Rudge were the first to introduce left and gear change on a motorcycle. It was because performing a U-turn on a British road is easier if the motorcycle has the foot gear lever on the left. Rudge also manufactured the world's first "Ton Up" 250cc road motorcycle in 1938, NOT Suzuki in the late 1960's. Very distinctive sound to a Rudge. I've a friend who's collected and raced them (grass track) all his life. I've even had a ride on his 1929 Ulster back in the late 80's. Very memorable experience.
Rudge were the first to introduce left and gear change on a motorcycle. It was because performing a U-turn on a British road is easier if the motorcycle has the foot gear lever on the left.
Rudge also manufactured the world's first "Ton Up" 250cc road motorcycle in 1938, NOT Suzuki in the late 1960's.
Very distinctive sound to a Rudge. I've a friend who's collected and raced them (grass track) all his life. I've even had a ride on his 1929 Ulster back in the late 80's. Very memorable experience.
Great podcast. Thank you very much, a very special machine.
I have the same bike 1937,I note he never used the de-compression lever after starting
Hi. I never used it since its not neccesary. This Rudge is a spectacular machine. Congrats on yours!
great bike. I have 2 ulsters!
+Alan Thomas You have 2! Rich old guys taking all the classic bikes! It took me 10 years to get one!!!
Ha! just sold my '39 for £18000!
Bastard.
Err? why did he change gear with his left foot?
Alan Thomas Hi Alan. I changed with left foot because it has the gearchange there originally... some of them had it on the right side.
A guy I knew had one of these - it beat a dommie 88 easy
I have one