I bought mine new in January 1972 and loved its handling - or at least its stability in corners. It wasn´t hard to start once I had the knack. On a twisty road it could hold its own against bigger and faster bikes. I raced it a few times but it wasn´t competitive against the predominantly Japanese opposition. As good as my Bulty was I have to say my later Honda CB250 RS was better and far more civilised.