I have seen on some(not all) where the mudguard does not fit as it should.
There must be an explanation for this?
What is the truth?
I think maybe the factory was doing some improvising with different parts causing not so perfect fit.see pic below
Hi,
I would say that the mudguard fitted is not an original. The radius should be smaller to bring the front part closer to the tyre. The front stay should make about a 90ยบ angle with the forks and the plate attached to the back of the forks should be more in parallel with the forks rather than angled back. Some muguards today are described as universal and will 'fit' 18" to 21" wheels. I think the word 'fit' is the wrong one in this case.
Dave.
Your front stays look a bit too long. I've just measured mine (1970 model) and the front stay length is 9.3/4". The mudguard does appear to be higher off the tyre than it could be but lot's of photos of this model appear like that.
Hi,
I have attached a photo of a late late '69 so basically a 1970 when it was just about new. Not the best quality image but the mudguard and the stays are quite clear.
The mudguard in question actually looks like it may well be a bit narrower.
Dave.
I have always felt that 1968-70 A65:s should have the front mudguard closer to the wheel. (And maybe other medel years to.) Except perhaps for the Firebird Scrambler which also imho has a better overall look of the mudguard.
That mudguard is too big, it looks like it's made for a different bike altogether , there's something up with the forward stay as well.
Here's a pic of the mudguard on my 1968 A50.
(https://i.imgur.com/G33384oh.jpg)
Thanks for all your replies
I took measurements and a new pic
From left to right 12 1/2"x7"x10"
Here is a thought is it the wrong way round the 69 bike picture has its centre mounting bar near vertical
Hi,
Going by the indents for the fork legs I would say that it was on the right way around. The radius seems too big. I suppose the option are:- live with it as it is, alter the stays to give a more even gap or find a better fitting mudguard.
Bear in mind that a pattern replacement may not be much better and the money could be spent on petrol.
Looking a bit more closely at the second photo of the bike and the removed mudguard and stays it looks like the whole thing needs to be rotated forward a bit. The stays that attach to the plates on the forks look like that are angled back. Is there scope to slacken the bolts and line it up better?
The indents would then fit the forks better.
Dave.
I agree, rotating forward would at least even it out, and it looks like adjustment can be had, and yeah not going to spend those $$ to gain what 1/2"
Thanks