We hadn’t a garage when I was a lad
Our motorbikes stood in the yard
Repairs were done down the back alley
And for grease often used plain white lard
None of my mates carried spanners
Just screwdrivers hammers and pliers
To round off the nuts and the bolt heads
With spoons used to levers off tyres
We never got trained in mechanics
All picking up tips as we went
Checking on oil, fuel and batteries
Or hammering frames straight that got bent
Those BSA’s, Triumphs and Enfield’s
We all polished up till they shone
Are sadly a long distant memory
Admired but alas now all gone
© 2008 David Threadgold
Rambling Riddles & Rhymes
You forgot to mention the oil leaks that left a black spot in the yard it permeated the concrete when mixed with the greasy white lard
People did the best they could to keep machines running. When you look back on history it's quite amazing. But folks didn't have a lot of money to hire a mechanic back then. Nowdays it's so high-tech no one can do the work themselves! Great poem, David, I enjoyed it. Warm Wishes, Marilyn
Yes indeed, my great Uncle had an Enfield his pride and joy. I have a wonderful picture of him in all his kit. Goggles, black leather coat and leather head gear that fitted close to his head and came donw over his ears with a chin strap, no crash helmets in those days, and his leather boots, all polished to a shine. Great looking back over history. Loved this one too. Love and hugs Ernestine XXX
This poem has not been translated into any other language yet.
I would like to translate this poem
This is so full of nostoglia, but also filled with much wisdom, as back in the day, what resources did you/we have, but learning from Dad, or grandpa, or each other. We didnt have Auto Zones, even back then Sears never carried auto supplies in all stores.... A very good write as it explains the truth, and what you are conveying, is you had struggles, back allies, Lard ect, but in essence the good old horse sence taught you a wisdom of lifetime..... bonnie