Featured Honda Ns400

Apologies if you've already seen the pictures in another section here, but I'm very chuffed with my new purchase. I've been after one of these for a while and for one to turn up almost on my doorstep (12 miles away) was a bonus. The previous owner has done a lot of work on the motor and it shows. When I rode it, the engine ran really well (typical 2 stroke, nothing much happens 'til you hit 6000 rpm then it takes off like a scalded cat!)., I'd almost resigned myself to shoving it in the garage for winter and just Sorning it until the Springtime, (Sorn? that's telling the UK driving authority you aren't using it on the public roads, for our overseas friends) but the temptation of riding it straight away was too much, so I've taxed and insured it so I can ride it immediately. The bodywork is showing its 35 years age in places, but I'm just going to ride it whilst the weather here remains benign and when the really bad weather does arrive, I'll consider some cosmetic improvements as and when.

 

I'll try to get over to Squires on it before the winter takes hold. I'll certainly get to Seaways at Fridaythorpe, as it's not too far from where I live. The NS is without doubt the best 2 stroke motorbike I've owned and I've been lucky enough to own quite a few, including a KH750 Kawasaki.

 

What happened to the two bikes after Paul died Eldon?

 

I don't know if my bike has a Leeds connection, but it is sporting a rear numberplate with a York dealership's moniker.

 

With rain forecast for this afternoon (Tuesday), I had my first proper outing this morning on the NS. A 50-mile round trip to Seaways cafe at the wonderfully named Fridaythorpe village. (You are permitted to visit there on other days of the week btw. ). The little bike performed great, the only hiccup being when it ran dry going onto reserve, the fuel tap is rather stiff to operate, and the engine died before I could get it changed over. I then had a few anxious moments trying to re start it (kick start only) at the side of the road. I will also have to get used to turning the fuel tap on and off as required. You do get spoiled with 'modern' bikes. Lol

 

I don't know if it's still the case, but back in the 80's and 90's there were licencing restrictions on bikes over 400cc for the home (Japanese) market so 400cc bikes were very popular there.

 

Let the tinkering commence :

 

The front mudguard is back from the painters, I'm hoping to get the fuel tank, fairing and side panels back in the next week or so. If the weather stays nice I might be out on the old girl shortly.

 

Well, I had hoped to be out riding the NS today instead of making this post, but those of you who may have seen my 'Skydiving without a parachute' thread in the Lounge section will know why.

I've got everything back from the painters, so its just a case of getting all the parts refitted and then waiting until I'm fit enough to ride it again. My son helped me get the fuel tank back in situ over the weekend and we managed to get her fired up after what must be at least a 5 month winter break. Everything bodes well, so mebbe come the summer I might be able to get out on the old girl. That goes for my other bikes too of course.

 

That's it done! Can't wait until I can ride it again.