If you want to know how it went, read on:
I travelled 2 hours each way to see the bike, a 1-owner-from-new 1977 R100RS, had many desirable modifications: Blueprinted engine; twin plugged; with 40mm Dellorto carbs; a prototype Boyer Bransden electronic ignition (runs of crankshaft not camshaft) and a deep sump. Fitted with a Heinrich tank, option of ¾ and dual seat, with front fork brace and San Jose braced swingarm. Polished Lester wheels.
The bike’s condition was excellent unrestored; the custom paintjob is still very presentable and needed no work. However, the fork seals looked like they needed replacing soon and the rear bevel seal leak was evident with oil over the final drive unit and swingarm. But there were no engine oil leaks.
I was happy enough so far, and took the bike for a short test-ride. Immediately I was aware of a low-speed steering issue; probably down to the restricted movement of the forks in the fairing bellow seals and the gaitors causing what felt like the steering damper full-on. But it was in position ‘0’. I cautiously opened the throttle to see how it progressed in the 30mph limit. Gratifyingly, the issue subsided, but returned again at slow speed, making a right turn at a mini-roundabout difficult. Out in the short section of de-restricted road a mismatch of front and rear suspension was apparent; harsh, bouncy front with a soft, overdamped rear. I was expecting to feel more torque and power on acceleration. On the plus side the engine was smooth, lacked any worrying noises, and the gearchange was very smooth (for a non-kinetic box). As I pulled in I think the decision was apparent on my face! I considered the test-drive a fail (due to low-speed handling and the suspension mismatch).
If the bike was cheaper (that is, the seller compromising the price due to the repair work), I would have been happy to sort out the issues myself (or pay someone to do it) but the seller was asking top-dollar and, at the time, unwilling to drop. The leaks and the test-ride combined to reduce my enthusiasm; I declined to get into an offer/counter-offer situation. I thanked the owner for his time and came home.
If anyone is interested in contacting the owner let me know. It doesn't feel right to link to his advert here.
