50th Sinterklaastreffen 29/11-1/12/19. Ostend, Belgium.

[geoffbarnett]

Oh dear. Stop the press. Odds lengthen on Lardmarc no-show!

This morning I rode my 1987 BMW R100RS airhead twin to the NEC in Birmingham. On setting out to ride home I am greeted by click click click from the starter motor.

The alternator has not been charging the battery, but there was no warning light on the dash. Bizarrely on these old twins the charging circuit is energised via the warning light. But, if the warning light fails (very very rare), you get no warning and eventually you get a flat battery. I think it's the charging circuit but it could be the brushes on the alternator wearing out or a.n.other fault. I haven't got the necessary spares in stock and time is pressing, so this bike is not going to Belgium.

I managed to bump start the bike, she ran on what remained in the battery, and limped fifty miles home with no lights despite the awful visibility.

So, the even older black R100RT comes out of retirement (or not). I haven't used her since the Elefantreffen in January 2018. She's sat in the garden under a cover all that time.

Can I get her going and legal ready for the MOT tomorrow at 4 pm?

I don't know. Watch this space, I'll keep you informed.

[MadStu]

Good luck, Geoff!

[moose]

Come on Geoff it’s your event oh mighty leader

[Laurence]

Damn.... good luck Geoff

[deadgrass.]

geoff the rt has a cover!,

that must be your favorite,

dave.

[mt bandit]

I'm ready .catching the 11am ferry to England this morning
Staying with friends on the mainland ready for Friday.
I'm so excited

[Minter]

How did you get on with the MOT Geoff?

[geoffbarnett]

Maybe I will make it to the final Sinterklaastreffen.

Today the over 100,000 miles ex-police 1982 R100RT passed it's MOT with no advisories.

I've also today changed the engine oil and put in a new air filter, having found a mouse nest in the remains of the old one.

Only a 15 mile road test today, so whether it will make it the 250 miles to Ostend is a moot point.

Let's Paaarty!

[moose]

Stay positive u have more chance the the Ginger Winger

[deadgrass.]

it"ll be reyt,

we shall count them all out , and count them all back i'm sure,

i have a rope,

dave.