LOT 594

1977 Beamish Suzuki RL-250 Mk2 Trials Motorcycle Combination Registration no. FWL 40S Frame no. none visible Engine no. 325-100839 (see text)

Estimate: £5,000 - £6,000

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Lot 594

1977 Beamish Suzuki RL-250 Mk2 Trials Motorcycle Combination
Registration no. FWL 40S Frame no. none visible Engine no. 325-100839 (see text)

The Spring Sale - The International Classic MotorCycle Show|23 April 2022, 10:00 BST|Stafford, Staffordshire County Showground

1977 Beamish Suzuki RL-250 Mk2 Trials Motorcycle Combination
Registration no. FWL 40S
Frame no. none visible
Engine no. 325-100839 (see text)

Ex-BSA works rider, Graham Beamish began by modifying a batch of Suzuki RL-250 trials models at the beginning of 1974, but what was really needed was a completely new frame. Production was entrusted to Mick Whitlock, who designed one made of lightweight Reynolds 531 tubing, bronze-welded and chromed: the 'Whitehawk'. A staggering 1,200 of this first Beamish Suzuki model were sold. A revised Mk2 version, which featured a lighter/stronger frame and a higher proportion of British-made components, was introduced for 1976.

This ex-works Beamish Susuki RL-250 is one of only 67 trials sidecar units made by the factory in 10 years. 'RWL 40S' was despatched new to Farnham Motorcycles for their works-supported rider, A Clarke. Later, Windsor Comp Shop ran this outfit for Colin Hare and it was also used by Roger Martin and Colin Bennett. The current vendor bought the machine from Windsor Comp Shop in 1980 and went on to win the A-CU's Southern Centre Star Group Champion Cup and a further 47 cups and awards.

The RL250 has been restored to the original colours and all mechanical parts have been renewed including chains and tyres (photographs on file). Not the original, the engine started life as a 325cc unit but has been sleeved down to 250cc. The rebuild was finished circa 2016 and the machine last ran in January 2022. The vendor is now unable to ride, hence the decision to sell. The substantial accompanying file contains numerous restoration invoices; assorted correspondence; marque-related literature; and an old-style V5.
Offered without key

Footnotes

All lots are sold 'as is/where is' and Bidders must satisfy themselves as to the provenance, condition, age, completeness and originality prior to bidding

Saleroom notices

The engine number prefix has been overstamped.

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