BSA Bantam - Michael's CZ

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MICHAEL'S 1950 CZ

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"The Thinking Man's Bantam" (not my quote!)

September 2004 In September 2004 Michael found this very interesting 1950 twin port two stroke CZ at a swap meet. He had just purchased another CZ of the same vintage and there seemed a fair chance that parts from the two bikes could produce one finished restoration. Over a number of nights both bikes were stripped in the shed revealing the usual history of abuse. However, it is interesting to note that the build quality is extremely high (quite a contrast to the Bantams!) and the standard of engineering very advanced for the period. Despite the poor condition of both bikes it has been a pleasure working on them because every step of the way has uncovered more ingenuity.
May 2005 The engines have been stripped down and show signs of hard work and bad mechanics in both cases. The gearchange shaft will need to be re-splined.
8th June 2005 The donor bikes have produced enough parts for a complete 1950 plunger frame bike. Michael is pictured with all the parts - ready to go to the sandblaster.
8th June 2005 That's a whole CZ (minus engine and wheels) lying there on the floor!

15th June 2005 Busy night on the CZ. Michael (above) stipped engine number two which proved to be nearly as abused as the other engine. However the two together should prove to be a good source of spares and will no doubt provide enough parts to build up one motor.The clutch baskets on both motors were broken which gives a good indication of the competance of previous mechanics! Below (left) Michael and Mick check out the alloy frame identification plates which, to prevent damage, have been removed prior to sandblasting the frame. Below (right) Jim and Michael check the bore to determine which barrel should be used.

Okay, I admit it. I forgot to follow Michael's restoration as much as I should have! However, he did finish it and the bike is a dream to ride. My poor 175 D7 Bantam has no hope of keeping up with the CZ. Michael discovered that parts for the model were plentiful with NOS spares available at reasonable prices. The bike looks great and always attracts onlookers whenever we go on a run.

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