Monster Mash!

Following my successful retrieval of a Zontes Monster with seized back brake 100 miles from Colchester to north of King's Lynn, my skills were called upon once more to retrieve another, but this was a family purchase, like this was for the wife. It is a brave man who says no to she who must be obeyed!

45 miles from us a man who had been ill and unable to handle a heavier machine had become better and wanted to trade in his Zontes Monster (New price one year ago £1575 otr). His bike had been lightly used for going to work and occasional forays into the countryside. It had it's first service done, a new rear brake caliper fitted under warranty and it did not need an inspection for another two years (new vehicles in the UK do not need a safety inspection for the first three years after they have been registered, after that it is an annual MOT test). The man who owned the bike set his heart on a nice secondhand CB500F at the local Honda dealer, who offered him a £100 trade in on his bike, or £700 off the price with no trade in. So he took the no trade in option.

The bike was not being used so he decided to list it on Ebay for £400 but put no photos up. No interest, until we ring up and ask about it. We go to see it and with a bit of polish it will look like new. Ask him the minimum he will take and he say £300, she says sold and leaves a deposit with the seller. Arranges insurance and road fund license, today I collect it.

£300 for a 1 year old bike?

Between this one and your friend's, you guys have 500 pounds and TWO running bikes! Not bad!!

Ah but here comes the trick bits, he needs an exhaust for his as the neglect has claimed the down tube. She wants a stainless steel one for hers, so has ordered one that should fit, result, we take off exhaust, repaint in exhaust black, refit chrome heat shield, sell to him for £90, he gets cheaper exhaust than a new one, we only pay £40 for a stainless steel exhaust!