Guidance on Classic 500T Please
Hello all, first time poster here. I'm considering a change of bike to something more appropriate for the roads where I live and popped into local RE dealer for a look. He had a new Classic 500T which I've fallen for in a big way but I'm not sure about the practical differences between the Classic and Electra trial models. I don't want disc brakes, electric start or lean burn (I'll be doing my bit for the environment by riding a bike which does 80mpg) and can cope with right foot gearchange (ex BSA bantam) but do those Electra improvements really make a big difference on the road, particularly the brakes. I don't think the Electra T is as pretty as the Classic T and would rather go for the older model but I don't want to make a choice that I might regret later. The dealer doesn't have any non lean burn bikes for -*test*-('") riding.

Hi Rusty, nice to have you on board. I have a 500 estart classic demo bike which you are welcome to try. The difference between the Electra and classic is mainly down to performance, gearbox and maintenance. The classic, as you know , has four speed and points ignition which needs checking. It has a drum brake which is perfectly adequate for the power of the engine. The Electra has CDI ignition. The styling of the classic is more suited to the trials and you don't have to have electric start on the classic either. Why not come down and have a go and we can discuss your requirements. Jim Allen

Thank you for the offer Jim but Grimsby would be an awfully long way from Oxfordshire to travel for a -*test*-('") ride, I don't get up that way much. Having researched a bit more I don't think the classics are worse bikes for being older, in my view the Electra range has lost some of the charm. I'll be taking a punt on the 500T just as soon as my Thunderbird Sport has been sold.