1960 Royal Enfield 248cc Crusader Trials

• Ex-factory Trials machine
• Campaigned for Royal Enfield by Peter Fletcher
• Previously owned by Peter Fletcher and Don Morley
• Extensively used for pre-65 trials by the present owner

This Royal Enfield Crusader factory-prepared trials motorcycle, with the registration number 250 RE, holds a prominent place in the history of British motorcycle trials. It was developed in the early 1960s, when the factory was shelving the older 350 trials machines which were then too heavy by comparison to the advent of the lighter trials machines with smaller unit engines, such as the Triumph Tiger Cub, BSA C15s, the variety of AMC lightweights, and Greeves. The factory-prepared version of the Crusader was designed to meet the specific demands of trials riding, a discipline where control, manoeuvrability, and durability are paramount. This bike was part of Royal Enfield's commitment to competing in high-profile trials events of the era, and recognising the need for a more lightweight and capable motorcycle to compete against the growing trend of smaller, lighter mounts.

It was equipped with a four-speed gearbox, rather than the problematic five-speeder, enabling a more reliable gear change, the lighter single sided hubs, longer travel forks, and general lightening. The shedding of weight, and slimming down generally was key, as always. Today, this machine is a rare and highly collectable motorcycle, admired for its historical significance and its role in shaping the trials scene of its time.

250 RE was campaigned by Peter Fletcher and others in the early 1960s while the factory attempted to establish the new 250 as a competitive trials machine for the period. When Royal Enfield scaled back their competition presence, the works machines were either given or sold to the regular riders. It is thought that 250 RE was acquired by Peter Fletcher, although the only name in the RF.60 log book after the Royal Enfield factory is Brian Anthony Hunt of Redditch. At some point it was acquired by Don Morley who, in turn, sold it to John Barker of Melton Mowbray in 1983. Barker sold it to the present owner later in 1983. The present owner has used 250 RE in 'hundreds' of trials since, and ridden it to 5 wins in National Classic Championships. From commencement of his ownership the owner kept a note book for the Enfield from 1983, logging details of all work done to the bike. The bike has not been used for approximately 10 years, and will, therefore require some degree of re-commissioning and safety checks before further use, hence sold strictly as seen.

Documents include the old buff RF.60 log book, current V5C, an old V5, a copy old V5, the aforementioned note book, a handbook, a quantity of expired MoT certificates, and sundry papers. Key not required.