For those readers who are not familiar with how things are done in the UK, every vehicle on the road is required to pass an annual safety test - commonly referred to as an MOT. They check bulbs, braking efficiency tyre condition, general stuff like that. It's a pretty good system, it keeps dangerous cars and bikes off the road.
My bike's MOT was due to expire at the end of March, so I brought it in for a test. I've never been through the MOT process with a motorcycle before, so I wasn't sure what to expect. My hope was that the bike would pass the test, and I could be on my way.
I went to Frank Dunstall, a motorcycle shop and garage based in Elmers End, in London. I had been in the shop a few times in the past to buy some gear, and I found the chap to be helpful and knowledgeable. They offer a test viewing area, which I was keen to use.
Russ helped me out, testing the bike. He was happy to answer any questions I had as he went. The test took about half an hour, and we went back into his office.
He told me the bike had a few advisories; these are things on the bike that aren't dangerous yet but if ignored, they could become dangerous. My front tyre is running low on tread, and the chain was worn.
I knew I had recently replaced the chain, so I asked about it. We went and had a look, and noticed that the rear sprocket was loose in its spot - Russ decided this was dangerous, and marked the test as failed.
:(
So, we worked out a deal where he would order the parts and I would do the repairs on Saturday - it was my only day off, and I wanted the bike re-tested as soon as possible.
Unfortunately, the parts didn't arrive in time, so I had to drop the bike off, and leave it for him to repair. His job was to replace the rear sprocket, the chain, the cush bearings and their studs, and the rear wheel, where the hub had cracked.
Keen readers will remember I had replaced the cush bearings the same time I did the chain. My error at the time was not installing new cush studs and also I cracked the hub when removing the worn bushes. The result was that there was play in the drivetrain, which just got worse and worse, to the point where it was dangerous. I had also neglected to oil the chain properly (entirely my fault), so it was looking quite rough and rusted - riding through a winter takes its toll for sure.
I like to do my own work, however my work commitments required me to leave it to someone else. I was a bit trepidatious, but I knew it had to be done.
I left work early on the day I was to collect my bike. I had to ride in one of those big noisy red double-decker things that are always in my bus lane, but I made it.
When I arrived, I was very pleased to see that it was all ready for me! The new wheel was on, the new chain and sprocket were fitted, and I was very happy. The cost for the repairs was ridiculously low - about £100 all in. And then came the test - the ride home....
I got on Hank, fired him up, and strutted off. Oh, man, it was like I had bought a new bike! I have only ever ridden this bike (except for the one I used for by CBT, which was also a CG 125), so I can't really compare it, but it felt so.... happy. Russ had adjusted my clutch cable, so it no longer went CLUNK when ever I engaged first gear at a stop. Accelerating away from junctions was a smooth, relaxing affair. Cruising at a steady pace was no longer like going to the chiropractor - getting all hammered out of shape. It was, in short, glorious.
So I got him home, and spent some time with him; he got a much needed bath, an a good once-over. Once again, my life was complete. My bike was back where it belonged.
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