Yeah Maybe you are right. I have a CJ 750, Dnepr K750 and M62 all with sidecars, all cossack types but in various stages of restoration, it is finding the time. But, the first bike I rode on the rode on the roads was an old URAL M62 combo (still have it). I like and prefer a sidecar.
I only ever got a solo as you are not allowed to do a test on a sidecar unless there is something medically wrong with you, seriously!!!! Wouldn't you think there would be a separate driver licence for a sidecar only rather then solo?, OH NO !!!!!!
I was looking for something with disk brakes and more modern to tour with. Then again, there are guys with the CJs in China take off and do 3,500 mile trips on them. They say they are very reliable if serviced right. I could possibly put the money into restoring one I suppose.
On the power, the Ural is 650 OHV and the K750 and CJ are 750 sidevalve, the OHV is a stronger engine. But you are probably right, I would be better adding a sidecar to a stronger Guzzi.
What I would love is one of the new URALs with the disk braking on all wheels, they are fast enough for me and have lots of luggage space, spare wheel and you can carry extra fuel too. But, they are big money in UK.
I could get one in the UK but you see we get stung with an illegal tax the Irish government have called Vehicle registration tax when importing a new or used vehicle into Ireland. When I take even a used bike in from Northern Ireland or the UK into Southern Ireland I have to present the vehicle at a car test center here where they take even more money from me.
My 2009 Nevada for example will cost me an additional €240 to 'bring in'. I have read that the Irish Government are being fined by the European Parliament for imposing an illegal tax on it's citizens (the VRT) but are making so much money from it, they just - well - pay the fine!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
So, importing any bike into here of a young age can incur a big VRT cost. I read we are the only country in the EU with this tax!! Not very fair.
Urals Dalesmans do come up from time to time but you are talking in the region of 4-8K sterling for a good one with low mileage.
Ah, yeah I think you are right, I may be better hold out and be ready to pounce when I see a good value sidecar rig come up for sale.
Thanks
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