I don't think there are many out there that are still absolutely standard,and in really good condition. At worst I consider mine to be usable/scruffy,but it is in fairly bog-standard trim....even the wiring loom,(in the headlamp at least),has not been butchered or modified.Tailpiece of the silencer is missing,sadly. I'd rather have something standard-but-dog-eared than a mint mongrel,but each to their own.(Thats not a description of your Bantam,Farmster,just a general statement of preference) Either way it's hard to value them: since I bought mine last week,I schlepped down to Margate to look at a D14 with a B175 motor installed,(considered to be the best engine of them all with a 4 speed gearbox).It was described as a running almost-finished-genuine-reason-for-sale machine. The reality was a 280 mile round trip to spend less than 90 seconds looking at a bike that was a far cry from completion,and which was somewhat more expensive than the one I already have. Beauty is,indeed,in the eye of the beholder...but I'm sure it will suit someone...just wasn't ever going to be me
I agree with Drinky, it was a lovely motorbike - not perfect but It was a classic - one little chip of paint on the side panel, if that denotes flaking paint then I stand corrected.
Hi Pete, I am the mug that purchased the "rough" Bantam not for £1300 either and yes there were a few issues but nothing overly drastic that put me off the £1400 asking price. £13.46 a week for two years, not bad for something so delightful to ride and look at. The bike is nigh on 50 years old, did you expect it to look like it had just rolled out the factory? As a parting shot, the Bantam draws as much attention, if not more, than my Ducati's whenever we are out. I figure classics like these will only rise in value, unlike my savings account which returns 0.20%.:Cigar:
