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ES2 plunger single seat.

Submitted by mark_borutan on Mon, 20/12/2021
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Singles

Need some general advice ref my 1951 plunger ES2 which I recently aquired sporting a very nice non original dual seat.  I wish to fit a single sprung seat but have a couple questions that I cannot see answers for in previous forums, forgive me if I have missed something.  1st, what size should the seat be as I see them advertised as both 'small' and large?

Secondly, from your experience who could supply the correct seat with the right length springs and possibly the fixing bolts etc?

Thank you you in anticipation, Mark.

Submitted by richard_payne on Mon, 20/12/2021

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The type shown in Ian's link with the second lower curved rail is the 'universal' type introduced late in WW2 to enable fitment to all the various types of WD motorcycle - it was supplied with a model-specific fitting kit to take account of the different stud spacing and height. It should be possible to make it fit, put you'll need to source the nose bracket and probably some sort of stud assembly.

To my eyes, the spring looks too loosely coiled...it ought to be possible to find something more original looking.

 

Thanks for the advice so far.  Bearing in mind I have no pattern/fittings to work with I still have a few questions. Firstly, VMCC sell a saddle that has a bracket under the nose, is this what I require or not as this is not present on all saddles being sold?

VMCC classic and vintage motorcycles parts and accessories - Saddle - Large (Wassell) (vmccshop.net)

Secondly, what should the springs look like and how long should they be?  Also can I buy the springs separately and if so from whom?  I guess what I need is from where can I get all the correct parts as 'googling' the part numbers does not return any results!  

Any help most welcome, kind regards, Mark.

Submitted by ian_macdougall on Wed, 22/12/2021

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These are pictures of my 1950 ES2 seat. My guess is that you will have to make your own struts for the nose. If you go that way and need dimensions then please get in touch.

Ian McD

ES2 Seat

ES2 Seat Nose

Submitted by jonathan_newton on Wed, 22/12/2021

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In my experience “single seat” riding is quite restrictive. They tent to keep you in a very fixed position which brings on cramps, and if you are used to a dual you will find you want to move your position as you ride the bends and curves.  With a single and bum pad you do not transfer as smoothly.

 Just a reminder if you are a keen rider

 

 best regards

Jon

Submitted by ian_soady on Wed, 22/12/2021

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... but a dual seat on a plunger sprung bike would be quite uncomfortable. By adjusting the length of the links shown in Ian's pictures you can usually get the saddle in a comfortable position. I don't have a pillion on my ES2 so am able to slide back a bit when I need to.

Submitted by david_cooper on Wed, 22/12/2021

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I raised the cross pin that supports the nose of the saddle of my rigid 16H. Also moved it backwards and reluctantly replaced the saddle springs. It's made it more comfortable. But actually buying new (kevlar lined) jeans the next size up seems to have got rid of the cramp that used to be the problem.

Attachments
20200105_111236.jpg

Submitted by ian_soady on Thu, 23/12/2021

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ES2 seat.. would put a dent in your coccyx if you slid back much! Hence why I have neither carrier nor pillion on mine.

Hi Ian,

Please excuse the delay in replying.  Your pictures have been most useful bearing in mind that I have nothing to go by.  What would help is if you could let me know how long the springs should be?

Kind regards, Mark.

Submitted by ian_macdougall on Fri, 31/12/2021

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Hi Mark

Length 125mm, Wire Diameter 5.6mm, 8 turns

Bottom coil OD 56mm, Top coil OD 42mm

Cheers, Ian

ES2 Seat Spring

 


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