Electric Starter

peter.clews

Forum User
Non-VOC Member
I fitted a Grosset starter about 3 years ago. It made it possible for me to continue using my Rapide. I am interested in other experiences and also ideas on its longevity .
 

Tom Gaynor

Well Known and Active Forum User
VOC Member
Frog's leg

I fitted a Grosset starter this year, and have done about 1100 miles thus far. I reckon it has increased the pleasure i get from the bike (an often reluctant cold-starting C Shadow) by about 80%. And on the button, it starts easily when cold, instantly when hot. It also offers the pleasure of leaving inquirers stupefied, muttering "electric starting in 1951!" as one rides off.
 

rapcom

Well Known and Active Forum User
VOC Member
You're not trying hard enough in the wind-up stakes, Tom. I had one couple convinced that GPS satnav was an optional extra on my Knight !
Dick
 

BlackLightning998

Well Known and Active Forum User
VOC Member
Mine had electric start fitted by Terry Prince in Australia when it was rebuilt (before I bought it back). I've done 1100 miles now without problem - it starts easily cold and hot, now I just use the kickstart to demonstrate to people and for the odd bit of fun - rather than the challenge of starting it.

The instructions were quite scary in terms of what you can't do, but it seems to have been robust enough in service so far, although I guess that 1100 miles really is nothing. I understand that some other members with many more miles under their belt have had to replace the shear pin up to three times.

I do find the not being able to freewheel backwards when in gear and the clutch pulled a little bit frustrating - but once you get used to it, it becomes part of your riding style to either position the machine where you want it, or stop and select neutral before paddling in.

Mine should'nt deteriorate in exterior condition considering the breather is being decent enough to deposit large amounts of engine oil on it!!!!

Stuart
 

Tom Gaynor

Well Known and Active Forum User
VOC Member
Anachronisms...

You're not trying hard enough in the wind-up stakes, Tom. I had one couple convinced that GPS satnav was an optional extra on my Knight !
Dick
When I think of the computer storage media available even in the seventies, can you imagine how big a 1951 SatNav would have been? You'd probably have to keep the bike in a garage modelled on the Cardington airship sheds....
 
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