Work completed, and work in progress.
It’s been quite a busy couple of months spent mainly completing the current worklist of Amazon compilations; notably James, Douglas and Sidecars. There have also been a few minor additions to the master database.
I’m reasonably sure that compilations for all the major British manufacturers have now been produced. Typically I prefer to have at least 250 examples per manufacturer compilation with a good spread of ‘years.’
I’m now looking at some other great names, which in a number of cases didn`t survive into post-WW2 production, and some that did, but with an insufficient range of adverts to warrant a full compilation. I’m working on these with a view to publishing where possible.
Of course the ‘bikes’ aren`t the only subject for compilations – clothing, accessories, fuels and lubricants for example have always been part of the ‘classic’ British motor cycling scene.
AI fun and games?
Like it or not I think you’ll agree that AI is with us now and is (in the main) a force for good. I use chat GPT every now and again to improve the readability of articles or notes that I have written – it’s not perfect, but it’s a useful tool to help focus one’s thoughts.
I notice that the ‘free’ image generation function is now available, so thought it might be interesting to see if it was up to speed on the classic British bike scene.. take a look at these and make up your own mind.
The more information you input the better the output, and after each iteration you’re presented with an opportunity to suggest areas for improvement… as far as I understand things you can`t expect photorealistic images, so cartoon like images are the order of the day.
So, here is what I requested in the first instance.
“A green Excelsior Talisman 250cc twin motorcycle outside a Pride & Clarkes dealers showroom in 1954 with its new owner about to take delivery .”
AI Excelsior Talisman image #1
Not bad for a first attempt?
“Good scene, I ventured, except the Excelsior Talisman Motor Cycle is a two stroke and much more lightweight in construction.” – let’s have another go.
AI Excelsior Talisman image #2
Not bad.. we’re sort of getting there, “but the Talisman is a two-stroke twin..” have another go.
AI Excelsior Talisman image #3
Oh dear – nice try, but no cigar.
That’s it for now, thanks for tuning in.