Modern four-stroke motorcycles may rule the roost on the highways, racetracks and trails but for one day a year two-stroke-powered motorcycles throw their own party and ask the four strokers to park on the street. That event (held this year at Advanced Motion Controls in Camarillo) is the 2 Stroke Extravaganza and judging from the participation, there are still plenty of two-stroke aficionados ready to carry on the tradition of mixing their gas and oil and leaving in a small puff of smoke when they accelerate out of sight.
I learned a lot about my bike (a ’67 Yamaha Twin Jet 100), met some great folks and whiffed the sweet smell of Castrol oil. I left with only one burning question: “Where was Harry Klemm, the two-stroke tuning legend?” Maybe next year, Harry?
I remember when: This bike was parked next to me and the poor owner had to listen to 568 people tell him that this was “just like” their first bike (because it was most people’s first bike). The owner’s dad bought this as a basket case, rebuilt it and gifted it to his son.
Parking lot find: The event was free to everyone so I don’t know why the owner left this pretty Bultaco in the parking lot.
Two-stroke trailer: The owner of these bikes explained that he could only fit so many of his collection on the trailer. Would love to visit this dude’s workshop.
Don’t let the size fool you: This amazing Suzuki was purchased in rough shape and massaged to its current state. In the right hands, this 250cc motorcycle could run circles around bike four times its displacement.
Spanish silver: A Bultaco not much different than this got $44,000 at the Mecum Auction last year. This one (and the CZ and Husky behind it) was restored by Monkey Smart Moto Restorations, (805) 443-5108.
Special effects: Who said two-stoke motorcycles are easy to work on? There were plenty of complex builds at the event. This one and the one below were in a class by themselves.
Before Hodaka: Pabatco (Pacific Basin Trading Company) imported these Yamaguchi motorcycles until Yamaguchi went belly up in 1963. Hodaka made the motors so Pabatco asked them to deliver complete bikes. Hodaka was born.
The kids are alright: Scooter riders were well represented.
Heavy metal: The blue scooter above this one was the choice transportation of England’s Mods. This one must be for heavy metal or punk rockers.
European strokers: The MV Agusta (Italy) and Bultaco (Spain) are both examples of bikes I’d raid my 401k to own. Out of the entire show, I only saw a few bikes for sale.
Mach speed: Kawasaki H1 Mach III’s were well represented and that’s no surprise. These bikes are some of the most cherished two strokes on the planet. This 1972 is claimed to be made on the first day of that year’s production.
Biased opinion: I worked at Suzuki when the GTs were sold and in my humble opinion, they are the most enjoyable motorcycle I have ever ridden. The power-to-weight ratio was perfect. The lack of engine braking made it super smooth and brakes and suspension were dialed.
Tasteful presentation: Some builders go way overboard with their Yamaha RZ 350 builds but this restoration is pitch perfect. Even the custom-painted helmet is spectacular. Nice job all around.
Home schooled: I learned so much about my Yamaha Twin Jet 100 (front) from people who are very familiar with them. It was the only Twin Jet at the event and I got a lot of positive reaction. This bike screams for a 100.
Yamaha trade: If the owner of this Yamaha offered to make a straight trade for my Twin Jet, I’d have a tough decision to make. Fortunately, nobody offered me a trade.
Acquired taste: I don’t feel this Jawa was the best looking bike at the ball, but that doesn’t mean I wouldn’t love cruising around Ventura County on it.
