21 replies to this topic

[sparks2]

Point taken.
I'll measure what mine are these days

[Carl Ekblom]

Ronald, on 12 November 2010 - 06:32 PM, said:

Hi. My name is Ron Goodfellow and I designed and built the Saracen motorcyles in the late sixties. We built about three hundred in all of various types most of them being exported to the USA. We also exported to France and Sweden. Frank Underwood and I started the company which grew from a hobby and a lot of enthusiasm. The original prototype was a BSA bantam engined version but we could not acquire British engines and opted for the Sachs motor, initially the Iron engine but later the aluminium engine. We also built a few Triumph tiger cubs, I know one is still going. We also designed a spine framed 100cc Hodaka engined trail bike. I can attach a few photographs.
My daughter found this web site and it is ironic that only this week I have finished rebuilding one of the trials bikes with alloy motor and reed valve, amazing improvement. I still enjoy my motorcycling mostly touring but have competed in pre 65 trials until fairly recently on a 350cc enfield/saracen special. I am unable at the moment to include the photographs but as soon as I figure it out I will post them. Feet up!! If anyone wants to get in touch my Email address is rongoodfellow@gmail.com

Hello

When I was 16 I in 1973 I bought a Saracen 125 with the Sachs engine. I bought it from mr Lars Ingvarsson in Västerås, Sweden and as far as I can remember he was the first owner and I think he imported it from UK (Mr Goodfellow?). I rode it for about one year and then exchanged it for a Montesa Cota 123. Well, I don´t think the Montesa improved my riding at all. The 20/17 inch Pirellis made the sections quite challenging. Your Saracen with proper Dunlop Trials Universal 21/18 inch tires definitely gave more grip and the whole bike felt more stable and predictable.

Carl

[D. Sileo]

CONGRAT'S RON....I own one of your amazing machines. Told me years to find a perfect example..I have it in line next to my honda's..

Edited by D. Sileo, 08 July 2011 - 08:27 PM.

[Martin Belair]

D. Sileo, on 08 July 2011 - 08:22 PM, said:

CONGRAT'S RON....I own one of your amazing machines. Told me years to find a perfect example..I have it in line next to my honda's..

It's about time you got a proper bike Sileo. I sent you a PM. Glad to see you back.

[D. Sileo]

Martin Belair, on 11 July 2011 - 05:36 PM, said:

It's about time you got a proper bike Sileo. I sent you a PM. Glad to see you back.

A proper bike indeed Martin. This one is the most fun to ride and you know i have a few really nice old bikes.

[mrpbody44]

Getting around to finishing my Saracen. The forks that came with the bike seem to be from a Sprite 125 MX. What forks came with the early iron barreled bikes?

[Ducman]

mrpbody44, on 20 July 2011 - 05:39 PM, said:

Getting around to finishing my Saracen. The forks that came with the bike seem to be from a Sprite 125 MX. What forks came with the early iron barreled bikes?

MP forks(Metal Profile)

Chrs:Mike