work - but in my opinion could be very easily replaced – and my own prefs would be flat bars and bar end mirrors , underslung , or small and circular like the lights . The other is not so easily fixed , and that is the gearbox , which was , oddly , both spongy and crunchy . I occasionally wear hi-top RM Williams dress boots when heading to town , and changing up was so hard it actually hurt my foot to the point of bruising . However , regulation riding boots solved the issue , but it ’ s still a lumpy bastard of a box . One other niggle while we are at it , the sidestand is hard to find , it is not in a natural position , and a bit too firm in its action , staying at half-mast if not kicked solidly home . These are small prices to pay for what is a damn fun bike to ride and to look at . It has real presence , personality and style , and is so damn good looking it has to up your personal quotient of cool considerably . The bike is beautifully made , solid , and is firmly in the modern classic mould . It was a genuine pleasure to have this bike around for a while and , although longer periods aboard did niggle my left foot and hip , it was worth it .
ON THE ROAD On the road , the bike has a low centre of gravity , helped in no small measure by that drive shaft , and it is a pleasure to cruise on . I flowed round Ridge Road out towards Paremoremo , where there are busy little corners and snatched glimpses of
+ Style ; Personality ; Beautifully made – Stiff gearbox
62 KIWI RIDER