Ural Deco Classic
URAL DECO CLASSIC
Quick Ride
Saved by the sidecar
UNPLEASANTRIES FIRST: This Russian-built rig is easily a halfcentury out of step—and feels every blessed decade. Brakes are awful. Gearbox action is crunchy. Controls are crude. Suspension is lacking. Acceleration from the 649cc pushrod opposed-Twin likewise.
Couldn’t be any other way, really. In 1939, when that oT purge-master Joe Stalin wanted sidecars for his Red Army, he sent out for the best-which happened to be BMW outfits as supplied to the German Wehrmacht. Given that the Nazis were busy rolling over Poland at the time, selling sidecars to the Commies was a low priority, so five BMW outfits were smuggled out of the Fatherland through neutral Sweden. Once in Russia, the Beemers were pulled apart,
measured and dutifully copied.
What we have some 60 yearsand 3.2 million Uralsl-later is that same 1939 BMW-clone in civilianized form.
Not that there haven’t been some improvements along the way. In fact, the U.S.-spec models are the best Urals ever, thanks to the insistence of Seattle-based importer Ural America (800/832-2845; www.ural.com), which specifies electronic ignition, hardened valves and valve seats, Keihin carbs, and U.S.sourced oil seals and piston rings. Much of the final assembly and all two-tone painting is done stateside. Big news for ’99 was the addition of electricstarting for us soft, decadent Westerners. For 2000, the Ural finally passed California’s stringent emissions tests.
But, as already noted, it’s still more than a little rough and ready.
What the Ural has going for it is that third wheel. Originally meant to tote a trooper, machine gun and jerrycans, the all-steel sidecar is now the happy domain of neighborhood kids and household pets. It’s the ultimate ride-around-the-block vehicle. Unlike spacey modern sidecars, the Ural’s cut-down sides, outside step and forwardfolding windscreen allow for easy entry. Our resident “monkey,” Ned the English cocker spaniel, gave the accommodations a big thumbs-up-or would if he were so-equipped.
There’s also a handy rear trunk, home to the toolkit and air pump, and with more than enough storage space for a day at the beach or a picnic in the park. Besides the four forward speeds, there’s also a reverse, useful for impressing friends, although above 10 mph, backward speed wobbles can be hellacious scary. Our maroon-and-beige Deco Classic model retails for $8995-or less than what Harley-Davidson charges for its sidecar alone.
So, are you a potential Uralist? Well, if you’re looking for modern moto conveyance, it’s strictly buyer beware. But if you’re in the market for the damndest conversation piece on three wheels, then purchase at will.
David Edwards
