"Spurred on by the success of fellow HFPack menbers when operating /BM  (I have heard them in the UK) I have decided to equip my old Raleigh with HF capability.

"Chosen equipment is SGC 2020 at 20W,  Hustler whips ( I have a near fullset of resonators) and 3Ah, 14.4V pack of NiMHs.  All this is already available; very satisfying not having to spend any money.

The pictures "show how I have mounted the SG-2020 in a shock absorbing mount on the hanlebars.  The rig seems to be comfortable, snug and protected from road shocks in this arrangement."

"The two 7.2V model racing car NiMH battery packs, connected in series, are in the cross bar/seat tube bag.  The hustler whip mounting arrangements are shown in the photo "Hustler Whip Mounting".  The mounting on its own makes a reasonable earth connection to the bike frame, but to make sure I have added a secure earth bonding - the grey wire in the photo.

The picture "shows me riding the bike.  You will note the swept back angle of the Hustler whip.  This is not due to technical efficiency nor "following the trend" as per the Bike E/recumbent  afficiendos.  The sweep back is purely due to the angle of the most sensible part of the pannier support on which to anchor the SO239 socket.

"Today I gave the bike its first airing to the ether, using the stock mike and the onboard loudspeaker.  This was in the driveway to my house with much clutter from buildings and motor vehicles.  I managed QSOs into Sweden and Lithuania - a promising start.  Later I pedalled the bike (what else?) around the neighbourhood but did not try TX. RX was improved and I could easily read N American stations  (1300Z).

"So, the prognosis looks good. . . All I need to do now is to make a suitable boom mike/headset/PTT switch combo.  I will be trolling the HFPack Archives!"