Bultaco Matador

BULTACO MATADOR

Trail Test:

WE HAVE OFTEN talked about the proper measuring stick for trail machines; it is not easy to simplify the requirements. We have explored many machines especially prepared for the trailing rider, hunter, outdoorsman, and others harboring desires for motorcycles with "special" trailing attributes. Bultaco's Matador is the end-product of a machine put together for the International Six-Days Trial, probably the most gruelling and demanding cross country event held anywhere in the world. It possesses virtues usually found only in scrambles and trials machines in a combination impossible to duplicate in any other motorcycle we have had experience with.

It handles superbly, more like a European-style scrambler than a trail machine, yet it is easy to ride and delightfully flexible and only partially as tempermental as one would expect of a bike so endowed. Torque at low engine rpm is amazing and it will "pull" from almost a stand-still in first or second gear — a virtue of some value if one plans on trailing or riding into the most difficult terrain.

First, second and third gears are fairly close together in ratios, but fourth is quite high for road use. An extended trailing trip into the back country will quickly prove the usefulness of such ratios. Simply, it means that it will plow its way through the hard parts of trailing, but when the smooth roads come along, cruise at relatively high speeds in fourth.

But, it is difficult to justify the price. The Matador sells for quite a bit more than the trail scooters and 50cc to 90cc trail motorcycles; the acceptance of this "handicap" depends upon precisely which type of riding the purchaser will indulge in. Bultaco's Matador offers a flexibility the small machines couldn't hope for, but at the same time it has a few shortcomings. It is large (a full-sized motorcycle), so somewhat unhandy when it comes to carrying it around, and not the easiest bike to lift over insurmountable obstacles such as rocks and logs. We have to point out here that it also requires a bit more skill on the operator's part to even ride it in the absence of such easy-to-live-with luxuries as automatic clutches and lightweight miniatures.

Matador possesses all of the required attributes of off-the-road motorcycles; gear ratios, ground clearance, proper suspension, torque at low engine speeds, traction tires, high-mounted exhaust pipe, fenders placed so as to not obstruct the wheels when they are collecting mud and debris, ample air cleaner for dusty conditions, lighting for trailing at night (not necessary but handy when needed), and easy, light handling, probably the most important asset.

Spanish motorcycles are not famous for detail finishing. -The Matador will not change this image, but in the final analysis these things mean little more than decoration. Bultacos are noted for power and performance, although the 200cc Matador claims only 10 hp @ 3000 rpm, and 16.5 @ 6,500 rpm. This means simply that sufficient power is on tap at almost any throttle opening, the value of which is almost immeasurable. The 21-inch front wheel, though stylish in European scrambles, will challenge some riders, but it can become particularly desirable once grown accustomed to. The larger front wheel will go almost anywhere it is directed and is less likely to "break loose" and slide than the smaller wheels with larger section tires.

Bultaco states the machine was made for the American market; several features belie this claim, but regardless, a more satisfying machine would be difficult to find, providing that price is not the object when a trail machine only was the goal. We found it difficult not to attempt scrambling with it, yet another talent it possesses in an abundant degree.