...

Member's Recommendations
(Good Services etc.)

A great page for you to add all of the wonderful
places you have found on your travels...

From great leather merchants, to wonderful biker friendly B&B's in France.

Get them listed here... Contact the webmaster
Let us know of any more you have.

Bike Servicing
B&B's
Leather Alterations
Leather Goods
Chrome Bits
Seats
Bits
Tyres and Fitters
Chrome Platers
Paint, Sprayers
& Custom Airbrush
Engineering
Parts & Accessories
Welding
Insurers
Bike Communications
Breakers
Patches
Powder Coating
Cafés
 

 

Biker Friendly Cafés

Whilst Camping on the Tyddyn Du Campsite which is sited halfway between Dolgellau and Barmouth, last weekend, a number of us took the short walk to the Café Bontddy which is run by a fella named Ian Clows, who just happened to be from Cannock in the West Midlands. We had a great breakfast (all cooked fresh) and a social chat with Ian in his comfortable café whilst taking shelter from the torrential rain dumped on us by that hurricane in September 2011.

If anyone from the VSOC is passing down the A496 through Bontddy village, the café will be on the left just after the Halfway house. Ian will make any biker visiting welcome!

If you have an organised run out to Barmouth and there will be a number of you wanting food, Ian can be contacted via email [email protected] to make specific arrangements

Jem
Vice Rep - Centre 8


Powder Coating

Hi guys and Gals
Just to let you know about a great powder coating alternative to chrome I have found. AEROCOAT in Norfolk have developed a powder coating in chrome, called Aeromax. that I have used recently. Check the pictures out. Those engine bars are were old and past their sell by date but look at them now. I had 22 items blasted and powder coated for £120. Check out their website. http://www.aerocoat.net/

aerocoat picture aerocoat picture

aerocoat picture aerocoat picture

Many thanks. Allan Loveday member 4615

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Patches

I don't know if it is of any use to anybody holding a rally in the coming months or years, or even the VSOC. I have found a really good company for embroidered patches. Good, fast & reliable. 
They are;

i4c Publicity Ltd
3 Broad Street,
Foleshill,
Coventry,
Warwickshire.
CV6 5AX
http://www.i4cpublicity.co.uk/home.htm
Telephone: 0800 298 3226

Ride safe, It's a jungle out there,
Ray Nicholson. Centre 15 Rep. 

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Breakers

Just a quick message to let the other members know of a bike breakers I have recently used. They provided a fast and efficient service. The part was ordered on Saturday morning and arrived, well packaged on Thursday morning with loads of bubble wrap. So that's the part AND a stress reliever FOC, ha ha ha....

Project Bikes Ltd

Units 5-7 Great Northern Road
Eastwood
Notts
NG16 2TD
tel: 01773 765051
(GIBBO - Centre 15)

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Bike Communications

For Bike to Bike and Rider to Pillion Communications systems I thoroughly recommend www.intaride.com When I was learning to ride my Virago my husband got me one of their Bike to Bike systems so that he could coach me through roundabouts and generally offer help and advice when we were out on the road. Since passing my test I have had a full system fitted to my Dragstar 650, which lets me listen to music on those long journeys, as well as talk to my pillion, to my hubby on his bike and to other bikes. Intaride were great, offering not only first rate equipment, but a full fitting service.
Thanks, Sian.

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Insurers

Ever tried getting bike insurance for a 17 year old?

I hadn't until now. With my oldest turning 17 the [ugg!] scooter is on its way out and a 125 will be arriving shortly.

Dad of course gets to pay for the insurance ..... HOW MUCH!!!

Each phone call was more depressing than the last. Finishing the round of the usual brokers/insurers I'd come up with nothing under £1137=15 (TPF&T), even my own favourite Wicked Quotes couldn't save me. After what I'm used to paying for my two bikes, I was breaking out in a cold sweat ("what the F*** am I going to do now"). A couple of Google searches later and I'd found a list of bike insurers, which included 'eBike insurance'.

Result! (sort of) the quote was a little over £400 cheaper than the next best - I'm off the intensive care list. Another year's no-claims and, hopefully, renewal date won't be a repeat trauma (more an outpatient job).

Here's the link: http://www.ebikeinsurance.co.uk/

Regards, Iain From (Iain Richards Memb No. 4979 - C:12)

Further to the posting in here for eBike, having just bought a brand new V Star, there have been a few insurance companies fly into fits of panic over anything not imported by Yamaha UK.

eBike looked at it and said "No Problem" and even added V Stars to their drop down list of bikes.

Got my vote! (Gyro)

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Great insurance company called Wicked Quotes. Got TPF&T in SW9 for £82 with £150 excess – not bad when you consider the next best quote was £128.10p from Bennett's who I’ve been with for 3 years now & they couldn’t match it.
You can contact them on 0870 419 0430. (From Annya Boal)

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15th DECEMBER 2003
CHEAPER MOTORCYCLE INSURANCE!
Sid from Centre 15 here. I've just insured my XV1000 Virago with Norwich Union Direct for £111.98 annual premium! Fully comp + £175 excess. If your bike's insurance up for renewal give them a call on 0800 888111 or 0800 068 1265. If they ask "what was your best quote" say £130 and you should get a good deal! Website: Click here

 

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Parts & Accessories

Having searched and failed miserably to get a new genuine screen for my Virago the boat part company below came recommended.
I looked up the part number, saw it was listed with them, and laughing placed the order expecting to be told it wasn’t available.
Imagine my surprise when it arrived 2 weeks later at a cost, including postage from the States of £35.
(£60 less than the last one I bought in the UK from a Yam dealer.)
It seems as long as you have the actual part number they can, and are very willing, to help.
http://www.boats.net
OutdoorNetwork Corp.
730 Highway 27 North - Lake Placid, FL 33852 US  (From Alan Johnson (AJ) C14 Rep.)

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Just fixed my XV920c 1982 Virago by getting a brand new starter from www.cdiunit.co.uk 50% cheaper than official Yamaha UK for brand new 920cc starter. Works 100% Contact Steve on 07743-720961 (From Roger - C6)

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In regard to an advert for 2 side covers for a Virago XV750 I found a man in the States who has and can get them. He seems to be able to most things he has a Part Number list for Yamahas.
The guy's name for virago parts is Glynn R. Davis,  45OO Printers Court, White Plains. MD 20695 USA.
His email address is [email protected]
Phone Number is US 001-3018430144.
If you go on USA eBay lookout for grdcycle2646. Hope he can help others. Cheers Dave.

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I hate to give away my Virago secrets, but here it is... I have a 1984 XV700 and get all my parts from www.greenscycle.com It is a motorcycle graveyard for all make and models of bikes. Every part that you could think of and engines as well. It is located in Millwood, Ky in the USA. From (Matt Duncan)

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Here are some details of a great supplier I used in America: -

The company is called Polaris and they are a Yamaha and Suzuki dealer. The guy to speak to is Ritchie and he is a very helpful guy. They will give VSOC members 15% discount on accessories and 20% plus on genuine Yamaha spares. Any order over $400 they will ship F.O.C.

Their website is http://www.motorsportssuperstore.com/ They also stock items from suppliers like Barons, Vance and Hines etc. From (Bob "Badger" Dawson - Centre 12)

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Welding

For all your welding needs. Ali, steel, cool ali-ark (tig welding), aircraft coded standards. Motorcycle (new, classic, off road ) and general repair work. He is a top class welder and will travel if needs be, he is also a biker. Contact Bob Crudgington on 01489 790 196 or mob 07752 383 624 or email [email protected] (From Michael Cunliffe)

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Engineering

I recently made contact with a lady who runs a small engineering company that also does very high quality work for Formula One clients. Carole's late husband was a biker (2 Harley's...what can one say?), so she has a interest in helping fellow bikers with their one-off or small quantity engineering job needs. Website is www.chmartin-eng.co.uk and she can be contacted on 01493 394948 (Great Yarmouth) or email [email protected] (From Martin Yates)

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Bike Servicing

Hi, I have had some excellent service from a mobile mechanic who has fixed the problems on my 535. 

He came over to me and diagnosed the problem, sourced a second hand spare part to save me money, fitted the piece and carried out a first class job.

I would like to pass on his details as he may be of service to other members.
best regards,
Steve Hagger

Russ Thomas
Based in Rothwell, Lincolnshire
Tel: 01472 371155
Mob: 07940 752 606

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Hi,
If you require a Service, Repairs or a MOT in the Scarborough area I can strongly recommend Grip Cycles they recently Serviced my Dragstar 650A Classic. The premises and workshops are spotless highly recommended.

Grip Cycles and Motorcycles
5 Orchard Court
Dunslow Rd
Scarborough 
Nth Yorkshire 
YO11 3UT 01723 586565
www.gripcycles.co.uk

Cheers Brian (centre 5 member 6182)

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Hi, For a good services (and a laugh) HALIFAX MOTORCYCLE SERVICES! www.halifaxmotorcycleservices.co.uk
Cheers
Tony

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If you are in the Welwyn Garden City, Herts area, why not give Duncan at BikersRealm a try for any servicing or repairs. He offers a good service at a good price. He looks after my Dragstar 650 and both he and the bike have not let me down
Address: 16 Little Ridge, Ridgeway, Welwyn Garden City, AL7 2BH
Tel: 07729 232591
website: www.bikersrealm.co.uk
Cheers, Mick (Mem No. 5036)

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Cheap Mot's for club members in the Blackpool area £20.00 rolling road for brake testing great guy to get on with biker himself ACACIA MOT'S, CHISWICK GROVE BLACKPOOL Tel: 01253-791177 he also does tyres the guys name is Dave Curwood.
David E Ogden 
Member centre6 number 5683 

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Hello there. I'm in Nottingham and I have found a real good chap named "Ado" who has had 24 years experience in the bike service industry and he has now gone on his own at VERY reasonable prices. He has totally re-built my 650A classic inc re-spray and at a great price. I will recommend him to ALL bikers.
Contact "Ado" on 07906 823 667. He's in Ilkeston and I tell you he will look after you.
Cheers all, Woody.

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P & C Motorsport in Gainsborough have provided me with excellent servicing, loads of free advice. I can fully recommend this garage to all for used bike sales, servicing and repairs.
P & C Motorsport. Bridge Rd, Gainsborough, Lincolnshire DN21 1JU
Phone 01427 613300 (From Ian Hagger)

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Servicing of Viragos - great man called Les from La Moto in Wigan, Lancashire. 30 years+ really knows his stuff totally reliable and very cost effective. Tel Les on 01942-497602 (From Roger - C6)

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Hi everyone my name is Steve Gaskell and as a new member of region six I would like to recommend a garage that I have recently used in Standish near Wigan. The name is Parkes Standish Motors and is run by Colin & Alan who are both bikers themselves and from what I have seen have the ability to cover most repairs and also MOTs. Apart from that they are both really nice guys who speak your language. Their Telephone number is 01257423740. I hope that they might be of service to you. (From Steve Gaskell)

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Below are the details of a mate of mine, Paul Lord, he looks after and services my bikes and he is one of the best I have come across in many a year. Anyhow, I was round at his place over the weekend and he was servicing one of those big Jap Cruisers, I was surprised because I thought he only serviced sports bikes, but no he does Cruisers as well.

Can you do me a favour and pass his name on to members of your club and tell them he comes highly recommended for a good job at a fair price and you know the jobs been done proper, no corners cut like at the Main Dealers.

Other satisfied customers include John Burnell and Bob Corbin.

REDLINE SPARES

Servicing and repairs on all makes of motorcycles.
Also parts e.g. Chain and sprockets, brake pads,
plugs filters etc.
PRE-PURCHASE INSPECTIONS.
No VAT charges.

Tel Paul on: 01253 722478
Mobile: 07745007554
14 Smithy Lane, Lytham St Annes.
Callers by Appointment

Best Regards Stan.
(From Stan Porter)

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I can wholeheartedly recommend MAC MOTORCYCLES for excellent work and a really friendly attitude! They have recently worked on my XV750 and put it back on the road for £52. (Others had quoted ridiculous sums of money!!). They can be found at 180 High Street, Tooting, SW17 (Opposite a large Mercedes Dealership) and can be reached on 020 8672 4631. (From Phil Taylor)

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If you need to get your bike serviced and live within striking distance of Horsham, West Sussex, then I'd suggest you use Turn One Motorcycles.  They're very friendly, helpful and reliable.  And they won't rip you off!  Give them a ring on 01403-276969. (From Anne Hodson)

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I f you need good service and sales at a very good cheap price (a new XVS1100 Drag Star at £4999) try KJM SUPERBIKE. Wrightington, nr Wigan. They are on the web www.kjmsuperbike.co.uk. Ring them on 01257451656. They sell a lot of Drag Stars, Wild Stars etc: I have found that they are friendly, helpful and reliable. Nothing seems to be to much trouble for them. I have been there 4 times in the last 6 months for bikes for myself and 3 of my family. (From Nigel Pargetor (daddy) member no:4105)

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B&B's

Also see B&B's/Accomodation

Pension Williams in the Black Forest, Germany

Pension Williams
www.pension-williams.com
Tel: 0049 (0)7842 2853
Fax: 0049 (0)7842 2850
Email: [email protected]

After seeing the advert on the VSOC website we contacted Angela at pension Williams who was very helpful and secured our booking without taking any money from us.
Six of us traveled from the Moselle Valley to the Black Forest to be be greeted warmly by our host David (Angela's husband).
He had moved his car so we could put our bikes next to the entrance of the Pension (where he normally parks his car!) and under cover but it is a quiet residential area so you have no worries at all about the safety of your bikes. After a welcoming, complimentary drink and chat we were shown to our rooms which were spacious, clean and excellent views over the town of Seebach. We had a dip in the indoor pool whch is very inviting after a hot day travelling on the bikes.

David and Angela provide snacks such as sandwiches and soups at very reasonable prices or you can have a 10-15 minute walk to the local town where there are a few restaurants to choose from. There is a self service bar for beers and wine at reasonable prices within the Pension if you want to ride into the town for a meal and then come back to have a few beers which is what we did. David and Angela made out stay very enjoyable and would certainly recommend them to any bikers wanting to use this as a base whilst exploring the Black Forest.

Due to being members of the VSOC they also gave us a 10% discount which was great and made our final bill at the end of our visit that little bit less frightening. We had an excellent time so please give them a try if you are thinking of going to the Black Forest.

Thanks from,
Jo and Steve Smith (Centre 6)
Mick and Chris Bradley (Centre 6)
Pat and Royston (Our well traveled Moto Guzzi mates)

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Biker Friendly B&B in Norfolk

Lynn and I rent out rooms at daily and weekly rates in our converted Granary in Stoke Ferry, Norfolk.
We particularly welcome bikers and have secure off-road parking.

If you want to know more, give us a ring on 01366-502116 or e-mail on [email protected]
We look forward to hearing from you, Brian & Lynn

Many Thanks, Brian Perrett (3702)

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It would be great if you would list this site, www.dartleisure.co.uk A great base for some fantastic riding. Regards, Ken Hands

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link pic

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Contact: Mick and Vanessa French
La Colombarie
81140 Cahuzac sur Vere
France
Tel: 0033 563 33 98 85
E-mail: [email protected]
web site: http://just-cruisin.monsite.wanadoo.fr

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We are Warner's Farm, Wimbish (Home of the Wimbash- that goes back a few years). We now do B&B. We have 2 ensuite rooms, 1 double and 1 twin. Breakfasts are legendary and guests have the use of the swimming pool. As member nos. 0009 and 0810 we know what VSOC members need, however we are prepared to ignore that and just provide comfortable beds, big breakfast and friendly service. We are ideally situated for Centres 6, 3, 8 and 7 going to Harwich Ferry.
We also offer good discounts to members.
Phone Netty or Chris on 01799 599525, 07989562316 or 07811162432

link piclink piclink pic

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Last weekend me and my wife took a ride down to Lyme Regis. We had a good journey and a good time there. It is a very interesting town. We stayed at the Manaton B&B in Hill Road, Lyme Regis, tel 01297 445138.

It is run by John and Glenda. They told me that VSOC members will be very welcome. We had a very comfortable stay.

I think it will benefit other members to have the option of a good place to stay if they are in the area.
PS £55 per night for a double room. (Bill Vine - centre 19)

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Biker run B&B in west France, newly opened see www.le-rendezvous.com
10% discount to ALL bike club members.
Regards Tony Cook

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We run a Biker only B&B and are situated a couple of minutes off the most beautiful part of the Rhine in Germany. The roads here a simply a must for bikers.

We take no passing trade and have a reservation only policy for touring bikers and clubs. In this way we can give our best attention to our guests.

Members can also visit us on our website: www.german-rhineland.com and get some idea of what we do here.

In the meanwhile, thanking you in advance for your attention.

Yours sincerely,
Andre Lauret

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Callington, Cornwall. Ensuite B & B.
1 Double Room
Off road parking
Secure parking for bikes at rear
All town amenities within walking distance
Ideal for touring Devon & Cornwall
Strictly NON Smoking
Phone Pat:- 01579 389226
From Nigel Pargetor (4105)

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Biker Friendly Accommodation, in France

edgarsbandb.jpgLarge renovated farmhouse, situated in Aquitaine (SW France).
1/4 hr ride to the beautiful Aquitaine coast (Arcachon, Pyla)
Nearest town: 1 mile away on the river Garonne, is the medieval market town of La Reole, with good bars and restaurants. Also nearby are Leisure Lakes, Tennis, Golf, Fishing and Grass track racing.
Other nearby historic towns include; St Emilion, St Macaire and Bazas.

The house is surrounded by countryside and has the following amenities:
Ground floor:-

Large lounge (Inc Sky TV, Stereo etc.).
Fully equipped kitchen / dining area with open fireplace. (Fridge freezer, Microwave, Washing Machine etc.).

1st floor:-

2 x "Triple" bedrooms. (Each with double and single bed).
1 x Family room (double and 2 singles)
W.C.
Shower

 

Duvets, and linen provided (Towels on request). Gas central heating
Large gardens, with terrace, furniture parasols, BBQ, slide and swing.
Private swimming pool 11 x 6m, fully enclosed with sun beds and parasols.
Secure covered bike parking and repair facilities.
Best route: Brittany Ferries - Portsmouth to St Malo.
Very cheap flights available: Manchester to Bordeaux. (www.bmibaby.com)
Prices per week (self catering):
Up to 4 people £500
Each extra person (above 4), £100 each.
We will strive to do our utmost to ensure you have a pleasurable and memorable holiday.

Contact by telephoning Edgar and Sheena 00 33 556613908
or Dave and Joy 01704 578208.

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Brecon Beacons National Park

Great bike-friendly B&B in Brecon is Cherrypicker House. Close to the town centre, lots of nice pubs, lots of nice walks, on the edge of Brecon Beacons National Park, loads of lovely bendy cruising roads & (most importantly!) the biggest breakfasts ever.

New owners are Clive & Rhiannon Evans and the web address is http://cherrypicker-house-b-and-b.wales.info/ and e mail address is [email protected]

There is a large carpark to the rear of the house. Reasonable rates @ £35-£45 / night with one double en-suite, one double + one twin in a very pretty house.

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Isle of Skye holiday cottages - Uig, Western Isles of Scotland

Here's a link to Dasha's cottage on the Isle of Skye which is now doing rather good business as as holiday cottage. I cannot emphasise enough how beautiful and wild it is up there.
Dasha has told me to tell you that if you would like to book, you would be entitled to generous discounts... I'm planning to go myself at the end of August.
Perhaps your club members would like to know about this - The roads up there are empty and 'erm... bendy (I think that's a good thing, isn't it?).

http://www.cottageguide.co.uk/greystonescottage/
(Forwarded by John Stevens, Thames Valley Vultures)

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Anyone out there who visited Iain & Lynne at the biker friendly B&B The Donnington Scarborough will be pleased to know that they have now opened a new biker friendly B&B in the heart of France.
Situated about 20 miles outside Limoges in the middle of glorious countryside and along brilliant biking roads I thoroughly recommend you to visit having just returned from a few days in their company. Check out their web-site at www.donnington.info or e-mail at [email protected]
Telephone (0033) 555-692807 (From Bob Long VSOC no 398)

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link picI can 100% recommend Chateau Mont Epinguet, 9 miles from Cherbourg having just returned from a brilliant weekend there. Email Mark & Fiona Berridge on [email protected] and say you are from the V.S.O.C. they will make you very welcome. Cheap, quality accommodation and central to all the sights of Normandy.
(From Dave Kenway Centre 12 #3577)

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B&B in Arromanches, France. Unbelievably biker friendly, does proper breakfasts, (I'm not knocking croissants but sometimes the body yearns for bacon!), and has secure covered parking for about nine bikes. You can find them on www.normandybeach.co.uk and email [email protected] also [email protected] If you're planning to visit France were you can sit at relatively high speeds 90-100 mph with minimum or no traffic, and the foods .....well French, and the booze is ....well mostly wine or cider or beer, give Adrian an E. He's about an hour from Cherbourg and I almost forgot, he's English and the accommodation is pretty spectacular as well. (From Dave Twissell, Paignton, Devon. VSOC #3551 via VSOC Online Forum)

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Leather Alterations

Hi there. Here is a great service for any leather repair needs - it is amazing what you can repair nowadays! Paul Gaskin is a friendly guy - he has a great site full of leather repair examples. Here are the details:

www.leatherrevive.co.uk

Leather Revive, 9 Avery Gardens, Poulton -Le-Fylde, Lancashire. FY6 7UP 
Telephone: 01253 893 935
Mobile: 07941 797 464

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Just thought I would drop you a note about NRP Carburettor Diaphragms who have just repaired my 535 units. I got one fixed last year but it came un-glued in the week and I also found a small hole in the other one. Sods Law!! Mind you it did get some stick on the trip to Prague. Anyway, Andy at NRP is very obliging and repaired both for me on Saturday, only charging me for the new unit. He is situated actually in Victoria Station in Manchester, not on the tracks, but pretty close in a lockup as you walk into the station approach. Very handy for me living in Eccles. He also has a leather repair and alteration service in the same place (think this is his main business) which may be of interest to club members as well. You can find him at www.nrp-carbs.co.uk . He also does Air cut-off valves, Fuel tap kits and Float valve repair kits. (Bob Aldham)

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I have just used The Leathershop. No.5 Battye Street, Dewsbury, West Yorks, to alter some leathers and found them to be quick and good quality repairs. Their Phone number is:- 01924 454990.
WEBSITE on-the-internet.co.uk/leather. (From Howard Payne VSOC Centre 5 - Yorkies)

 
 

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Leather Goods

Hi , the guy listed below has got the best and cheapest leathers of all types in Norfolk. They make and sell them through three outlets in Norfolk.
NORFOLK LEATHER CENTRE. 106, Regent St. Great Yarmouth, NR30 2AE. Phone 01493 851029. Also Lowestoft 01502538882 and Cromer 01263 519734. His personal phone number is  07956 227770 Raja Sajjad Ayub (Sarji.) He is a great guy, so if you need leathers, just call him. Hope you find this of help. (From Barry, Centre 10, Norfolk)

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There is a little leather shop called M.C. Handmade, opposite Halfords in Chatham that is very reasonable for leather goods.  He had a set of throw-over saddle bags for £60 he also does repairs and is very helpful. The address is 18 Batchelor Street, Chatham, Kent ME4 4BJ Tel: 01634 830008. (From Ron Abbott)

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Chrome Bits

Doug Taylor Metal Finishing Co. Unit 7,Knightcott Ind Est, Banwell, Somerset. BS24 6JN.
Douggie's a good old boy who does a superb job! email: [email protected]
Tel: 01934 820454 or fax: 01934 824058
 (Bill Harding C17)

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Cruise UK , in Leyland, built me a pillion seat for my XVS1100. They did a great job and all for just £80.00. Any one with an XVS1100 and a pillion will know a new
seat is a must. (From Tony centre 6 #3934)

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2 recommendations: Firstly, M.A.D. products. They sold me some greatly discounted exhausts for my Dragstar. They look good & sound awesome! + £30 cheaper than anywhere else (they were Highway Hawk). Secondly, M.A.D. products. I went to the Beaulieu Motorcycle Festival in July (fab day, got burnt to buggery!).  I bought some Highway Hawk Mirrors in good faith from a stand (bargain price!) but the sun must have got to me as he did a lucky dip when he said "Dragstar - no problem!".   When I got home they didn't fit!! Ah ha!, I thought, got the bag with the phone number on! It was a bag from a reputable dealer in Glasgow! who said "Beaulieu, where is that?" when I explained it was about as far south as you can go he laughed even harder! and then became very interested about his carrier bags! Anyway, I spoke to MAD and they ordered me 2 new stalks for less than £8 !!! Thank you (Nigel, Solent Branch)

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Seats

Bootleg Bike Seats are a part of Preston Car Trim, a company that's been operating in Preston since 1979.

We are a small family run business with a reputation for good quality at reasonable prices and, with over 35 years of experience in crafting interiors of the highest quality backing up that reputation, continue to keep our customers biking happy!

They did my seat and Kevin's on his Raider and are doing Steve's Raider next week. They do a fantastic job and are good value. Check out the site.www.bootlegbikeseats.com/  (Janet Butterworth)

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Motorcycle Seatworks, 366-370 Woodside Road, Wyke, Bradford. BD12 8HT. Tel 01274 604672. Website www.motorcycleseatworks.co.uk If you have a seat which requires re-foaming, recovering or altering then please call Damon who will be pleased to carry out the work for you. He can also convert seats into King & Queen if required. (From Howard, Yorkies webmaster)

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Hi Guys (and gals) Just to let you know I have found the best "seat repairer" in the business. Give Lee a call on 07977874075 and he will travel within M25 area. Just did a beaut recovering job on my Corbin seat for £45. He tells me has never charged over £50! Brilliant guy, and can even do "Flag of St George" if needed! (From Jim Freeston: Centre 14)

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Trev Marsh, Mansfield. I knocked up a back rest to stop Sue from flicking off the bike and could not think of any way of covering it to make it look as if it "fit". I took it to Trev Marsh in Mansfield and he did it in two days. No Problem! He also re-upholstered and covered a Honda seat very reasonably. So give him a call for your seat cover needs phone/fax 01623 654165 Home 01623 640317 (From Malc - Kirkby)

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Bantaskin Bike Seats. I recently had a seat recovered by these guys and they did a great job of it. They have a range of colours and will tackle any seat - I have seen a'Corbin' they did.  The cost is around £50 +p&p for a standard Virago seat. If needs be they even do a 24hour turnaround at no extra cost.
Phone :- 01324638981
Mobile :- 07833711547
From Tom Brady (stumpytom)

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Brilliant upholsterer who is also a biker!!! Alterations to seats, saddle bags etc. Contact: Gary Hubbard, Unit 1DE Cumberland Road Trading Estate, Loughborough, Leics.  LE11 5DF. Tel 01509 267166 or 07970 267747. Great service - cheap too (from Brad)

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P&P Seating, Birmingham( www.ppseat.co.uk ) Got a King & Queen for Drag Star 650 Custom - delivered for £135, nice & comfy, replaces that 'padded plank' Yamaha have the cheek to call a 'pillion seat' and also lowers the rider an inch or two (they also do it for the 1100). They do the King & Queen in 2 formats - send yours to be recovered or they make a new one from scratch (to order) - either way about a 10-14 day turn round. For those with delicate rear ends they also do 'em with gel pads @ £49 for the front and £40 for the pillion.
From Jon Bevan

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Bits

Hi,

I bought a handlebar chrome clock a good few years ago, but the clock insert gave up the ghost over the last winter,
A complete replacement is typically £30 to £60, I found a replacement insert that just drops in, in-place of the original Clock. It is much better quality than the original ( although advertised as shower proof it is visibly better sealed too )
All this for just £16.45 including VAT & Postage in black or white face ( also available in same style are thermometers )
Thought maybe someone may have a need as I did, a good service was received and they also use PayPal.

The company is Everglades International, Cheddar, Somerset. BS27 3ZX +44 (0) 1934 744051

url for actual clock = http://www.craftmaterialsupplies.co.uk/acatalog/36mm_Standard_Miniature_Quartz_Clock_Inserts.html

website = www.craftmaterialsupplies.co.uk

Regards, Dozer (Centre 10)

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Stainless Steel Spokes at Brickwood Wheel Builders

Old Brickwood Farm
West Grimstead
Salisbury
SP5 3RN
tel: 01722 712701

Send 1 of each as a template, stating how many required (9 each of the small & 18 of the large - for the XVS650 rear wheel). They say about £45 all up delivered for a set with nipples. Then find someone to relace your wheel (or be brave and do it yourself!!) (Jon Bevan)

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I feel I need to let the Club know of this product I bought at the NEC this year.

link pic

I ride with a full face during winter and struggle to keep water off the visor like most riders also some stuff for water repelling ruins the coatings on my visors.
I bought a bottle of visor proof from Grin Factor and boy does this work! No damage to the visor and even freezing fog does not stand a chance - water just beads and runs off in the wind.

Check out www.grinfactor.com £6.99 inc P&P. This is great stuff! (Regards Rob - Centre 8)

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Hi All. I would like to tell you of a company I found by accident while searching the web for replacement screens for my Royal Star. They are called Cee Baileys www.ceebaileys.com They are located in California USA. They make windshields for many different types of bikes as well as other useful bits. I ordered a replacement windshield for my Royal Star, they make them in various heights and also offer tinting. The price I paid for a 24 inch one was 90 dollars and 31 dollars shipping via Fedex priority overnight. They have a distributor in the UK called Woddies bike emporium but their prices are in sterling. I suggest if you want one go directly to Cee Baileys you pay in dollar. The quality of the part was as good ,if not better than an original manufactured part. If you have any questions you can email me at [email protected]  Ade. (Centre 20 Ireland)

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Fed up of balancing your 1100 Dragstar or Vstar or using two people to check the oil? Yep, thought so - then fit this. I have and it's great and it's only $30 including freight. Rob Jones (Centre 8, #5212)

http://home.swbell.net/ronhelms/QwikView1100.htm

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Hi, just thought I'd let you know about the excellent service I have received from VisorsWorldwide.

http://www.visorsworldwide.com/
Telephone - 01481 712662
Fax - 01481 700221
e-mail - [email protected]

They managed to supply me with a road legal tinted visor for a helmet that most other suppliers had never even heard of, and recently when one of my visor fixings disappeared as I was riding to work (what loctite?!!!) they were kind enough to locate and supply me with a full set of replacement fixings, including posting them to me, absolutely free of charge! I cannot recommend them highly enough. They can get hold of a lot more than is listed on their website too, so give them a ring! (Gareth & Jackie)

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Just thought I would drop you a note about NRP Carburettor Diaphragms who have just repaired my 535 units. I got one fixed last year but it came un-glued in the week and I also found a small hole in the other one. Sods Law!! Mind you it did get some stick on the trip to Prague. Anyway, Andy at NRP is very obliging and repaired both for me on Saturday, only charging me for the new unit. He is situated actually in Victoria Station in Manchester, not on the tracks, but pretty close in a lockup as you walk into the station approach. Very handy for me living in Eccles. He also has a leather repair and alteration service in the same place (think this is his main business) which may be of interest to club members as well. You can find him at www.nrp-carbs.co.uk . He also does Air cut-off valves, Fuel tap kits and Float valve repair kits. (Bob Aldham)

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Lamba Motorcycles in Carshalton, Surrey have been giving me a 10% discount on spares/Yamaha accessories over the late few years, they are also pretty helpful if you have a problem. (Alan Stephens # 1803 Centre 14)

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Thor Enterprises of Grimsby
Absolutely fabulous service from  www.te-motorcyclespares.co.uk/ . They sell all electrical items for bikes, including Virago reg/recs, the cheapest anywhere, ordered by phone at 16:30, delivered next day. Knowledgeable, efficient, courteous and friendly, a superb 'web trader. (Ron Dobson)

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Customlids. Great site with great prices on clothing, lids, gloves, boots etc also lots of accessories (give them a bell & they'll bend over backwards to help if it's not on the site) is Custom Lids contact details as follows:
web page: www.customlids.co.uk
address: Custom Lids, 247-251, Westgate Road, Newcastle-Upon-Tyne, NE4 6AH
tel.: 0191 232 6454
e-mail: [email protected]
contact: Neil or Malcolm (both really helpful!!)
LADIES - great site for us too - lots of small sizes!!!!!  (Annya Boal)

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Tyres and Fitters

Motorcycletyres UK. I spoke to their tech guy Mark regarding repairing a puncture - and they are expert! Gave me really good advice. Bottom line is - never use sealant for a permanent repair!! Use a mushroom repair for a simple nail in tyre job.

www.motorcycletyresuk.com

link pic

Probably the best tyre specialists in the UK
Sid Meyer (Centre 15)

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I can recommend MTS on Little Tennis Street, Nottingham for tyres, balancing and of course fitting. Owner is Tim, a bike racer himself so he knows a thing or two about the essential black rubber bits.
Can be contacted on 0115 941 3333 or 07973 521006. Very reasonable prices and a good cuppa as well! Try him.
Ian Philips

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I would like to highly recommend Alan at Watling tyres in Gillingham, Kent.

Sound advice, good service and very reasonable prices from a real bike enthusiast, and his electronic balancing machine can handle bike wheels.
Alan Johnson (AJ) Centre 15

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I must recommend the shop below for their ride-in, ride-out tyre fitting service. Continental Milestones fitted to my XV750 inc. balancing for just £140.00. Pity they are Honda Agents but we can forgive that for the brilliant service. (Brad, Centre 9)
Twiggers Motorcycles
30 Nottingham Road
Loughborough
Leics. LE11 1EU
01509 263967

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K W Motorcycle Tyres I understand you are after good tyre fitters and suppliers, well I think I may qualify. My name is Karl, I'm based in Weston Super Mare, in Somerset, and fitting and supplying bike tyres is my business. I've been working for myself for 4 months now, and I've already had over 150 customers. I worked for a couple of national companies where I received training from Avon and Dunlop. I did my apprenticeship in a main dealer bike shop as a mechanic. I decided to set up on my own because after working in these places I felt that the bikers I met were feeling conned with parts, service, insurance and tyres. I'm a biker myself and wish that everyone tried riding a bike at least once in there life. So I wanted to do my bit and did what I know best sell and fit tyres at a sensible price, I haven't done much advertising, most of my customers have been recommended by other customers. I work from home so I've got very few overheads. I also don't charge for wheel removal , valves or balancing I'm not tied to any manufacturer so I can offer unbiased advice on most makes and patterns after establishing needs. All my prices are inclusive so what I say is what it is. I've invested a lot in getting the right equipment because a biker and his machine should be given the respect they deserve. I can put a pair of Bridgestone's on an XV750 (100/90/19h g535 front, and 140/90/15h g536) for £145 ride away price if interested then give me a call on 01934 642615 or 07751 381111 between 9.30 and 5.30 I also do out of hours fitting at no extra cost and at a time to suit. Thanks for your time and look forward to hearing from you soon.

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Chrome Platers

www.ashfordchroming.com
Ashford Chroming and Metal Polishng
"The Home of Metal Finishing In Kent"
Contact Martin Webb
Mobile: 07798946071.
Direct Office Line: 01233 660879.

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I have come across a Chrome Plating Company in New Romney Kent called Swan Plating Ltd. I had the gear knob of my puma chrome plated and found them to be absolutely brilliant as they took the part in when nobody else wanted to know about such a small one off job. It is a family run business and the guy that runs it was very friendly and extremely helpful. Their details are as follows.

Swan Plating Ltd
Mountfield Ind Estate
New Romney
Kent TN28 8LH
[email protected]
www.chrome-plating.co.uk
01797 366974
(Dee Collins)

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Here are details of an excellent chroming company in London. They go out of their way to help and do a fantastic job, paying close attention to detail. I can't recommend them enough!

Philip Lefelle
London Chroming Company
735 Old Kent Road
London
SE15 1JL
020-7639 6434
www.londonchroming.co.uk
 (Anne Hodson - Centre 14)

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R&J Plating Ltd , Elliot Works, Eliott Road, Bromley BR2 9PA Tel 0208-466-0966. Chrome Plating, Mainly small items and accessories. Average quality but attractive low cost.
 (Alan Stephens #1803 Centre 14)

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SILCHROME PLATING Ltd. Barras Garth, LEEDS. LS12 4JW. Tel 0113 263 7808, Fax 0113 263 2382.
I have just used this company to chrome various old and new parts for my Virago. I found them to be very good and quick . (From Howard Payne VSOC Centre 5 - Yorkies)

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Calladine Restorations, Unit 4 Brailwood Rd, Bilsthorpe, Newark. 01623 870372
Bit slow but well worth the wait... Thanks to Ian Walton, Centre 9

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I've just had my front exhaust clamp chromed for £17 that was with P/P.
It was done by Chrome Restoration Specialist who can be contacted on 01303 268969 or fax the same number. I was well pleased.
(From Malc in Kirkby. Mem No 3334)

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Paint, Sprayers & Custom Airbrush

Hello

I tried to buy some touch up paint from a Yamaha dealer but he said it was no longer available. He said that he would not be able to supply paint for any Yamaha that had been out of production for 5 years. 

After an extensive search I found: www.rsbikepaint.com

The paint I needed wasn't in their massive range of 25,000 colours. I loaned them a mudguard for a few days and they created the pain I wanted. 

Other Virago / Star owners might have use of their services. I thoroughly recommend them.

Regards - Andrew Gadd

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Brilliant Celtic artist for leather and helmet airbrushing and tattoo designs to order. This guy did a fantastic job on my leather waistcoat and is now airbrushing my Dragstar trike with a Celtic design. No job too small.

Contact Mark Boardman email [email protected] or visit www.myspace.com/dragonsfiredesign
April

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DH Kustoms - Unit 13, Meadow Lane, Loughborough Call 07799-366641

link pic

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Stuart (Sam) Hughes made a lovely job of my bike which won best Custom at the North Star Rally, information can be found on his website at: www.bikeart.co.uk (C14 Member -  Alan Johnson)

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Just wanted to add that as well as supplying Novelty helmets, saddle/sissy bar bags and motorcycle valeting we at Enigma U.K. now offer motorcycle paintwork at very competitive rates (includes collection, stripping, rebuilding and delivering) have always painted my own bikes and have now painted Ivan's Wildstar (Centre 5)
Have a look this season or check out the website www.mtr-hull.com all details are on there.
(Tony - Centre 5)

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Four Aces: I have just had my tank and fenders airbrushed on my Dragstar 1100 and I have been asked by several members who have seen it if I could give them the details of the guy who did the work for me. The total cost to take the bike to bits, spray the tank and fenders with a mural and then re-build the bike was £750.00 CASH it would have been 17.5% higher if I paid by any other method.

Four aces v twin
Unit 12
Sycamore centre
Eastwood Trading Estate
Rotherham
South Yorkshire
S65 1EN

Telephone 01709 362666

They are open Mon to Sat 09.00 to 17.30

If anyone rings them ask for Mervin
(From Paul Green)

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