twistandnogo

Hi - i used to jam front wheel in corner where bulkhead/van side meet and then use tie downs, but having bars at that angle meant I had to rotate clutch lever round and ended up with fluid level low and hence no clutch at one trial. So I knocked up this little frame from wood I had lying about - it jams between bulkhead and wheel arch to help fix its position. Looking about, I saw several others using chocks etc. as above, but my frame holds bike upright via front wheel without any straps making it easier to then strap down. Interestingly, I thought about options such as multiple bikes, moving bike to different sides etc. - so I am a lecturer at a University, and have just set a design project for a student to try and design this very thing - minimally invasive so no holes in van floor or sides, multiple bikes, multiple configurations/angles, easy to remove, lightweight etc. - so I am looking forward to his proposed solution to this design problem, and may then be able to construct one myself if it is suitable!

Quick update 25/04/17 - had another go and we seem to have made more progress. We have a CAD model and have been able to produce a 3D printed part from it. Need to check for fit etc. but looks promising....I think it still needs a little refinement (inserts in mounts etc.) but I think if i can get a little time over the summer I may be able to work on this and produce one to try. Note that rather than produce the toolbox we simply extended a feature across to enable some kind of fixing on the other side of the frame to help reduce build time/cost.

17/06/16 - A quick update....unfortunately the student involved in this project encountered personal problems and so could not make much progress. As a result I shall set it as a project for the next academic year starting in September and hopefully get something from the next student to attempt this project. We did however scan the airbox and this should hopefully be shown in the attached image. Unfortunately I don't really have the time to do the full airbox work myself but instead thought I'd run through the process quickly and attempt to create a cover to replace the missing toolbox lid. Point data was extracted and I created a 3D part (shown in attached render). I then printed it out and now have photos of it on the bench and then clipped onto the toolbox end (made it an interference fit but may have to look at maybe inserting a screw to hold in position). I only used white material as it was on the machine - it can easily be painted or we can print in black - and have not put any form of logo on - but the process all looks valid for a full airbox in future.

I have had a look at my airbox and it too has several cracks around lugs and a small one around the side too! So some incentive for me to try and persuade :-) my student that this would be a better exercise than the TY one! Yes, I would envisage that were we to do this exercise the mounting lugs would have to be included, although the toolbox one could be an issue. We may have to look at doing something different for this mount as producing such a deep model could be problematic (in terms of cost especially) I would imagine that scanning and creating a CAD model would not be an issue for us, and as Smokey suggests may need to allow for inserts in key areas such as mounting lug holes (I think the central boss that the cover fits over could be achieved by producing a solid boss and then simply drilling into it for a threaded bar). More of an issue as mentioned by furse could be size of model - I envisaged possibly making the airbox in two distinct parts, a large open drum type shape that could be built this way up I___ ____I if you get what I mean, a large opening on top that the cover mates against, and a hole at the bottom for a separate link piece that could be produced that would form the box to carb link. The two pieces may need to have a little design work to ensure they mate well and can be sealed by silicon or such to give an airtight seal (if cost means it cannot all be a single component). I would imagine replacing the toolbox with some sort of design feature that would allow a long plastic tube or such to be used to create the mounting point on the other side of the frame. We have several machine types available and cost is dependent upon which we use, but we give students free access to Makerbot replicator machines and I have just seen that they suggest a build volume of 246x152x155 so could possibly fit on that machine, and could build in ABS. Any thoughts? I have no idea of the cost of printing at the moment and am making the above suggestions as a potential way of reducing build time and hence cost. This may be something the student can look to optimise.

Just measured the airbox approx 150mm diameter and 80deep so might be possible.will look at rp machines in next few days so it might be possible to rp them.

Hi I noticed site was blank too but noticed that Nick now seems to have added more personal and MTB stuff so maybe it's part of his changes. On the airbox front I don't suppose you know external dimensions? Reason I ask is I have a project student about to laser scan, model & reconstruct a TY mono airbox for his university project (I lecture in the mech eng dept). I didn't realise the fantic items were so hard to find. It might just be possible for me to get him to do the 200 instead as my 200 is in bits at the moment so can easily get airbox. Our usual stumbling block in such projects is the remanufacture aspect-we look to use 3D printing the issue being build size. We sometimes break item down into smaller sections and reassemble. I'm not sure but if we do away with toolbox part we might get it on the machine bed in one go. Will talk to the student when he returns in 2 weeks and see if he might find this more interesting than trying to work with the TY one where we would be looking at smoother flow into carb. Will post back once I know more.

Hi - if it's the same as 2012 the Allen bolt passes through the frame and screws into the internal thread of a bush that fits into the lever pivot. This bush has an external nut at the rear that needs a 19mm spanner to hold or undo. Hope this helps.

Hmmmm, this is rather interesting for me. Apologies if you think I am hijacking this thread but I believe my post is relevant and may save me creating a new TC topic as I was considering doing. I'm a Senior Lecturer in the Mechanical Engineering section at a UK University and have this year set a final year undergradute project on this general subject. I have asked a student to investigate the application and use of modern Reverse Engineering equipment (we have contact and also non contact laser based systems available) in the context of classic trials bikes. We have a view to identifying a couple of suitable components and carrying out case studies of them including gathering the geometric data with a view to developing a CAD model and then manufacturing a prototype (potentially through the use of of our Rapid Prototyping systems if appopriate). This is purely an academic exercise to demonstrate the suitability (or otherwise) of such RE and RP techniques to reproduce items that may no longer be available and is not a commercial venture looking to produce and sell products. The student has carried out some market research into what classic trials bikes are around, and what components are available, including conversations with some retailers/restorers. The project student was rather struggling when we met yesterday so I suggested that one case study item suitable may be a Mono airbox for several reasons - bikes sold, geometry, material, dimensions etc. (also I have a pinky in bits in the garage!). So in short, I am not very familar with the classic scene and magazines as alluded to in one reply (although I have been riding on/off since the 80's) and have not seen any modifications to these airboxes other than the opening of the lid as mentioned. However, if anyone could describe any improvements to the actual airbox it may be that we could for our study reproduce the original and then an improved modified version that may further evidence and justify the use of such techniques and enhance the project activities, then that would be much appreciated. Likewise, if anybody could suggest any other possible unobtainable components for classic bikes that would also be most useful and welcome. Thank you for any help anyone may be able to provide to the educational experience of one of our undergraduates, it would be much appreciated (and I do hope to convert him to trials from his superbike!).

Craig Hardaker at back top photo to right of Mr Dick Brown. Definitely a Perry at the front (Phil?). Dave Pye middle left and Derek Watson two to his right. Is that also Mike Perry's head poking out just behind Dave? I know I'm gonna seem obsessed Bikespace, but is it Roger Pinder to right/front of Dave Pye (he definitely had that hairstyle at the time (even after practising)), and also in middle of bottom pic? Long shot but is that Nick "Depeche Mode" Coleby just to right of Craig H? Kev Tate in the golfing jumper? Wow just realised how poor my memory is these days I should know at least 90% of them - must be all these years of alcohol abuse. Recognise so many faces, just forgot so many names!

That's right, the name is familiar now. Thanks for putting me out of my misery, will be able to sleep at night now!

I also rode at Hart in my very first trial, could well have been 1982 as well! I seem to recall it was a bit of a flat field with only a few trees/banks/drainage ditches as sections. I cant remember what the exact name of the venue was, but looking on the map North Hart Farm seems possible. Be interested to find out for certain as its now got me puzzled too!

The summer series trials are perfect for beginners in my opinion. The biggest problem I can see is the large entries that the early events attract, which last year meant a fair bit of queuing - not good for nervous beginners! But Phil T is the CoC for the first event, an experienced section plotter who always puts good sections on - the easy routes tend to be fairly easy, whilst the hard course also takes a few marks. I would say go for it and give it a go, last year there were several new starters at the trials I rode/observed at, and all seemed to be having a great time. I hadnt been on a bike for many years but wobbled round and loved it. I'm sure they will enjoy it, everyone at these trials is very friendly and they are always run with an emphasis on fun and enjoyment for all, by an enthusiastic and welcoming club. Have fun and enjoy!

Guisborough is not too far away and have their own practice area at Charltons. Great club, all members very friendly and helpful. Have a look at http://www.guisboroughdmc.co.uk. Just give them a ring and they will sort you out quickly. You might also benefit from calling into White Bros. on Northgate and they will be able to give you details of Darlington dmc and also practicing at Dalton woods if still allowed.

Mine went a few weeks ago too. Switch costs just under

No problems with mine either yet wri5hty, but just in case I am just up the road near the Centenary. Took the photo in the shop to see Ray yesterday, but he's laid up with a broken ankle after a little off on his road bike so never got to say hi from you Gaz. Rogers mam confirmed its not him on your left, but she also thought it was Richard Brown to your right, his dad Malcolm and Ray were good mates, she also did flowers for his sisters wedding a few years ago. Left the photo for Ray to look at, so he might be able to fill in the remaining gaps. Will call in and collect it in a few days and hopefully have more names.

Yeah, will say hi to Ray, very sure he will remember you. Have seen George a few times recently, he has been at trials observing and looking after Lee's kids (mind you, Lee wasn't riding), and he has been up Charltons a few times when I have been practising recently. Will let you know once I have more info on those faces. By the way wri5hty, whwereabouts in Stockton are you? I am in Norton and have a 300pro so could be handy if ever need to swap parts to locate faults etc. Cheers.

Hmmmm, the more I look the more I convince myself! Unless you get a more definitive answer. there's only one thing for it - will have to print a copy out if thats okay with you and take it down the flower shop Rogers mam runs and test his dads (Ray) memory, he tends to be pretty good at this sort of thing. Will also take it along with me next time I ride and see if George McGee can remember as well! The guy at back right is very familiar but cant remember his name for the life of me.

Could the lad on your right side be a young Dick Brown? And on your left, if you dont get a better guess could it be my mate Roger Pinder? Certainly got a very similar smile and eyes! They would both be right age wise.

One trick I have found when loading my bike into a small van such as a combo/berlingo/partner is to use a tie down strap to compress the forks (run it from front wheel spindle to bars, still allows wheel to rotate) prior to putting the bike in the van. This makes it much easier to clear the roof when loading, and also manouvre the bike into position in the back of the van. Then once in position, the strap can be released if required. Always works well for me and I much pefer this to using a rack.

I see the Scarborough DMC Pre65/TS Sporting Weekend was well attended with around 90 riders doing both days and several more only doing single days. Not sure if some of these riders would have gone had there not been such a great 2day trial on over the same weekend?

If its the same trial I was at (think it might be), the club did exactly the right thing by excluding said rider from the results. I am just starting riding and have given up my ride a few times recently rather than wobbling round so that others more skilful than I can have a good trial, and hate to think I would have to put up with that sort of abuse when I was doing something for nothing and trying my best to give everyone a good days sport.

Hi again. Thanks for the prompt, clear, and excellent advice. Posted before I went and had a good look at the bike and yes, once the wires were taken off thermostat the fan went off. Didn't have time to check thermo switch but replaced with a new one from local dealer and hey presto, all seems fine again with no fan on anymore. Will test old switch this week just to confirm that it was duff - only worry now is why it went - dealer suggested rectifier may be problem if this one goes too (they have seen this happen a few times). Thanks again for all your help. Cheers.

Hi Got my 05 Pro out a couple of weeks ago and after 5-10 minutes (it was a hot day) the fan came on. However, it refused to cut back out again and stayed on. Rode for another twenty minutes with the fan on constantly then put the bike away. Checked coolant level when I got home, and all was well. The next day I got the bike out, and immediately upon starting it the fan came on and stayed on again. This situation has remained ever since, with the fan coming on as soon as bike starts. I have checked electrical connections on thermostat are solid and WD40'd wiring etc. Can anyone help with suggestions as to what I should check and how, it would be much appreciated as I've not had much mechanical experience with watercooled bikes. Thanks for any help at all.

Been through this type of quandry recently myself too. Maybe the poster should state their location, and a couple of guys volunteer to give a test ride on their bikes at the next local trial or something? Would help reduce the subjectiveness of advice, and everyone always says "have a go on both and decide yourself". Getting a go can be harder than you think when you are first starting/returning and dont know too many people. Just my thoughts, cheers.

You got him, rider number 122 I think. Not sure how to post links etc. but try this. Cheers. ps, he won the over40s class I think.