NORMAN Hyde has specialised in bits for Bonnies' for more than 30 years and his latest development is a range of touring accessories for post-1999 Bonnevilles.

The Bonneville GT range is designed to re-create the grand tourers of the Sixties as well as increasing comfort and the carrying capacity of the modern twin.

Hyde has developed a rack kit in conjunction with Italian luggage specialists Givi.

The chrome rear rack can be supplied with a 45-litre Givi top-box which will accommodate two full-face helmets.

Black pannier racks are also available complete with matching 21-litre cases and indicator stems.

Givi's well-known Monokey system allows a single key to operate the locks on the case lids as well as those that lock the luggage to the racks - less to carry and less to lose.

Rider and pillion seating requirements are addressed with the stepped dual-saddle that utilises a high-quality moulded foam filling.

To keep the rough weather off the rider and lessen fatigue, a lightly tinted Givi screen measuring 420mm from the headlamp aperture to the top is also offered.

When I rode a T140 we all changed our flat and short UK handlebars for the taller and wider export bars. On reflection I recall being hunched forward at speed just trying to hold on to those chest-high bars.

So the practicality of the low Hyde handlebars that are similar to those on 1960-1980 UK bikes should be appreciated by riders want-ing to rack up stress-free miles.

Traditional Triumph type fork gaiters add to the period look and, most importantly, protect the fork stanchions from damage - also available for the front end is a seven-way adjustable steering damper which is effective, easy to fit and unobtrusive.

Handling and stability can also be enhanced with IKON rear shocks which have progressive-rate springs and four-way click-adjustable damping.

Bonnie owners wanting more range from the fuel tank, or just wanting to change the bike's appearance, will be interested in the five-gallon alloy petrol tank.

Riders looking for non-standard brakes should be interested to see the Hyde front brake conversion that includes a full-floating 320mm (rust resistant) plated steel disc with aluminium alloy centre combined with an AP Lockheed four-piston caliper and Ferodo pads.

Call 01926 497375 or visit www.normanhyde.co.uk for details.