rasmussen. The chief guest will, not…

Not only is Golden Valley Classic MCC’s Gerry Holdstock Two Day Trial a cracking event – CDB has been there a time or two – but it is a great social gathering too. For 2023 it is on July 1-2 and set in Cowcombe Woods near Chalford, Gloucestershire. The club will accept entries for either one or both days and there are classes for all twinshock and British bikes plus sidecars of all eras, be they twinshock, modern or British. Sections are laid out over four separate routes and there will be a course for all abilities. Camping is available at the event from Friday night with entertainment, bar and food on Saturday evening. Entries will be open soon for the event so keep an eye out on the club’s…

Although Greeves motorcycle production may have ceased in 1976, interest and indeed passion for the marque has never diminished. Enthusiasts for Greeves fall into two basic categories. One group is interested in the history of Greeves, the various models manufactured or maybe they want to own, restore, exhibit and ride a true classic motorcycle. In 1984 a small group of Greeves enthusiasts, mainly from the Southend, Essex area got together and formed the Greeves Riders Association. This single-make club has gone from very small beginnings to a major influence within the classic motorcycle scene with more than 600 members. The other group of enthusiasts are interested in what most Greeves motorcycles were designed to do, compete and race. With Greeves machines covering a 20-year development programme three classes were decided…