mike harvey

The tyres on my Fantic 200 are totally shot and need replacing. I called into my local motorcycle tyre place and they told me neither Pirelli or Michelin makes a tubed type tyre any longer. When I asked what I could do since I have tubed type rims (Akront), all I got was a blank expression and a shrug of the shoulders. Thanks lads! Is it possible to run a tube inside a tubeless tyre? Please advise.

The rear shocks on my Fantic FM350 have lost all their damping but the springs seem OK. Do I attempt to rebuild or replace? What suppliers are there in the UK and how much should I expect to pay? Thanks.

I don't know too much about Montesas, but I think a dowty washer is what you need. It is a steel washer with a rubber lip seal bonded to the inside of it. The rubber stands slightly proud of the steel and gives a good seal even if the surface isn't completely smooth. They might be known as something else in the US, but if you go to a bearing & seal stockist, they should be able to help you. Also worth checking that any breather pipe or valve is good and clear in case the 'box is pressurising slightly. Good luck and a Happy New Year, Mike.

Yeah, Ebay was my first port of call. Bu**er me if the first twin shocker I spotted wasn't a CMT310!. As we all know, they're only marginally less commom than a Mondeo, but alas, this one was an '84, with the big 'A' sticker on the tank. I know I'll most likely never see it again, but it's good to know you guys sympathise or have been there yourselves. Thanks.

Last week some toerag pinched my Armstrong CMT310 from my house in Derby. I've been totally underwhelmed by the response from the police (Nil). Still, I suppose it's my fault for owning a trials bike in the first place. It was road registered, but had no lights, though I guess the number plate will be long gone. I know it's not the greatest trials bike ever built, but I liked it and I'm mighty ticked off. There are numerous identifying features, so if anyone is offered one, perhaps you'd be so kind as to give me a call before parting with your hard earned. My number is 07989 592796. Thanks, Mike.

Yes the plug was in it. I'd kinda resigned myself to an engine rebuild. Does anyone know what type of plating it is and where to get it redone (Ideally in the East Midlands). I'll try Bob Wright for the piston, thanks to you all for your help so far. Mike.

I've got an Armstrong CMT310 with the HIRO engine. I bought a photocopied manual from Sammy Miller which is little more than useless, I was expecting a proper workshop manual with technical info. The bike starts from cold after a few kicks and will tick over etc and starts first kick when warm, but seems to have very little compression for a 310cc single- I can turn the engine over by spinning the flywheel with my hand- surely that can't be right? I understand the spares situation for these engines is fairly hopeless. Has anyone else overcome this situation? Is there a piston that will fit from another engine? Does the cylinder have a steel liner insert or is it a plated bore. Also any info on carburettor settings would be great. Thanks, Mike.