Fit Bones

If we take a classic bike we can compare it with our bodies – if we look after it, service it, MOT it, insure it, and polish it, our bike looks great and runs as well as it should for an emerging classic. If we abuse it then it breaks down, fails, bits fall off and it might be scrapped early.  We don't want that...

The Heart of the matter - the oil pump & lubrication system

The human cardiovascular system (CV) and the combustion engine share similarities in their fundamental functions, despite being vastly different in nature. In the human body, the heart acts as a central pump, propelling blood through a network of vessels to deliver oxygen and nutrients to various organs and tissues. Similarly, in a combustion engine, the oil pump plays a critical role in circulating oil throughout the engine and gearbox to lubricate moving parts and reduce friction.

The heart's rhythmic contractions mirror the engine's four-stroke cycle: intake, compression, power, and exhaust. Suck, bang, squeeze, blow (kind of!).

In the human body, our arteries and veins form a complex network analogous to the intricate system of oil channels in an engine. Arteries carry oxygenated blood away from the heart, much like how oil channels distribute lubricant to critical engine components. Veins on the other hand, return deoxygenated blood to the heart, resembling the pathways that guide used oil back to the pump in an engine. Both systems rely on a well-coordinated circulation process to maintain optimal health.

In our bike we try to run the engine frequently and change the oil and filter to make sure no sludge develops, and that all the internal surfaces are kept well lubricated and can move freely.

Our heart and circulation system requires the same approach. We don't want the biological version of 'sludge' developing in our arteries and veins. Neither the bike nor our bodies do well if left stationary for long periods. Neither do well if left for ages then thrashed without warming up properly too.

Refresh that circulation

So, in planning to look after this emerging classic, (you!) the first thing to do is find a baseline. If you’ve bought a second-hand bike you might want to think about changing the oil and its filter, so you know you're starting fresh and at a certain mileage, as well as when you next need to check or change that oil.

You should start by finding out your resting blood pressure and pulse. This can be your baseline. You can get your doctor to check it for you, but home-use electronic devices work just as accurately.

Blood pressure readings are measured in millimeters of mercury (mmHg) such as 120/80 mmHg which is often given as an average. The first number (the systolic one) refers to pressure in the artery as the heart beats, and the second number (the diastolic one) refers to the blood pressure as it rests between beats. Most people over the age of 50 will have a different number to the one above, (usually a slightly higher systolic pressure, and a slightly lower diastolic one) as it varies a lot with age and health. It's best to have it checked professionally first, then discuss with your doctor what an acceptable number is for you to aim for. You can then measure yourself with an electronic device to monitor change.

You then need to plan (if not already doing so) regular outings for your body, whether indoors or outdoors. First make sure you start gradually, warming up before getting too energetic. Remember, frequent but short periods are often better than infrequent longer sessions. After 3 - 6 months you can check your baseline to see how it compares. If the numbers needed decreasing, and they are, then all is well. Once they have reached the desired number and stabilised, give yourself a big pat on the back! But don’t stop there.

Join a gym, exercise class, bike group, or anything else that helps get you motivated and active.

Just as you wouldn't want to put old oil or cheap rubbish oil in your lovely bike, you should avoid things going into the best classic of all - YOU. Avoid too many fatty and processed foods, and don’t overfill the tank. Unlike the motorcycle, this older classic can't just be gotten rid of...