URAL M11 Military Combination: Motorcycle sidecar outfits, often called "combinations", played a significant role especially in the Second World War. The leading exponents were the German army which made extensive use of BMW and DKW outfits.
They were low-cost, easy to build and used mainly existing, well-proven technology and could carry three armed infantrymen and a machine gun.
With sidecars now rare, few now realise how capable and versatile they can be, especially in difficult terrain - as was shown in the blitzkrieg advances of 1939 and 1940.
Later in the war, Russia used captured BMW vehicles and started its own production facility at Irbit in the Urals. This plant is still making motorcycles and "combinations" for civil and military use.
We recently had the chance to test one of their latest military models: the M 11 750cc Ural Military combination, fitted with left-hand sidecar to meet British regulations. The specification includes 10-litre jerry can, spade, machine gun mounting, khaki paint job and spotlight. In all other respects it's the same as the less aggressive, civilian Dalesman. They share the same features of leading-link forks, spare wheel, chrome luggage rack, reverse gear, a full tool kit, tyre pump and parking brake.
The engine is a 750cc Boxer-type horizontally opposed unit which is clearly BMW derived. The 4-speed and reverse gearbox is operated by a left-hand foot change lever which has a heel rocker pedal. A separate right-hand lever engages reverse gear from neutral.
Electric starting is standard. Rear suspension is swinging arm. Final drive is by shaft. All the wheels, including the sidecar wheel are fully interchangeable.
Build quality is rugged - these machines are made to operate in arduous conditions far from repair facilities. Everything is accessible, so maintenance and repair are straightforward, unlike many sophisticated modern machines. This machine isn't for you if you don't like getting your hands dirty.
This is very much a recreation vehicle for the enthusiast. It's assumed the owner will do the maintenance. In fact, British dealers give a £200 discount if you do your own servicing, and this doesn't invalidate the warranty.
If your only experience is a solo machine, sidecars can be disconcerting at first - or exhilarating depending on your temperament. When you accelerate, the bike tries to overtake the sidecar, to go left. Decelerate and the sidecar tries to overtake the bike. Driving in a straight line becomes an art form. It's a knack that's easily learned.
For leisurely touring a sidecar outfit is hard to beat. You have ample luggage space and your passenger can enjoy sports car type comfort. The sidecar has a spacious boot and there's the assurance of that spare wheel.
Having years of sidecar experience, we were impressed with this outfit's handling. Unlike most other combinations, this bike and sidecar were designed to be "as one".
The 750cc engine has lots of really useful torque. Steering, using leading link forks and with robust damper, is light and precise. We particularly appreciated the mirrors, the best we've experienced in recent years.
Our only serious criticism is that the lack of a sidecar brake, especially as all the wheels are interchangeable. In the days when sidecars were common few had this facility, but for today's conditions we would prefer one. We understand that the factory is being encouraged to provide one.
Although they can cruise at 75mph, these outfits were never intended for motorways. Only experienced riders would take them that fast, most being happy enough to potter along at 55 or 60 mph.
Going off-road, such an outfit will go places that will defeat a 4x4. If you find riding a solo machine fun, this can be even better.
As yet there is no dealer in Ireland. The nearest dealer, Bernard Brookes of Southport, Lancashire, (+44 1704 500 200) is offering Irish Times readers, on production of a copy of this article, a £100 discount off the normal retail price and free delivery to a British port, such as Liverpool, Heysham or Holyhead.