Jem is in his 50s, hasn't ridden for years, and wants a bike. He doesn't want a fast bike, just something he could poodle around on.

He says he like the Harley Fat Bob (but no other Harley) but that's way out of his price range (£3000-4000-about $4500-6000, remembering bikes are pricier over here).

I doubt a Japanese cruiser would fit.

He actually likes playing with engines and maintenance. He's an engineer and used to race two strokes-he reckoned the best bit about racing was rebuilding the engine after each race!

So, age wouldn't be a problem, so long as spares are easily available, as he'll enjoy fixing it. Reliability, once fixed, should be good.

I've thought of the old Moto Guzzi California T3. Perhaps a modern Triumph retro? Neither would be fast, both would be reliable.

Ideas, please. I know we all like playing with this sort of stuff.

Old airhead?

Good idea. Maybe an old 650, there's still a few around.

Triumph America or Triumph Speedmaster.

Sure. It's always a "friend". (We know it's really for you, but I'll play along.) 

Would your friend be interested in an African Twin? Honda is pretty good for parts, and the seating ergo's might appeal to a 50 year old frame.

£800 VFR?

Buy 2. One for you and one for Jem.

Shhhhhhhhh