Editors Page
 Hi Gang,

Just a short note from the Editor of the Flexi Flier, this page has been put together to show people what we do with our KETTLES, the article is about “A CANDY LAVENDER J”, some of you will have read the article but the majority of “SURFERS” out there won’t.

This story starts in America………

For those of the members that don’t know about the Minnesota Candy Lavender J, Steve, was in the States in 1984/5. He was wearing a Suzuki T Shirt and a bloke that he met commented that a buddy of his had an old Suzuki in his lounge. Steve had to meet this fella who kept a Suzuki in his lounge (Home from home!) Steve expected to see a 125 or 250 or even a GN (Custom). As the door of the lounge opened my word, it was a 1972 J. t had only 4000 miles, deposit receipt, bill of sale etc etc. Larry was a fine fella but made it clear to my offers that the J was not and would never be for sale.

We swapped numbers and carried on with the vacation, and had many thoughts of that chance encounter of a bike and its owner.

The scene is now set!!!

 Long after, we moved to the Republic of Ireland, but recently somehow from 4500 miles away and 20 years later Larry tracked me down. “Hi its Larry, Do you want the bike”? Larry who? “Larry in Minnesota” “You bet I do”. American Airlines didn’t have a flight till the next day. In my eagerness I calculated how long it would take in my Toyota Hilux!!!! . Took girls out of school, got to Boston, rented an RV (Motor home) and travelled to Minnesota. We contemplated removing bars etc and trying to get the bike into the camper to travel it to Boston and then arranging shipping... My wife commented “Do you realise even if we get the bike in we’ll loose 1 bed space and all the kitchen area? And well have to climb over the bike to get to the toilet and shower – But lets try it anyway” (Yes seriously).Larry was amazed he said “

We Americans are supposed to be crazy but Steve is so bizarre and enthusiastic, that’s why I wanted him to have the buffalo in the first place”.

Anyway sense prevailed and the bike was crated professionally and shipped to its new home. I found those eight weeks so nerve wracking. It arrived complete apart from the embossed generator cover and points cover!!  Replaced with later items en route. Every dog has its day. 

Brief history – 3000 miles in 1st 2 years until 1974. Then 125 miles annually for inspection/service. Current mileage 7000 mile. Original tyres - wheels - chain - sprocket  - paintwork and toolkit complete with points adjuster tool.  
So there you have it folks,” If it’s the KETTLE you want don’t give up!!”
     

This page updated 09 June 2007