1976 Ural sidecar. Running, but needs restoration.
I bought this bike when I lived in Vietnam 9 years ago. I imported it back to Australia (has original import approval/certificate needed for registration), but I've never returned and have no plans to. Like all vehicles, they rot if not used and this bike deserves a better life.
The bike runs but does not have a roadworthy certificate. I've just spent $1,900 getting it running which fixed the following: Spent about 12.5 hours and parts, including a battery, to get it together and running and getting all the electrics to work. Changed the oils, the carburettor's were both gummed up and blocked (now cleared), the LHS throttle cable was snapped and replaced, etc.
Here's a list of not resolved known issues (from my bike mechanic):
> The switch now turns with any small key or screwdriver. It's been rewired. No key.
> The cylinder head gaskets were leaking quite a bit of oil very soon after first start up, this has settled down somewhat since. The gearbox output shaft seal is leaking. For instance I just took it for a ride of around 3km and on returning the head gaskets were a bit moist from oil, one left one drop after parking but the gearbox leaks.
> The speedometer does not work. I do not know if it is the cable or instrument, or both that is faulty.
> The engine and gearbox have leaks.
> The tyres are all quite old and cracked.
> The brake switch sometimes stays stuck on as the bakelite casing is cracked.
> The tail light lens on the sidecar is missing. A URAL supplier in western NSW sells the the tail light as a unit and it is around $100.
> The carburettors are not genuine ones.
> The battery is not receiving any charge.
> The brakes need a lot more work to set out into proper traffic as opposed to the light test rides I have done.
I'm being transparent with issues as I don't want to waste anyone's time. The bike basically needs a full restoration which would suit someone who wanted a rewarding project.
I love this bike and it pains me to sell it, but I just don't have the time to get it to the right people to restore. I used to ride through the streets of Saigon on it with my 5yr old in the sidecar and we've great memories with it. It's a beauty!
The bike is on the Central Coast.