Phil Rudge, a photographer in England (see his work here), has just finished restoring an eponymous bicycle; a 1931 Rudge 'Ulster' 500cc ohv, with four valves and four speeds. The Ulster started life in 1929 (an example of which I owned until very recently), as a replica of Graham Walker's Ulster TT winner of 1928. That first year model had a total-loss lubrication system, which was upgraded to a proper recirculating oiling system in 1930. That first year Ulster was definitely a 'TT Replica' model, being almost a bang-on copy of Walker's bike. As time went on, as is typical with most race replicas, the Ulster remained the flagship of the Rudge family, but lost its track status to a new model called, appropriately, the TT Replica, which was intended for racing.
Phil's bike epitomizes all that is appealing about early post-Vintage motorcycling; light, simple, with everything motorcyclists expect today - electric lights, a good turn of speed, and excellent brakes. As an added bonus, the bike is simply gorgeous.
Phil writes:
"Hi Paul,
I met you...at Brooklands the year before last.
Love your blog. I have just finished restoring a 31 Ulster, bought in bits on Ebay May 09.
Standard bore and low miles, 1935 tax disc in holder seems that was when it was last on the road.
Only 5 on Rudge register.
If you want to try it out next time you are in UK... you are most welcome.
Cheers, Phil"
I certainly will!
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