Motorcycles and EMP

The Suzuki TS185 from 1971 to 1977 at least, has a points controlled primary magneto ignition. This should be fairly emp proof, and has the additional advantage that it will kick start and run without a battery. Probably blow out all the lights because the battery helps regulate the charging system, but it will run. The TS is a 2 cycle that has decent power to pull 2 people if necessary. The 185 is about as small as I would go with a 2 stroke to haul 2 people, with a 4 stroke I would want a 250 or bigger. Each have their advantages and disadvantages.

Just some ideas.

 

Harleys used points up to about 1978, and even after that they can be converted easily to use points on through the Evolution era. That would get you up through, what, the late '90s? Not sure about Twin Cams.
My 1975 FLH (shovelhead) had been fitted with an aftermarket breakerless ignition which I replaced with points, although recently I have added a full electronic ignition. I still keep the points for backup. They're kind of a pain.
There is a charging system regulator that you'd need a spare in a box. If motors are affected you'd lose the starter, but a previous owner had added the kick starter. It should be relatively easy to start any bike by push starting.

 

I wasn't really trying to say that a wet cell battery would be affected by an EMP. I was stating that you would not need a battery as more of a side benefit, in that you would not need to worry about having a charged battery to fire the points and the coil for ignition. Just stating that with a primary magneto that a charged battery is one less thing to worry about.

 

Don't worry, be happy!

 

Load carry, Primo for that bike is a set of solid sided bags that also have their own sturdy brackets. The plus here, on the brackets, is that they serve as "crash bars' when the bags are not attached.

 

Works fo me.

Looked at a 750 Honda set up close to this.

 

What I have bought to fully restore is a 1980 Honda CM200 cruiser. I paid a paltry $300 for this. Has points and condenser with just a single carb. Low miles and will make a great little economical bike to get to and from work on.

 

I believe that there is a diesel motorcycle designed for the military that would suit you need best.

 

I am of the opinion that the US Mil have switched to the ZERO.