dad was passionate about Beesa's due to their connection with the SA police force of which my grandfather was a member. His pride and joy was a 1971 Thundebolt in police rig which we used to take on long rides in the SA countryside. At the time we thought the Beesa was fast! I particularly remember suckling in under the canvas lap rug in a rainstorm around Clare.
This 1967 Thunderbolt was a poor cousin to the 71 and used for parts but when I received it in early 2000 it was running but a bit of a 'bitsa'. After several restorations she is back to original glory (except for the necessary oil pump and ignition modification.
This Beesa is my pride and joy amongst a stable of fun bikes (1986 Harley Softail and 2000 BMW K1200RS). She is ridden often but the highlight for me is the Distinghuished Gentlemens Ride each year where my daughter and I go full out with dressing up.
Beesas may have been second cousins to the more glamorous Bonnevilles but they have been the stars in our family and I know my daughter will have the same fun with it when her time comes.
Read More ∨
Comments