John Bailey's Royal Enfield is a 1928 ladies' model. That was the year when Enfield adopted saddle fuel tanks and girder front forks, placing them at the cutting edge of the technology of the time. Their range consisted of 13 models in total, from a 225cc two-stroke to a 488c OHV four-stroke. Included in the range was a 346cc single with bore and stroke of 70mm by 90mm - dimensions which live on today in the 350 Bullet built in India…

But John's Enfield was built in Redditch nearly 80 years ago. When he bought the bikes in 2003 it was in 'sound condition' but had 'very poor paintwork' and was most reluctant to run - the tank was full of very stale petrol and there was no spark. So John had the bike thoroughly reconditioned and painted. He recommends DH Day of Swindon who overhauled the magneto, and Cleveland Bikespray of Thornaby for the paintwork.

They obviously did a good job, because John's Enfield has gathered quite a fair collection of trophies since the overhaul. It came to our attention when it was judged to be the Best In Show at the Yorkshire Classic Show at Ripley Castle - but John still thinks there's more work to do. 'It could be even better if the wheels were re-spoked and given fresh paint' he says, no doubt with one eye on the awards for his next season of show-going!

The bike's looks and light weight really impressed John, plus the bonus that this is an extremely unusual model. However, he wouldn't recommend buying one in a run-down condition unless you have deep pockets and plenty of patience. 'Buy one that is restored and running,' he says 'because restoration costs are high.' That's true for bike from any era, but when you're looking at ones this old then many parts need to be custom-made. 'Specialist repairers of old and obscure components can be very expensive.' Still, if those trophies balanced on the running board are anything to go by, John's money was well spent… ---------------

Random Enfield stuff on eBay.co.uk

Show Off!

If you'd like to display your classic motorcycle at an event this autumn, there's still a range of shows around the UK, and a whole bunch of trophies and RC prizes up for grabs.

If you enter your bike for the concours competition then most organisers will give you a pass for free or discounted admission, too. Your bike doesn't need to be a very rare model, entirely original or immaculately restored; our judges are often just as interested in well-worn, practically modified popular classics.

So bring your bike along - even if you don't win an award you've still had a cheap day out! Contact the organiser for specific details about each of these events for autumn 2007…