Back to Black

I came across this bike last summer.  It had been stored in a garden for 9 long years (the tax had run out in Jan 2000) with all but a light weight cover over it.  It was nut and bolt standard with only 3800 miles on the clock.  No sooner had I seen it sitting in a Buckinghamshire garden, it was on my truck and heading for my garage.  I had thought of selling the 1100, as it was, together with my 750 for an alternative cruiser.  With the low mileage on the 1100, I couldn't resist scraping together some pennies and restoring it.

Keith mentioned that his daughter's boyfriend (Ryan) was looking for bikes to modify and restore.  Ryan a budding engineer and his mate Rob have set up Run Riot Cycles (part time) and despite having just turned 20 years young they are well on their way to becoming a big name in customising and restoring motorbikes.  They have already won trophies for their work in the past and have been featured in BSH.  Incidentally, Keith did all the paintwork on my bike.  Originally the bodywork was a deep blue and beige.  Keith spent many hours, I'm sure to Sandra's delight!, in his garden shed / come spray booth.  He did a sterling job even air brushing the tank logos.  Keith also paints Ryan and Rob's other projects not too mention the occasional job for one or two Vultures.

Ryan and Rob took the bike back to the engine and frame and worked their magic.  I would have liked some artwork on the tank but could not stretch to it at this time.

Run Riot Cycles can be contacted at www.runriot@gmx.co.uk

There have been some teething problems just a case of dotting the I's and crossing the T's.  Now with Tax & MOT, I can't wait for the coming season.