Hitchcocks Forum

Hi guys---in the UK our Ministry of Transport annual safety test requires that headlamps be tested on Main and dipped beam.....I have a Bullet '65 where the headlamps only work with the engine running......It also has a de-compressor and electric start.................I don't want my sprag clutch compromised by a Tester trying to start the bike without using the de-compressor, so what's the best "Diplomatic" way of telling him/her if I'm stuck in the "Viewing" room ??

Disconnect the starter, tell him you never use it as you prefer kick-starting. Can`t hurt to try that. Another thought, explain the problem with using the electric start, it might gain some sympathy.

Can you not run a temporary power lead to the lights from the battery?

If he's half sensible he'll ask you to start it for him.

Disconnect and tell the tester that the button start is farked by some *** trying to start the bike without using the de-compressor.

Just think, a half hearted kick down with a warm engine will often spit back with resultant buggeration to the pawl or the oil pump spindle..

Even better it could still mash the sprag trying to go backwards..

Not trying to worry you Alan..

Even with my Enfields, which are kick start only, I usually have a word with the tester first, as thy're not usually accustomed to using the decompressor and ammeter to know when to kick.

I forgot last time and there was a beautiful flame and a bang from the exhaust which made the other mechanics laugh.

He was INTERESTED, not embarrassed when I had a chat afterwards about the the technique . I think you certainly SHOULD speak to him.

I get my MOTs done by a garage which understands 'old' and unusual machines - Del Basso in Hitchin. The lights on my Moto Morinis are so idiosyncratic that I just showed the tester that they worked properly and he ticked them off the list.

Hi Mark B----Unfortunately we lost our only Local Lad with any Classic bike experience when The last Bike shop in town ceased trading a while ago...Yes, I'll have to have a quick word when I arrive and keep the H'lamps on just in case... Thanks everyone for your input...