HRD VINCENT SIDECAR LEGEND ALLAN BURDUS PASSES AWAY

By: Bill Powell

It is with deep regret that I advise of the sad passing of ASRA member and dear friend, Allan Burdus.  Allan passed away peacefully on Thursday evening 18th August, in hospital, four weeks short of his 93rd birthday.  Allan was a long-standing supportive Member of the ASRA.  A wonderful and respected gentleman, who was always willing to impart his mechanical knowledge and expertise to others. 

Allan was always a regular displayer at ASRA show days of his magnificent period Vincent – HRD sidecar.  Over his many years on the Sydney sidecar scene, he had been a very genuine “behind the scenes” devotee.  Allan had been around as an owner and sponsor and during that time he virtually always had machines that were at the top of their class.

Such legendary sidecar greats as Bluey Barnes, Jack Bissaker, Bill Bingham, Bob Levy and Gary Innis have ridden his bikes and won Australian and State championships on them.  Allan has given most of his life to preparing this equipment.  When the Vincent – HRD began its demise from speedway it appeared that Allan was finished as an owner, tuner and sponsor, but he proved that he was adaptable and joined the Japanese revolution with a velocity equal only by his supremacy with the British machine. 

Allan’s technical expertise is surpassed by none, renowned, and respected Australia wide as the leader in race preparation of speedway Vincents. The name Allan Burdus should be honoured and never forgotten in Australian Speedway.

Deepest Sympathy is extended to son Steve, brother Les and their families and many friends at this sad time.             RIP Allan