Does anyone know of a company who could restore my C15 ?

[esfcandm]

Hello,
I've just joined the Club, partially in the hope that I can find someone who could restore my C15.  I've had it since 1981 - it's followed me around, living in sheds, on balconies, in Britain and abroad.  It's even occasionally, but rarely, been roadworthy.  The paint is original I believe, so I don't want that restored.  Last time I ran it, the engine and gearbox were fine but obviously they'll need some refurbishment.  The real issues are the suspension and brakes, and just generally making it road worthy and able to run properly.  It does look a bit of a shed, not having been cleaned for some years...  I'm based in Kent.  Is there any company out there that anyone knows of who could breath life back into my old friend ?  Please would you let me know.

[rhyatt]

Your association and empathy for your old friend is truly heartwarming and a great joy to read.
Would you feel happy letting someone else fiddle with your friend , I don't think I would.
Could the forum help you to rejuvenate your friend yourself , there's plenty of help for you and maybe someone lives near you to pop round and help you.

[DAVE BRADY]

Hi,

Welcome to the BSAOC.
I would suggest contacting the Kent Branch.  Go to few meetings and talk about what you need.
The details are in the back of The Star and on the BSAOC website.
Good luck.

Dave.

[V500]

If you're contemplating paying a pro to do the necessary you'll find the costs will soon mount up to more than the bike's worth.
If it's just an old bike you've had for years then you'd be financially better-off flogging it and buying a better one (there's some good 'uns around these days) but if it has sentimental value then I can understand the principle.
Trouble with pro's is they invariably take on more work than they can handle to even out the peaks and troughs of their business, but be prepared for a long wait for completion as it'll probably be an as-and-when job.

[Maddog226]

There's a friend of mine who would have the skills to do a sympathetic resto, i.e. get it roadworthy without returning it to showroom condition.  Whether he has the time is different question, he is also located in the Black Country, so not exactly on your doorstep.  He rebuilt my B44 engine and  forks, and did a great job. Would you like me to enquire?

[scifi]

One good thing is that your C15 is over 40 years old, so no longer requires an MoT, and you only have to pay £0.00 for the tax..!
If you know how to adjust the free play on the control cables, you should be Ok for some DIY.
The brakes will never be as good as twin disks, but you just have to ride thinking half a mile ahead.
One thing almost certainly needed doing will be to clean the carb jets, and also polish up the ignition points with a nail file or emery paper.
Maybe join your local VMCC as well.   
Best of luck...