Is the below chrome number plate apron original or after market and can I get one from the UK or anywhere.? ?Alison those alloy side panels are actually cast alloy and are the 'Holy Grail' for Sprite fans. They were standard on some models but are popular with special builders. A good proportion of American Eagles/Sprites that come up for sale are missing these panels. They're practically unobtainable and when they do come up you'd better prepare for a bidding war ;D.
thanks
You can also put an American Eagle motor in them.There's no such thing as an "American Eagle" engine Alison. They're actually Sprite Husky clones with American Eagle cast into the clutch and ignition covers.
After reading the above it's dawned on me just how "Anorak" I've become. I think I should start to get out a bit more. ::) ;DTrue, but you are such a lovable, interesting and knowledgeable Anorak ;D. Please don't change Firko 8). Who would have thought that such a mundane enquiry about a Sprite would turn into such an interesting thread (with interesting pixies and all) ;) ;D.
Some of the articles I have indicate that the first (10-20?) Alrons were straight Sprites re-badged & appear to have all been the 400. Ron Lyons apparently wasn't entirely happy w those rebadged Sprites. The later (25-30?) "real Alrons" do seem to have had an in-house-built frame made on jigs in Jandacott, Perth.John you are in deed a fellow anorak and now you've really opened up the subject! I was aware that Alan and Ron Lyon were planning to jig up for their own frame but until now didn't think that they ever eventuated. Talking to Brian Clarkson, who was the NSW distributor and their only Aussie "works rider", he aluded that all of the Alrons were rebadged Sprites and didn't mention any Aussie built OSSA powered bikes. He did mention that the OSSA Phantom powered Alron was a good thing that handled better (in his words it was "less nervous") than a real Phantom and weighed about the same.
Just another Hybrid
And worth a cool $13grand two years ago.....Just another Hybrid
Ah ,but a nice classic one 8)
cheers
Incredible Tossa! I was just going to try & track him down this week, as he's mentioned in a couple of articles I have. I'd love to know more about the 250 Alron in particular.
Sounds like an interesting article for VMX ;) ;D.Incredible Tossa! I was just going to try & track him down this week, as he's mentioned in a couple of articles I have. I'd love to know more about the 250 Alron in particular.
He arrives back from UK this weekend, so will sit him down and see what info I can get out of him, probably have to ply him with my good red wine
Sounds like an interesting article for VMX ;) ;D.
Hope this hasn't stolen too much of your thunder Tossa,for when ya dad gets home.Doesn't steal any thunder, and yes the Sprite does win hands down. Sorry to have stolen part of your thread about a beautiful bike.
http://www.ozebook.com/aza/alron.htm
Sprite still wins- heads up ;) ;D
cheers
Hope this hasn't stolen too much of your thunder Tossa,for when ya dad gets home.Doesn't steal any thunder, and yes the Sprite does win hands down. Sorry to have stolen part of your thread about a beautiful bike.
http://www.ozebook.com/aza/alron.htm
Sprite still wins- heads up ;) ;D
cheers
That's a great article you found, but I believe there is more to the story regarding Alron and hopefully I'll get it out of the old man. then again i could be totally wrong!!lol
Are Alan and Ron Lyon still around? I'd like to find out their take on the saga in addition to the piece Ray did in an early VMX. What happened to the spares and left over bikes after it all went pear shaped?
Are Alan and Ron Lyon still around? I'd like to find out their take on the saga in addition to the piece Ray did in an early VMX. What happened to the spares and left over bikes after it all went pear shaped?
I know of one possible Husky engine from one Sprite at this point in time in WA---on a roll now... ;D
Hoping Tossa will have more news of the Alron pieces/parts -roll on page 5 ..8)
JC don't forget to share your news :P ;D
cheers Alison
Hey, nice catch, are you taking it to Clackline this weekend?? :)
No Brian Clarkson wasn't at CD6 John, he was at Jonesys 50th a week later and did attend the Coff Nats 2 years ago. We forgot to get his contact details when we were talking to him but I'll see what I can chase up.
Thanks JC,
Hope to catch up with you at the Nationals so we can discuss more on the frames etc.Interesting about the pivots.
cheers S&A WA
After following this thread I was prompted to follow up on an Alron Ossa I have known off.
This owner had brought the bike directly from Ron Lyons and it has taken me 10 years of persistence to finally clinch the deal.
I have picked up the bike and will post photos at a later date.
Firko
Totally AGREE the number of Alron/ossa maybe one or two ??? :-\
This bike was brought from Ron Lyons was his personal bike. This was brought from his home not his business.
Alison, I'm lead to believ RL is still alive, but we haven't been able to get a contact yet. Mitch said his father Sid Lyon (who financed the Alron venture) has died.This bike was brought from Ron Lyons was his personal bike. This was brought from his home not his business.
Interesting ! are you saying Ron Lyons is still on this great blue planet of ours. ?
cheers
Alison, I'm lead to believ RL is still alive, but we haven't been able to get a contact yet.FirkoInteresting ! are you saying Ron Lyons is still on this great blue planet of ours. ?
Totally AGREE the number of Alron/ossa maybe one or two ??? :-\
This bike was brought from Ron Lyons was his personal bike. This was brought from his home not his business.
cheers
I believe what VMW60 is saying is that he bought it from the guy who bought it from RL back in the day
One point I have a problem with is that there were "Aussie made" frames. To quote the VMX piece "At Jandakot, Alron had their own in-house welder who built the frames from chrome-moly which Ron had to have specially inported. He( Lyons) quipps, "We probably had enough at any one time to build a run of 200 bikes, because we were obliged to order in such huge quantities"
You lot of little faith,we've only been digging for a short while and not looked in all the sheds and contacted all people involved in the story and life of the Alron.
Give it time,even if it takes another few years.
Time to take a plate of scones around to RL and have a cup of erble tea Tossa. ;D
Keep digging 8)
Don't forget the tape recorder ;) ;D.
Alison/Steve, bottle of red at Wandering and two chairs, .......
Have to be a soft red-not that rough stuff >:( :P :'(Do you want his number
I have made phone calls this morning and have been in the deep South West and now have landed in Perth with the phone info.
Expecting a phone call again this morning-may end up at Mitch's home number ;) ;D
cheers
Have to be a soft red-not that rough stuff >:( :P :'(Do you want his number
I have made phone calls this morning and have been in the deep South West and now have landed in Perth with the phone info.
Expecting a phone call again this morning-may end up at Mitch's home number ;) ;D
cheers
I don't doubt your right Firko.It's DT1-2, but the header has been cut, maybe shortened, rotated and rewelded.
It looked very 70's 250 Savage to me. Carl had one when he worked at Hazel & Moore.
Most of the Alrons made where the trials version.With respect Alison...That's bullshit, they didn't make a trials Alron at all...never, ever.
Didn't Ossa only come in 230cc and not a 400cc ? in the Alron ?OSSA were 250 by the time Alron came out. The '400cc' engine is a Sprite engine. OSSA didn't make a 400.
Article posted above by Alison which she sent me a copy in the mail, says 1st Sprite frames in 64 were a strengthened copy/version of Cotton Cougar frameThat surprises me. Even though the Cotton and Sprite frames are similar in design, thy're still very different. Compare my Cotton Cougar frame (below) to Alisons Sprite.
That would be the one, looks a million dollars will have photo's monday hopefully.
JC,
The research on this thread is unbelievable.
I do believe now that this is Mitch's bike or the one he road as in the box with the headlight is the very extra heavy flywheel (you mentioned). Will take a photo and weight it tomorrow.
This just gets better.
400, was featured VMX issue #7 I think????
Have spoken to owner will email some photo's Monday will post Monday night if I can.
Cheers Mark.
JC
Have a look at page 7 Alron tank photo. Left hand side under tank , that would be the top sidecar mount. Also on page 8 aircleaner shoot, the bracket can be clearly seen.
This might confirm the bikes history :o
400, was featured VMX issue #7 I think????
Have spoken to owner will email some photo's Monday will post Monday night if I can.
Cheers Mark.
I'm glad I changed the thread topic name to Sprite/Alron,its seems to get a few more people posting and finding these Alron's...Thanks NSR3 8)
Cheese and wine -Go Rat Bench Racing ;D
Looking forward to the search of more RL bikes. :P
Thanks VMX60 for sharing, hope to catch you at Wandering Mill Farm also. :)
cheers
That OSSA Alron from FNQ is a sweet looking unit. Pity he's also been sucked into the '25 built' vortex.
JC
Looks like a phantom top end with a up pipe :o
What a nice piece of Aussie motorcycle history
Sure we all need detail photos of that OSSA/ALRON ;D ;D
I'm glad I changed the thread topic name to Sprite/Alron,its seems to get a few more people posting and finding these Alron's...Thanks NSR3 8)
cheers
Had a good and informative Alron day today at modern MX, :o very interesting.
OK JC I believe you now :o ;D
cheers Alison
I'm glad I changed the thread topic name to Sprite/Alron,its seems to get a few more people posting and finding these Alron's...Hey Alison, why not add American Eagle to the topic title? They're and equally important part of the yarn.
Stuff I found out yesterday and then told not to dig too deep as I could get myself into troubleI doubt there'd be any threats of legal action because for that to happen the whole true story would have to emerge and I doubt that old Rons ego would allow that. To be honest, most of us already know the sordid behind the scenes story so why not pass on the yarns . Sprinkling little bits of "I know something juicy that you don't" is a bit annoying to the others following this great thread with interest. Post the juicy bits, I reckon! :o
Now I've probably opened another can of worms!Oi >:(, careful, this worm has teeth............... ;D
Mmmmmmm, sparkly, pruddyAnd you may note, absolutely identical except for the tank stickers to the above Alron. As pretty as they are the huge seat kinda spoils the looks.
QuoteMmmmmmm, sparkly, pruddyAnd you may note, absolutely identical except for the tank stickers to the above Alron. As pretty as they are the huge seat kinda spoils the looks.
........except all the alloy bits are polished rather than painted matt/satin black, the frame is nickle plated (NOS or resto bling??) and the Eagle is missing those pretty and distinctive alloy side covers (and air box behind the covers. Mechanically they appear identical.QuoteMmmmmmm, sparkly, pruddyAnd you may note, absolutely identical except for the tank stickers to the above Alron. As pretty as they are the huge seat kinda spoils the looks.
I love all this stuff about the Alron, their history is very interesting. I remember them when i was a kid and they were advertised as the only Australian made dirt bike on the market.
I'm pretty sure i even have a Two Wheels mag test on one somewhere.
Keep up the good work boys and girls.
With respect Gents, look a little closerme and my big mouth....now that I'm awake, you're absolutely right John. I think the seats may be the same though. Perhaps the A-E should have the elusive cast alloy side covers?
Spoke to a few vmxer's at the Nationals and the more I believe that there was probabley under 50 Alrons madeYou're right Alison...........waaaaaaay under 50 ;)
":-*
Alison via Cairns 8)
Quote:
I have some boxes full of old programs etc at home from every meeting I ever rode, I will try to dig them out and we can have a look at how many Alrons were racing and who owned them etc.
Yep another good spot to look for Sprites,Alron AE and all the odd bikes are in old race programmes. 8) ;D
cheers
Thanks Husky and eml,
Steven spoke to the owner of the BSA and he said he had made them himself. 8)
I have new mud guards coming from Don Newell in Qld for this months (Sept) budget.
JC We will get a near full pic on the Alron history(with red wine thanks Tossa) and old Programmes etc when I get to Wandering Millfarm event on the 29th Aug.
cheers Alison
VMX60, I forwarded the pics you posted of yr Alron onto Mitch & he confirmed it definitely is his bike. He was somewhat amazed it has turned up & even more amazed the heavy flywheel was till w it.
I take it that you did some measuring and concluded the trans will swapWe actually fitted the Husky trans to the Sprite cases and it fits like a glove. Not sure of the litigation though Graeme. There were legal threats apparently but I've no record of it going to court. Maybe JC has picked up something on that side of things.
Are you sure thats a 250 barrelAbsolutely positive as Husky Pete has indicated above. 69.5mm standard bore 250 Sprite.
Wrt gearbox, I remember SuperHunky saying somewhere that while the indiviual gears couldn't be swapped w Husky gears, the whole gearset couldExactly, that's what we discovered .......What's Wrt mean John? I'm a bit dumb when it comes to textspeak.
so nothing is as it seems John! ::)
Didn't happen to weigh the frame did you Mark/Pete?No....not yet. We've only just begun. The next experiment is to see what's needed to fit the square barrel 400 engine to my early frame where the Kawasaki once lived.
Had a quick chat with Alison on sunday, I was unable to make the saturday night fiesta, which might just have saved me from a sore head!!lol. I think i might have caused her romantic notion of the Alron to waiver. i'll be able to tell by her response to this
Barry
The TM 400's where fitted with Alron Tanks in a period of time in WA.No. There's no way that a company like Suzuki would do such a thing. There is no such thing as an "Alron Tank". Sprite used Lyta brand aluminium aftermarket tanks on their fastback framed bikes, i.e. Alron/American Eagle/BVM. If Lyta tanks were fitted to any TM Suzukis it was done at the dealer level but more likely by owners looking to save a little weight.
Its a long shot, but a Alron head was sold to a Greg or Graham over east? maybe some one might knowThere is also no such thing as an Alron head, it's a SPRITE head and it isn't really a very rare item. You can pick 'em up for beer money on eBay. The head sold to Greg or Graeme 40 years ago is probably a Toyota alloy wheel these days.
....... including the Alron story is riddled with liars, cheats,.tax avoidance, prostitution, drugs, fraud and even a murder. How could I say no to turning it into a book.Wow, can I put in for a copy now ;) ;D.
the Alron story is riddled with liars, cheats,.tax avoidance, prostitution, drugs, fraud and even a murder. How could I say no to turning it into a book.Sounds like the script for Underbelly 4!!!
Mitch had his suspicions so got the metallurgy checked. Sure 'nuf, frame is apparently mild steel.Interesting, that's what we suspected. the pre fastback frame may be 531 as it feels appreciably lighter than the fastback Alron frame.
QuoteMitch had his suspicions so got the metallurgy checked. Sure 'nuf, frame is apparently mild steel.Interesting, that's what we suspected. the pre fastback frame may be 531 as it feels appreciably lighter than the fastback Alron frame.
I seem to remember Bob Johnson had some thing t do with Alron and could probably add some spice to the mix in the way of times , dates, people etc....
http://cgi.ebay.com.au/2-Wheels-Magazine-11-73-Laverda-Alron-Yamaha-Motobecane_W0QQitemZ310166089950QQcmdZViewItemQQptZAU_Motorcycle_Parts_Accessories?hash=item483756f0de&_trksid=p3286.c0.m14
Cheers
Noel
Could be, except bike in reply #7 on Pg 1 is the early frame, w the 531 sticker on the swingarm only (as far as I can see)“Curiouser and curiouser!” cried old Firko (he was so much surprised, that for the moment he quite forgot how to speak good English). (With apoligies to Alice in Wonderland) this story does get even more curious as we get further into it.
I have bid on the same mag before and it got to $25-bit much for me, seeing as it could be a repeat article....
cheers
Not sure of the litigation though Graeme. There were legal threats apparently but I've no record of it going to court. Maybe JC has picked up something on that side of things.
1974 American Eagle 125 MX
This bike is rare because it was expensive and bad.... The Zundapp power plant is strong but the bike is clunky and doesnt handle very well.
1974 American Eagle 125 MXMethinks this bloke is offering an opinion based on a reputation fed by the biased yellow press of the day. Alan and I have spoken at length to a couple of Americans who race American Eagles in vintage motocross today and they are adament that the early frame doesn't feel any different to the later version on the track and that with decent shocks and well set up forks handle very well and turn much better than the Husky of the period. The fact that the basic pre Fastback frame lasted for 6 years almost unchanged and hosted so many different engines and were very popular in the UK must give them some positive spin. Terry Challinor, the great British vintage racer rode works 360 Husky/Sprite in 1966 and said in an interview 20 years later that he had fond memories of the bike. I've also spoken to Brian Clarkson at length and will be doing a full interview with him in the very near future and he swears that handling was the least of the Alrons worries. He reckons they weren't much different to a Husky to ride and definitely felt lighter.
This bike is rare because it was expensive and bad.... The Zundapp power plant is strong but the bike is clunky and doesnt handle very well.
Methinks this bloke is offering an opinion based on a reputation fed by the biased yellow press of the day.
Have just discovered another 'offspring' - 73 Tyran 400. Will try to post pics shortly & yes, its a rebadged Sprite that was apparently sold by Mitsubishi motors as a TyranThe Tyran was a model name for the American Eagle as was Talon, Renagade, Cherokee etc. You know how Americans just loved to give models flash names rather than the simpler way of the rest of the world. ;D Mitsubishi Motors took over the distributorship of American Eagle after the McCormick Corporation went belly up. Alan has a Tyran 125 but it's a rebadged Wassel. They were also marketed in the USA as the Penton Mudlark. The 405 Tyran differed to the American Eagle only in that the American Eagle logo wasn't embossed into the cases, it's more akin to the Alron and BVM........yet another mystery needing further investigation.
What are the rear hubs and front conicals originally off ?Freaky, they're generic REH hubs which were used by a variety of British small manufacturers. They're very similar to Rickman hubs and are well sought after by pre 65 builders as they have a reputation for being equal to the conical Yamaha front hub for stopping power. They're getting a bit overpriced these days though, the hub shown below sold for $212US on eBay with 12 guys chasing it.
The lugs line up with the 250 forks right ?I presume so...over to Nathan for the definitive answer.
I'm intrigued by the full width hubs on the bike in the ad for the 360 A-E at the top of the page. I thought they all had conical REH hubs but it seems there was an earlier hub. Just when I think I'm getting a grip on the progression of these bikes, something else sticks comes along to bugger the plan.
Irony, don't ya love it - 'in the day' cutting edge World Champion winning machines were crushed and destroyed, and these monuments of mediocrity, blandness and crap survived; are loved and restored .Yeah, Graeme it's pretty ironic alright but you're a bit cruel with the bland and crap descriptions! The funny thing about this whole exercise is that Jonesy and I entered into this little journey with out tongues firmly planted in our cheeks. We liked the idea of restoring the most unloved of bikes, perhaps a vintage motocross version of the old "dirty old men need love too'' ;D
Irony, don't ya love it .
That Tyran above looks like it maybe a 250 barrel. Do you know if its 250 or 400 Mark?It appears to be a 250 John, I'll see if I can find out.
but it's slick bodywork proved to be a little before its time.
(http://img.villagephotos.com/p/2005-8/1062154/american%20eagle%20renegade.jpg)
I'm intrigued by the full width hubs on the bike in the ad for the 360 A-E at the top of the page. I thought they all had conical REH hubs but it seems there was an earlier hub. Just when I think I'm getting a grip on the progression of these bikes, something else sticks comes along to bugger the plan.
I've seen the full-width hub on another Sprite somewhere too - IIRC, the first Sprite w the Villiers engine
Alison,
Did you &/or yr friend ever go thro the old programs to see how many Alrons were entered back in the 70s?
is the Alron a copy of the Amerian EagleGo back to page one of this thread and read. It's a good read. In short, the American Eagle/Alron and BVM are rebadged Sprites.
Just a side cover or a complete bike?????????
Quite a score down south ;D
Looking through old programs very soon JC ;) 8)
cheers
And we've located another complete 400 & another 400 rolling chassis (that I wasn't aware of before).All kudos. This is turning into a great saga. I'm looking forward to the VMX article which must surely emerge, and I'm looking forward to the Detective novel and Movie based on the saga ;D. I'm even looking forward to the story behind the story, the story of gathering the evidence ;D.
..........and there's shitloads more but you'll have to wait until I finish the book. There's simply too much for a magazine article. We've uncovered one of the best untold stories in our sports history, and it's not just the Alron scam. ;DAre we talking TV/Movie rights yet? ;D.
Another untold story maybe book number two in your seriesThat's the crux of my story. The American part of the yarn is even better than the Alron part and that's gold. The whole Sprite saga gets a run, not just Alron. Who's Robert and how do I get in touch with him?
Cheers
Are we talking TV/Movie rights yet? .All tied up with Robert Downey starring as Brian Clarkson, Sir Anthony Hopkins as Frank Hipkin and Jack Thompson as Dodgy Ronnie Lyon. ;)
That doesn’t look like a husky motor to meI was thinking the same thing, the engine looks Sprite to me, that ignition cover is a givaway and I'm pretty sure they aren't interchangable with the Husky item. The radial head looks like it doesn't belong as well. Aftermarket maybe? It sticks out way further than the barrel fins.
Pre '70 American Eagle 250. (http://img.villagephotos.com/p/2005-8/1062154/American%20Eagle%20250a.bmp.jpg)
(http://img.villagephotos.com/p/2005-8/1062154/American%20Eagle%20250c.bmp.jpg)
What did her race, hill climbs?Why do you ask? I don't quite understand? ???
Yep, I was referring to the sprockets - the front is as small as the rear is large :o.QuoteWhat did her race, hill climbs?Why do you ask? I don't quite understand? ???
5 minutes later..............I think I get it.....the sprocket??? Yup, it's sure a doozie!
JC, Allison & Firko,
Furthering the research on the Alron story -
Had great help from a long time VMX member who supplied me with the original program from 1974 listing the only printed Alron entry is a 250 entered in the 250 race at state title level from 1970 - 1975. As you can see it is an Alron listing but doesn't show what model bike (in the 250 race). The rider was R. Weir #334 C grade.
There is no other 400 entries in his program collection.
Maybe the 400 raced at Club level events, as no one can remember one at an open event.
Cheers
(http://i48.tinypic.com/faouuu.jpg)
(http://i49.tinypic.com/ndwmm1.jpg)
Some vmx folks are out at the West Australian Symphony with a free concert on the Perth esplanade(foreshore) where they will play the 1812 overture using the Swan bells and 7 Field Regiment (105mm howitzers)..in other words sipping Margaritas under the evening sky with the girls ;D :P
cheers S&A WA
I remember one 400 Alron racing at northam, state round, I think in 1974
John
The one thing that still cannot be confirmed, if R.Weir was racing a phantom motor or a SDR fitting with a phantom top end 1974 being the 1st year of the phantom just unable to believe Alron had complete phantom motors in 7th April 1974 ?
Well it was a manjimup programme and i think there was at that time only one typewriter in the town, and only one person who knew how to operate a gestetner!!
i remember on several occassions what was put in the programme quite often didn't match what was on the trackSlightly off the thread but backing up your subject, we had a pretty handy B grader in our club called Bob Church who worked for Speedway Safety Products, the importers of all sorts of bike gear during the 70s. One thing they did import were Wassell products including their pretty little 125 with a Sachs motor. Bob was hired by his boss to ride the little bike in selected meetings to raise the Wassell profile. Getting a sponsored "works" ride was great for Bob but there was one flaw in the idea. Wassells were basically crap and not even slightly competitive. Bob had a plan however. He'd enter the meeting on his Wassell but would actually race his trick DG equipped Elsinore. The boss was more interested in playing bowls on a Sunday than going to the races so 'Churchy' got away with it for months. On the monday after the meeting he's invariably show his boss the program with Wassell written next to his name and the trophy he'd often win. The ruse went on for months until he was busted when his photo appeared in Revs clearly aboard his Honda but the caption stating that it was a Wassell. The boss eventually got over it when he realised that he was stuck with a shipment of bikes that nobody really wanted bacause they were indeed so bad. He forgave Bob and actually let him keep the bike!
John
The program posted is the one an only
Alron entry or rider or bikes of any cc over all those years
Strange that in 17th june 1974 Northam program R/Weir is riding a CZ in the unlimited race no Alrons to be seen in print
Agree that the 250 was a Enduro SDR made up to race MX maybe with a down pipe etc
Cheers
TossaSome vmx folks are out at the West Australian Symphony with a free concert on the Perth esplanade(foreshore) where they will play the 1812 overture using the Swan bells and 7 Field Regiment (105mm howitzers)..in other words sipping Margaritas under the evening sky with the girls ;D :POne wonders why one bothers to tolerate the riff raff of todays society, whilst trying to enjoy a little bit of culture!!! I feel besmirched!!
cheers S&A WA
Dad road his in many events especially enduros(marking out and participating), he also rode it as a trials bike with sidecar (australian titles) and I'm pretty cetrtain as an MX bike at sometime, but will check with him. Though JC might already have that info!!
I've been doing a little research and just found that old Frank Hipkin may have been a bit like Ron Lyon when describing his products. In American Eagle literature the frames are described as being made of Reynold 531 tubing. I had my doubts about that and after digging around for a while found the following quote from Frank himself.
"All the motocross frames are made from 1.5mm, 1" diamter ERW tube, I was advised by a top frame builder not to use 531 only if you are silver soldering, It is not strong enough for off-road use. All sprites frames were sif brone welded"
Erw is basically just common old mild steel tubing perhaps with a slightly higher nickel content. That puts end to any speculation about Alrons being chrome/moly.
Does that mean the F21m motors were fitted in the UK or by the USA Eagle importerDon't know but it's a good question. I'll try and find out.
"Just got around to downloading pics from a spring 09 race at Tomahawk Raceway, West Virginia. Never saw the bike in action, but it was in pretty good unrestored shape. The owner got it for next to nothing and and had a growing enthusiasm for Sprites, though he seemed to be a casual non serious racer.I wonder if the guy's really a casual non serious racer when you look ast his other bikes, a pretty well set up XL Honda and a super rare '78 CZ 125 Typ511. He may not be serious but he certainly dares to be different.
Happy New Year, Robert"
Few 405 Sprite were sold in UKThey sold a lot of Sprites in the UK. The factory supported a 3 rider works team at various times including the below 3 riders and Terry Challinor, Vic Eastwood and Frank Hipkin himself. The wouldn't have supported a team for a bike that "sold very few" in the UK.
They wouldn't have supported a team for a bike that "sold very few" in the UK.
Hurry up and do the book on this epic story Firko!!!Michaelangelo took 4 years to paint the Sistine Chapel Tim. Great art takes time! ;D Happy NY to you and the family Tim.
Tossa:o I find that exceptionally hard to believe, incredulous springs to mind - there's got to be another explanation. I can't even see a reason to do it this way ???.
Sorry to say but Dads bike is as found, removed the motor today all bolts have no tension and are a neat fit no mounts are bent which means this is how it was made at the Alron factory
One thing the chain is a straight line maybe that was the only way to get the chain line was to mount the motor on the piss
Dad rode this bike in Enduro/Mx over a few years so the chain stayed on some how
It definitely left the factory AS IS unsure which factory ALRON Perth or SPRITE uk
Bloody hell maybe the blue 250 was the only bike nice enough to sell Retail
Cheers
It is quite common for sidecar motors to be offsetTrue but I bet they don't have that 5 degree tilt though. ???
From what dad said all the Ossa motors were offset, but he never had a problem with his as the drive line was supposedly perfect.I think I'm missing something here . Your dads bike was a Sprite frame I'm presuming with the mounts welded in locally? I just can't fathom how VMX60s bike operated and how it's taken nearly 37 years for the dodgy engine alignment to be noticed ???. There's no way sprockets and chains would have lasted or even stayed on for long enough to get from A-B without bailing out. Every time the bike would hit a bump under load the chain tend to want to come off. No wonder Alron went bellyup. This is all going to help make my Alron chapter in the book an even better read. ;D
[quote
On that subject...Is Ron Lyon still on the planet and if so, does anybody have any clues to his wherabouts and contact details? It's time I got his thoughts on this....the real story, not the bullshit he fed Ray Ryan and the Aussie press and public of the day.
Firko, Yes Dads bike was a sprite frame and was offset. he's says he never had a problem with the chain at allThe offset isn't an issue, many bikes have offset engines...it's the tilt that I'm talking about. As long as the rear and front sprockets are parallel ..no problem but a front sprocket running 5-10 degrees skewiff to the rear can't work for long before something gives. Perhaps the bike did precious little work and was retired because of the problem?? The photos show a bike that looks like it's done some work though. A mystery.
All Alrons had fastback frames Alisonyep just quoting off the back off the photo I have ;D .the CD4 Alron photo is on page one, if anyone wishes to have a gander. :P
.
JC I believe the aircraft fitter was in fact Alan Hayes, the brother in law, married to Ron's sister. The family helped get him a visa by claiming he was the welder the company needed to build their frames. .
Alan hayes had nothing to do with it because he was a salesman not a mechanic or welder. But I do believe to help him get into the country the family told imigration he was to be employed as a welder within the "factory"
sprite parts from your rellies in England!!!
sprite parts from your rellies in England!!!
What parts are coming?....just curious.
I reckon the tank is diffeent, the cap on Alisons appears further back. But the eyesight aint as good as it used to be
I really you're going to tidy up the wonky engine placement. ::)
Then in the photo are road koni :-\ pre 74 means upright no hassle or finger pointing
Cheers
don't you mean "you show me yours and I'll show you mine'!!
Still talking about sprites, anything else interesting on the world seen of American Eagle, how many of these bike are in Australia.There are 2 complete bikes and one roller to my knowledge Dave. Alan Jones has a 250 fast back and a 405 pre fastback and I have a pre fastback roller that'll eventually get a Maico 360 square barrel engine to replicate the '67 Maico Sprite. I also have another pre fastback frame enroute from the USA that may get my 500 Triumph engine.
Looks like and American Eagle 405 Sprite engine with the gearbox chopped off.
What's the story behind it Alison?
Mark, They are a nice looking engineThey are indeed a nice looking motor Dave. The have a very strong similarity to the Husky engine, the main difference being the centre exhaust port as opposed to the Husky's side configuration. For your information the man who designed and produced the Sprite (American Eagle/Alron) engine occasionally drops in on this forum for a look-see. We've been working together on a project that's had to take a small respite while I sorted some other stuff. I'll be getting back into it after Easter.
Ok you thought the Alron story might have come to an end. I've just been informed that a brother of one of the VMXWA members has bought an Alron in England. I'm looking into it!!!
Ok you thought the Alron story might have come to an end. I've just been informed that a brother of one of the VMXWA members has bought an Alron in England. I'm looking into it!!!
My ‘bro in England has just purchased an Alron/Sprite with a Talon motor.
The bike is missing it’s points cover,he believes there may be a Talon motor in Aussie somewhere (he noticed postings on OZVMX)
He's looking for parts ;D
Unless your related to a Pom in the club then it's a different bike
The bike is missing it’s points cover,he believes there may be a Talon motor in Aussie somewhere (he noticed postings on OZVMXAlison...I reckon he'd have more luck finding a points cover in the UK or even better, the USA than here in OZ. I only know of one Talon embossed engine here and it's spoken for! The Talon is just a model name for the American Eagle 405, it's doubtful to the extreme that he'd have an Alron. Get your bro to read the previous 34 pages of posts, where he'll learn that the Sprite/AE/Alron are the same bike! The differences are that the outer cases on the American Eagle/Talon are embossed with the AE or Talon logo. Everythings interchangable though.
I must bring you to task John, there have been at least two or three of Alrons race VMX over the years including the 400 that raced at the first couple of Amaroo events and Joneseys 400 that appeared at a Nepean dirt track just prior to him selling it.
Yeh, yr right Mark. I was thinking 250 Alrons tho. Snowy may yet get his 400 on the track & knowing the owner of the Qld one (400) it may yet get on the track too, even if only briefly.Oh, you didn't specify which size. It wouldn't be hard to be the only 250 OSSA Alron to be on the track when it's the only one they built. ;D For what it's worth, Jonesy'll be debuting his pre fastback American Eagle 405 at CD7.
It wouldn't be hard to be the only 250 OSSA Alron to be on the track when it's the only one they built. ;D
Jonesy'll be debuting his pre fastback American Eagle 405 at CD7.
Has anyone caught up with Roger Weir # 334,whom rode for Alron Industries at the Manjimup April 7th 1974. ?
cheers
I have noticed tho that there are 2 diff types of forks used by Sprite,
I have noticed tho that there are 2 diff types of forks used by Sprite, so wondered if they used REH productes for a while until they cast their own.That's correct JC. REH forks were used prior to Sprite making their own. Alison, to my knowledge Ceriani forks weren't use on production bikes....not sure of the slimnline reference.
Alison, to my knowledge Ceriani forks weren't use on production bikes....not sure of the slimnline reference.
Alison, if you look at the BVM in VMX #30 the forks on the bike on top of p27 are diff to forks on the feature bike
errr,isn't (hope ;D ;D) thats what the jar of vaselines doing in the piccie for?, :P
Jeff, i did indeed heat the bearing and freeze the crank just added a bit of vaso ;D to the shaft and used the crank tool to pull the crank into the bearing to make sure it was all the way home ;) makes the job easy using the right tools.
The husky gearbox won't work in a Sprite/AE husky clone motorNow you've gone and thrown a spanner into the works Petey! ;D Perhaps the Dongmeister can enlarge on what's needed as he apparently uses Husky trannys in his American Eagle racers.
It almost seems like they'd bolted the engine to the brackets and then installed the engine and welded the brackets to the frame.:o :o. Don't do that, you are reminding of working on Pommy cars of the period :-[. Ahhhhhhhhhhhh.
Al the eagle has landed and will come from Un Zud with roger Eagle 405 parts at C/DBelieve it or not, I understand this cryptic message. ...."Jonesys special Klub Kevlar American Eagle stickers featuring Roger Ramjet and the American Eagles (get it?) will be personally delivered from New Zealand at CD7 by Komrade Jolley.
http://ausvmx.ning.com/photo/sprite-405-special?context=latest (http://ausvmx.ning.com/photo/sprite-405-special?context=latest)Looks like a trials bike to me. Nice looking bike in the minimalist genre.
Link is to pic of Darren's (see pg37) 405 Sprite tho't to be built for the Welsh 2 day Enduro
http://ausvmx.ning.com/photo/sprite-405-special?context=latest (http://ausvmx.ning.com/photo/sprite-405-special?context=latest)Looks like a trials bike to me. Nice looking bike in the minimalist genre.
Link is to pic of Darren's (see pg37) 405 Sprite tho't to be built for the Welsh 2 day Enduro
Alron reunion? Now that's something I'd love to be at. Imagine the horror stories and bullshit flying at that little soiree! ;D
Does anyone know what happened to Richard Bauckham 64 Sprite featured in VMX mag #36 as he intended on selling it, at the time the story was printed.That bike is in the UK Alison. Talk to Ken about chasing it through Chris but getting bikes out of the UK ain't easy as you well know.
Words and Photos by Chris Malam
QuoteAl the eagle has landed and will come from Un Zud with roger Eagle 405 parts at C/DBelieve it or not, I understand this cryptic message. ...."Jonesys special Klub Kevlar American Eagle stickers featuring Roger Ramjet and the American Eagles (get it?) will be personally delivered from New Zealand at CD7 by Komrade Jolley.
Firko, did Jonesy have any offers. ;)
(http://i781.photobucket.com/albums/yy94/HuskyRacer/ClassicDirt7026.jpg?t=1278547201)
Apparently the conundrum is you have to have a skinfull to ride the thing ;D - mutually exclusive :D.
Firko, did Jonesy have any offers. ;)
(http://i781.photobucket.com/albums/yy94/HuskyRacer/ClassicDirt7026.jpg?t=1278547201)
Firko, did Jonesy have any offers.People were ringing him all weekend offering all sorts of bizarre items from sex toys, broken Chinese pit bikes, right through to half a bottle of Apple cinnamon schnapps and even yes....a good old fashioned rogering ;D. He's making a start on the 250 American Eagle as soon as he's finished with the new go fast engine for Black Betty for the serious dirt track Nats stuff.
Alison
Heading to Steves this W/end
See you at the Exclusive Sprite parking area of the pits ;D
Cheers
good chance the homeless people from Southern cross might make an appearance
(http://img.villagephotos.com/p/2005-8/1062154/a%20e%201.jpg)
Sprite/American Eagle405 Talon-Brand Name Roulette - 1971
American Eagle arrived on the USA motocross scene in 1967 with a big ad budget and small racing team (that included a young Brad Lackey). But, in truth, there was no American Eagle motorcycle factory. The American Eagle was a private-label bike that was built by Sprite Developments in Oldbury, England by Frank Hipkin. Brits could buy the bike as the Sprite 405 Talon, Americans were offered the bike as the American Eagle 405 Talon, Australians knew it as the Alron 405 and Belgiums thought it was the BVM 405. All the bikes were identical, with the exception of the American bikes having “American Eagle” cast into the engine case. Amazingly all the different national distributors tried to pretend that the Sprites were designed in the home countries. It wasn’t until many years later that each country learned the truth about the “other” Sprites.
Most distressing of the “clone engineering” behind the $1195 American Eagle 405 Talon was that the engine itself was a clone. It was an Italian-built copy of a late ‘60s, four-speed, 399cc, Husqvarna engine. Many Husqvarna parts would fit in the Italian engine, but not all. Most American Eagles racers remember the gearbox with particular distaste. Additionally the Talon had a Sprite-built fork that was a direct copy of a Ceriani fork.
Sprite Developments in England showed rapid growth from 1964 to 1974. Owner Frank Hipkin started building lightweight, Reynolds tubing frame kits for Villiers, Triumph Cub, Husqvarna and Maico engines. Amazingly enough, if Hipkin had kept the Sprite motorcycle company small he might have lasted longer. Success killed the Sprite, Talon, Alron and BVM. When Hipkin started exporting Sprites in large numbers the British government closed the tax loopholes that Sprite was using and, following the collapse of the U.S. American Eagle distributor (Galaxy Wholesale in Garden Grove, California), the financial losses were too great to absorb.
Today, Sprite Development still exists, but it builds RVs, caravans and motor homes.
WHAT THEY COST
Although it was quite rare to find the Sprite or it’s stepchilds on EBay, collectors don’t seem to be drawn to them. This un-restored example was purchased in 2006 for $2600. A good core (original but in need of restoration) Husqvarna of the same year would easily go for twice this amount.
MODELS
Eagle 125 – CMXR (125cc Sachs engine), Eagle 250 – GMXR (250cc Husqvarna clone), and the Eagle 405 – TMXR (405cc Husqvarna clone).
WHAT TO LOOK FOR
The Eagles came with several different fuel tanks (2.0gal or 2.5gal) made of either fiberglass or aluminum and either Dunlop Sports knobbies or trials tires. The side panels are aluminum as are the fenders and the front and rear hubs are polished aluminum. If these items are in good shape, the bike will make a beautiful addition to any collection.
PARTS SUPPLY
It is very difficult to find parts for the Sprites. Vintage Husky in San Marcos, CA at 760-744-8052 may be able to help. In Europe, try Frans Munsters at vintage@fmunsters.nl.
looks like i might have bought a american eagle 405,then was talking to a mate of mine who races vmx and he said yeh,i have a alron400 in the shed -so there is another one
http://www.vintagemx.us/cgi-bin/largephoto.cgi?C=BSrHS4AXuUbT8tmhThanks CG,
(http://img.villagephotos.com/p/2005-8/1062154/starmaker%20early.jpg)
(http://img.villagephotos.com/p/2005-8/1062154/starmaker%20late.png.jpg)
(http://img.villagephotos.com/p/2005-8/1062154/Brian%20N.jpg)
Brian Nadin on a Sprite Villiers in 1964.
Proof enough that Starmakers where/are pre65I don't think anyone ever said they weren't Alison. Craig Elliot among others has raced his Starmaker powered Cotton in pre 65 in the past. It's never been in doubt. ;)
QuoteProof enough that Starmakers where/are pre65I don't think anyone ever said they weren't Alison. Craig Elliot among others has raced his Starmaker powered Cotton in pre 65 in the past. It's never been in doubt. ;)
I'll ask AJ for you Alison. I think he had a couple made up for Roger Ramjet......which is for sale if you're interested.(the bike, not the cable ;D)
Redline XL350 Honda are first off the rank.
I'll take the MZ in the backgroundYou did get me thinkin ;D and I found a full photo of her (MX 69 ISDT) !! Should be a "he", cause it looks like a right work horse too. ;) 8) Have you got any history on them JC.? cheers A
I'll take the MZ in the backgroundYou did get me thinkin ;D and I found a full photo of her (MX 69 ISDT) !! Should be a "he", cause it looks like a right work horse too. ;) 8) Have you got any history on them JC.? cheers A
No Alison. (I wish) I hated them back in the day. Regarded them as old-fashioned outdated heavyweight iron-curtain slugs, but have come to appreciate them more recently - at least the circa73 & later models.I'll take the MZ in the backgroundYou did get me thinkin ;D and I found a full photo of her (MX 69 ISDT) !! Should be a "he", cause it looks like a right work horse too. ;) 8) Have you got any history on them JC.? cheers A
Sprite at ths UK Stafford classic bike show 18/10/10
(http://i55.tinypic.com/ictx92.jpg)
WWOOOOOHHHHOOOO She runs-real quiet 2 stroker too "GO the mighty Villiers" ;D He found the problem of cluth slipping while kicking it over,opened it up and it was full of automatic transmission fluid. :((http://i323.photobucket.com/albums/nn458/mx250syd/icons/smiley-happy085-1.gif) 8)
Experenced in the past ATF causing clutch slipping best to use plain mc engine oil in primary cover..anyone else had this problem ??
cheers A
Hay Al what bikes are you taking to C/d?
Re: Does not ship to Aust
http://cgi.ebay.com.au/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=160565477316&ssPageName=STRK:MEWAX:IT#shId
(Thats what it looked like at 10/08/03 - I wonder what it looks like now :P).
Try Maicobuddy maicobuddy@yahoo.com for buying help within the USA ;). I've used him with success - a good guy 8).
Sprite founder Frank Hipkin has emailed me with comments on the American Eagle in Toms museum. Here's an excerpt from his email..........It's all about detail ;D
'regarding the 405 Eagle in Whites Museum of old motorcycles, as you are already aware of, that model is not true. The main thing wrong is a 2 gallon aluminium tank, the model should be in bright orange or blue Fiberglas, the seat is off the 405 or 250 CC fast back, 1971 onwards. Also the front mudguard would have been a steel chrome plated, would have a steel bracket attached underneath the forks'
A FEW HOURS LATER:
I've just noticed that the American Eagle is also fitted with Ceriani forks instead of the original Sprite items.
Sprite founder Frank Hipkin has emailed me with comments on the American Eagle in Toms museum. Here's an excerpt from his email..........It's all about detail ;D
'regarding the 405 Eagle in Whites Museum of old motorcycles, as you are already aware of, that model is not true. The main thing wrong is a 2 gallon aluminium tank, the model should be in bright orange or blue Fiberglas, the seat is off the 405 or 250 CC fast back, 1971 onwards. Also the front mudguard would have been a steel chrome plated, would have a steel bracket attached underneath the forks'
A FEW HOURS LATER:
I've just noticed that the American Eagle is also fitted with Ceriani forks instead of the original Sprite items.
He may be an expert and it may well be a bike that he built, but I am more than happy to take anyones money who says they are Ceriani. They are not. They are MPs! I have never ever ever seen Cerianis with a drain hole in the side ~ ever. In fact the only forks I have sene that do them like that are ..... MPs!
Sprite forks? What are they Mark.....?
You learn something everyday, so please educate me.
Sprite was very successful during the late 60s with a lot of good wins in the UK with riders of the calibre of Terry Chalinor, Terry Ledbitter and Vic Eastwood racing them.
Hipkin; "All the motocross frames are made from 1.5mm, 1" diamter ERW tube"
It never gave any problem at all within the drive train, every bike with the Ossa motor was like that out of square
hey guess what it doesn't matter what angle the motor is at as long as the sprockets lineup
http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/American-Eagle-Sprite-/120739879003?pt=US_motorcycles&hash=item1c1ca8585b
Murray, 36mm forks on the MetisseAre you sure? I was pretty sure they're 35mm Betors on the later model Micro Metisse (like my '74 1" tubing framed version). The 32mm triple clamps are the same casting as the larger 35mm clamps so they can be bored out to suit the bigger forks.
JC/Firko/Tossa
The long lost Blue Alron has been found and ID this w/end. We think this was the only one-off frame ever produced in Perth :-\
I'm just catching up on the forum after months away & I'm amazed, to say the least, that the thread hasn't 'lit-up' over it.
I've tracked down Brian Clarkson. He thinks he still may have his records from the shop at Granville. If he has (& can find it) he maybe able to check how many Alrons he sold, but he lost a lot of paperwork in a flood a few months ago, so we maybe too late. He's fairly sure he sold "3 or 4 x400s" ("People liked their grunty power") & "2 x250s" - MXs). He says the 400's g'box wasn't any/much worse than the Husky's (which he rode for many yrs prior to the Alron) as far as he can recall but rings/pistons didn't last as long. Someone stole his 400 from a friends place at Bathurst. He sold lots of Rickmans for them too - mostly road ones but "quite a few VR-engine MXs" too. He knows nothing of the supposed Rickman 250 Enduro RL supposed built & "sold about 30" of.
there's no way it's pre 65 legal.
Due to tank,sideplates and plastic mudguards ?I had another look and it's legal Alison. Frank's a bit sketchy about when they first Starmaker motor in the Sprite which gave me doubts. All good now.
(http://i146.photobucket.com/albums/r259/vmx247/SpriteVilliers-1.jpg)
Mark this a birds eye view of the headSolid Gold Dave ;D.....The head's a genuine GYT so the engine seems to be a GYT or MX version going by what we can see (the cylinder, head and carby insulator). Someone's done it right back in the day with the exception of that fugly pipe. If it's made for a Hodaka 125 it'll be all wrong for the DT1. A GYT pipe would be the perfect period piece for it. Or Bassani,Hooker or Torque Industries items from the day.
have you found a YZ125 A tank yet.I tried to call you before.I may have found one thanks to another forum member. The phone's been busy as hell this morning.
I have just notice that the DT1 engine has Left and right gear change shaft, is this normal for this model.Yeah, the shaft goes right through with a spline on either side. My little DT1 flat tracker is set up for right foot change.
Mystery Head:
Something bothered me about the head on Daves Sprite/DT1 that required me take a trip out to the shed for some detective work. I've just come in from examining all 3 of my GYT heads, discovering that all of them have two plugs as shown in the head on the centre barrel in my photo a few posts ago, one upright in the centre of the combustion chamber and the other at 45 degrees pointing towards the front. If Dave's is a genuine Yamaha item, we've opened up another chapter in the weird and wacky world of GYT parts. One explanation might be that besides the differences between chrome and iron barrels on DT1MX and DT1-GYT engines, there might be a difference in heads as well. If not, where does the single plug GYT head fit into the picture?Quotehave you found a YZ125 A tank yet.I tried to call you before.I may have found one thanks to another forum member. The phone's been busy as hell this morning.
In the photos from this thread the GYT head seems to have only one plug or is it my aging eyesight?Hmmmmm, so they do. So, that opens up a new situation as to the differences between twin plug and single plug GYT heads (besides the obvious ::) ) and what engine configuration either came on.
Hi VMX247,try Ray Eason at Motorcycle Engineering perth.someone on here will have his #.Next vmxwa event is Darkan Speedway Track venue.cheers a
I hope to get out soon, maybe even the upcoming wa meet if I can get brake cables made, do you know anyone in the Perth area who could help me out?
So since reading the posts on here I am now confused as to what should I do regarding my engine, should I run it or go buy something more reliable. I want to race it but not sure the 405 will take much abuse. Does anyone know where I could find a rod kit for the 405 and piston?
Firko wanted the frame only,That's not true and you know it Dave. I wanted the whole bike but you said that you wanted to keep the GYT motor. I was happy to take the roller as you offered it to me, I could fit my Maico engine but you seem to have forgotten your own words that I could have first go at it. Seeing that you've reneged on the deal Dave, you can stick it where the sun doesn't shine ;).
Hi VMX247,try Ray Eason at Motorcycle Engineering perth.someone on here will have his #.Next vmxwa event is Darkan Speedway Track venue.cheers a
I hope to get out soon, maybe even the upcoming wa meet if I can get brake cables made, do you know anyone in the Perth area who could help me out?
Offers are off, 1 hour time limit is over, you had your chance to make me an offer, the DT1/Sprite is not for sale end of story.
Waiting on the offer Mark, Mark you already have a frame, why do you what another sprite frame.Dave..Get it right FFS, I wanted the whole bike or at least the roller, as per our deal. All I've got is a frame that needs a fair bit of work, you've got a complete bike with all the stuff I needed.
I would have thought firko would know betterHe does now ::).
Next Cyclegod posted the Gumtree ad of the SDR for sale again in the Perth Metro which is the very motor model used in the 1973 writeup of the Alron down to the correct Amal carby plus the SDR pipe is also what was fitted UNBELIEVABLE ;D
You'd have to really, really want this tank ::). I gave a better one than this to a fellow forum member.
http://www.ebay.com/itm/american-eagle-405-alron-405-gas-tank-ahrma-/150625895126?hash=item231200c2d6&item=150625895126&pt=Motorcycles_Parts_Accessories&vxp=mtr (http://www.ebay.com/itm/american-eagle-405-alron-405-gas-tank-ahrma-/150625895126?hash=item231200c2d6&item=150625895126&pt=Motorcycles_Parts_Accessories&vxp=mtr)
You'd have to really, really want this tank ::). I gave a better one than this to a fellow forum member.looks a bit short and cant find a simalor 405 tank picture. Yes pricey!
http://www.ebay.com/itm/american-eagle-405-alron-405-gas-tank-ahrma-/150625895126?hash=item231200c2d6&item=150625895126&pt=Motorcycles_Parts_Accessories&vxp=mtr (http://www.ebay.com/itm/american-eagle-405-alron-405-gas-tank-ahrma-/150625895126?hash=item231200c2d6&item=150625895126&pt=Motorcycles_Parts_Accessories&vxp=mtr)
did you need it back?Nah mate, I've got enough stuff cluttering my life as it is. enjoy!
looks a bit short and cant find a simalor 405 tank picture. Yes pricey!Keep looking Alison, it's the optional 1.5 gallon jobby.
I have a 125 Hodaka powered American Eagle. Does anyone know how many of these were made?
does a hodaka have enough power to pull a water pipe sprite frame around?It's a fastback frame which is a shitload lighter than the early waterpipe monstrocity (sadly, I can say such things now without the fear of a follow up nasty email from Frank, i miss the old bugger already :'(). It's still comparitively heavy though, being made for a 250/400.
w the caption, "Just another Hodaka-powered American Eagle... Another what?"
vmx60The name of the city was manitoba canada all i know it was a young couples shop no names sorry hope this helped a bit cheers
to what i can recall to what dad said the oil/gas company did have the 150 frame kits and the engines fitted over there (USA /canada) i will try and find out for you the names to which they went hope thats ok :-\
thanks
found out it was suberbane gas and frames were sent to a dealer in canada to have the hodaka wombat engines fitted still searching for dealers name and city .
I wondered if you'd see that Firko, got sent photos of it by Steve-the guy with a great collection in the Taranaki which was in the VMX magazine.Is this the sprite/maico restorer in NZ.Could we possably get some photos from him Tony?
Suggested he try contacting you & to look for this thread. Let me know if you'd like his contact details
Not sure how much he's done to it lately or if he's even made a start on restoring it yet, has an even more interesting bike that he's been researching lately which the swedes are still trying to work out how it got to NZI wondered if you'd see that Firko, got sent photos of it by Steve-the guy with a great collection in the Taranaki which was in the VMX magazine.Is this the sprite/maico restorer in NZ.Could we possably get some photos from him Tony?
Suggested he try contacting you & to look for this thread. Let me know if you'd like his contact details
Cheers A
QuoteHave just discovered another 'offspring' - 73 Tyran 400. Will try to post pics shortly & yes, its a rebadged Sprite that was apparently sold by Mitsubishi motors as a TyranThe Tyran was a model name for the American Eagle as was Talon, Renagade, Cherokee etc. You know how Americans just loved to give models flash names rather than the simpler way of the rest of the world. ;D Mitsubishi Motors took over the distributorship of American Eagle after the McCormick Corporation went belly up. Alan has a Tyran 125 but it's a rebadged Wassel. They were also marketed in the USA as the Penton Mudlark. The 405 Tyran differed to the American Eagle only in that the American Eagle logo wasn't embossed into the cases, it's more akin to the Alron and BVM........yet another mystery needing further investigation.
It might just be worth taking a punt on the jig, if only to make a frame for myself.But in the sober reality of morning I think I'll pass. It'd cost a fortune to ship it plus, I really don't want to get into the frame business at this late stage of my life ::).
JC/Firko/Ken thought your VMX story on the Alron would appear before thisI got a bit detuned on it for a while then got sick and detuned on everything. Frank's passing hasn't helped the cause either. I'll get back to it one of these days.
Bloody hell just received the Old Bike Australasia issue 35 mainly covers road bikeQUOTE
Has a three page colour writeup on the Alron 400 story
Love the feature heading
THE ALRON not quite right
Story by Jim Scaysbrook
JC/Firko/Ken thought your VMX story on the Alron would appear before this ;D
Cheers
Well I am spewing, because I went to a vintage pony express at Malanda on the weekend & didn't take my camera with me . Low & behold , there was an Alron with an Ossa 250 motor on display . It was in immaculate condition & the owner said that it was unrestored . I have since managed to track down his phone number, so i will see if JC can get some photos of it , as he lives up that way .
I go to Bakersfield on occasion. I'm just sayin'. ;DNo, no, no........ ;D . I'm over my Sprite/AE/Alron period and I reckon I might have reached saturation point with my DT1 hot rods ;). As soon as the 'Hindall Brothers' are completed I'm returning to my beloved Maicos, my long overlooked Triumphs and the big Yamaha 750 dirt tracker project. Having said that, the DT1/ American Eagle would make a fantastic pre 70 project for somebody.
A touch of SPRITE DNA
Hi all just a note if any of you are on Facebook on my time line there's a short film on it you see dave smith putting together a sprite maico it's. Stephen hipkin so add me
new sprite alron bvm Facebook group started by stev have a look
(http://[url=http://[IMG]http://i146.photobucket.com/albums/r259/vmx247/Sprite1.jpg)](http://i146.photobucket.com/albums/r259/vmx247/Sprite1.jpg)[/url][/img]
cheers Firko here's a couple back at ya ;D
Hi VMX247
I'm ploughing my way through this thread, your scans make for interesting reading, could you please let me know what the book is,
new sprite alron bvm Facebook group started by stev have a look
https://www.facebook.com/groups/812399278818904/ (https://www.facebook.com/groups/812399278818904/)
Greetings from the mother land UK.... :)
(http://i146.photobucket.com/albums/r259/vmx247/12388163_1052113788143684_1601948602_n%202_zpsfljsfw49.jpg) (http://s146.photobucket.com/user/vmx247/media/12388163_1052113788143684_1601948602_n%202_zpsfljsfw49.jpg.html)