414 Capra - What's good and what's not?

[Husabergpete]

Inerested in your opinions on the four forteens. The good the bad the ugly and any photos to show it.

All the best

Pete

[414VG]

All good, except some parts availability!!!  i LOVE THEM. Sandy

[Husabergpete]

Sandy,

        That's the issue. I have my eye on a good clean example but - What parts? Anything major like conrods, big ends or pistons?

And what is the take on handling and the 4 speed box?

Pete

[414VG]

Hi Pete, all parts are either available or do come up for sale, the trick is to buy stuff even when you dont need it!!   All consumables are easy to get,even pistons albeit from spain ,so dont expect overnite delivery.!!
Cant comment on handling as i am no expert rider, i just like the bikes...
I would buy another in a flash so you buy yours NOW.  Better than dollars in the bank as well......

Sandy

[Husabergpete]

Sandy,

        That's making the decision much easier. Ta

[mx250]

I'm restoring a VB and haven't ridden a VB or the 414, but reading a number of Track Tests from the period and rider impressions and summaries, the Monty like most European bikes, are set up to suit European type circuits rather then the hard pack high speed circuits of the US and Australia. All aspects of the Monty are set up for short straights, sharp turns and heavy going in sand or mud. I am lead to believe if you ride in these conditions or if it suit your style you'll love the Monty.

Although I haven't had to seek out and buy pistons or con rods etc., I've been pleasantly surprised and pleased to work on the Monty. Most parts are readily available and Monty parts appear regularly on Ebay and trade for reasonable prices. There's good comradie amongst Monty owner and lots of help and encouragement.

Parts are available out of Spain but that is the last place I look. The prices and postage can be outrageous.  As an example I got some original hand grips from Sandifords UK landed in Oz for about $20. Same product advertised in Spain 40Euro's ($A80+ with similar postage). That may be the worst but the Yanks and Poms are so good to work with I would only look to Spain if I was completely stuck. 

[Husabergpete]

Greame,
          Thanks for this great info. The picture is really starting to build. I'll chase the project up.

Pete