Honda 'RC162' Replica Grand Prix Racing Motorcycle

Genuine examples of Honda's fabulous Grand Prix-winning multi-cylinder racers of the 1960s have always been out of the financial reach of all but the most wealthy collectors and museums. Generally considered far too precious to parade, let alone race, they are seldom seen in action. The result of this situation has been the growth in recent years of a 'cottage industry' of replica-builders, many of whom use modern four-cylinder engines sourced from Japanese sports bikes. This particular machine is a replica of the Honda RC162 Grand Prix racer used by Jim Redman to win the 250ccWorld Championship for the Japanese manufacturer. Appropriately, its engine is that of a Honda CBR250 RR, which was no doubt chosen for its four cylinders and twin-overhead-camshaft architecture, plus the convenience of an electric starter. This engine is mounted in a bespoke replica RC162 chassis built by JW Motorcycles of Llandre, Dyfed (bill on file). On the frame there is a label stating it was built using Reynolds 531 tubing.

Our private vendor purchased the machine from Steve Carthy Motorcycles September 2017 (sale invoice in file ). It had been built by Bill Wright of Wigan, a friend of Steve Carthy. When purchased, the bike came with an exposed battery/solenoid, etc mounted on a separate subframe behind the engine. The vendor commissioned Peter Keyte of Custom Tanks And Designs Motorcycles to make a RC162 central oil tank in aluminium, which is currently fitted (bill on file). This has been fitted to the bike for a number of years, for appearance mainly, as the bike has been on display in the owner's house. The intention was one day to have the battery mounted inside the oil tank so it could be used without removing the oil tank and reinstalling the battery.

Included in the accompanying file are CBR250 maintenance details and electrical wiring diagrams. The starting procedure is as follows:

1. Connect battery or use external power supply
2. Turn on petrol - tap is at underside of tank at rear
3. Turn on ignition key (find key on frame nearside, between fairing and engine, secured by wire to prevent loss
4. Turn toggle switch on twist-grip to run from stop
5. Press start
6. There is a choke but generally not necessary. Can be found on offside by carburettor bank with a electrical tie, pull and hold to operate

We are advised the machine was last started approximately one year ago. There is an original invoice from JW Motorcycles for the RC162 replica frame complete with swinging arm dated August 2009.

Following a period of inactivity, this motorcycle will require recommissioning and/or restoration to a greater or lesser extent before returning to the track and thus is sold strictly as viewed. Prospective purchasers must satisfy themselves with regard to this motorcycle's history, originality, authenticity, mechanical condition, and completeness (or otherwise) prior to bidding.

Offered with key