Hitchcocks Forum

Out on first proper run today onmy 350 Enfield
and the Speedo needle was fluttering between the ranges. I Was wondering after having the front wheel off for brake shoe replacement the cable is not properly seated in the gearbox.

Hi Jamesy------- unfortunately the old, iron engined bikes are well known for their "Optimistic" speedometers....You may have a plastic-bodied drive unit fitted and these can be crushed slightly when re-assembling the front wheel into the forks if not careful..........There are metal-bodied ones available which are far more sturdy....On my last bike the plastic one disintegrated on a busy Saturday morning in Brignorth High Street with an attention grabbing YAAKKK--YAKK---CCCLLAAKKK-- RATTLE !! etc..

This might be of interest to you and others on here }--------- https://www.motorcycleclassics.com/mc-h ... peedometer --------

You might try removing the headlamp and detaching the upper end of the cable. Then withdraw the inner cable to check for kinks. Lube before reassembly and turn the inner until it pops into place. Try spinning the wheel and watch for smooth spinning of the cable.If this isn't a cure, it could be the speedo. Alan is right about replacing the cheesy plastic drive unit. Mine was held on with a supertight nut that came off with much effort.

Hi guys.Was able to check the speedometer attaching the cable drive end to an electric drill and the Speedo functioned smoothly.I have the metal type drive unit and noticed there is a grease nipple there.Cant remember the last time I used one but I will need to buy a grease gun.