One of the most evocative machines in motorcycle racing history has roared back to life as preparations for the opening of the TT Gallery at the Manx Museum gather pace.
The Suzuki RG500, which was ridden to victory by Mike Hailwood, in the 1979 Senior TT, has now been faithfully restored.
Racing engineer Anthony ‘SLick’ Bass was given the task of getting the bike backup and running. During the month-long overhaul. Slick was amazed to find the engine was as Hailwood had Left it, with little sign of corrosion.
“We discovered the engine to be in near to original condition, which was an absolutely extraordinary resuLt,” said Slick. “Remarkably, coolant liquid had corroded a small hole in the water pump housing, with the liquid draining away, meaning that magnesium and…
