Would anybody mind sharing a photo of all the correct handlebar levers for a 1944 WM20?
There seems to be different types available, I want to make sure I have the correct ones and also check I’m mounting them in the correct position.
Thanks
Steve
Graham. The first WD M20's were fitted with the BSA pre war levers which is what I have. I'm unsure when the changes took place, but I think that Amal levers were fitted at some time during 1940 but they might have been a more salubrious Bronze/brass make up, followed by steel as economies dictated.
My Triumph here has the earlier plated on yellow metal Amal controls. Ron
This photograph of three machines from contract C6654 conveniently appears to give an indication of the change, although the serial numbers are not all completely visible but they all commence C419 which means that they fall within the range WM20 21000 - 24487 so they would appear to have been using Amal controls by August 1940 at the latest. Possibly a little earlier.
The levers on these bikes look lethal, particularly on Rons M20, just like daggers ready to stab a poor DR in the leg if he was unlucky enough to slide off in the mud. I wonder if there are any instances of this recorded? No wonder the ACU made ball ended levers compulsory on competition machines after the war,'tho not till the sixties I think,
In the 60's a scrambles rider in the UK was killed by a non ball end lever in a crash...That event lead to the ACU ruling...I guess prior to that a low level of non fatal injuries didn't concern them too much...
I don't think they lived in such a risk averse society in those days either...Ian
Tony, riding a bike that is liable to stab you to death is what keeps you alert and on your toes. At least we're not being shot at too! We call it " Living the dream" :smile: Ron
PS. Those BSA levers are surprisingly comfortable and come with a parking brake:+1:
Ian and Ron, yes I guess such things were not a priority when the poor buggers were more worried about having a couple of Mauser magazines emptied in their direction. Best to keep quiet about it now too, in case the H&S police make us fit ball ends to our lovely old machines.
I've seen also a suggestion that whilst a front number plate may be fitted, any 'blade' without a registration number could be considered to be a vehicle in dangerous condition. Basically, with 14hp side-valves we're living on the edge of legality, as well as life and death. Bollocks to it. I'll ride in a Tommy helmet when I feel like it too.