From the Archive

Three magnificently captured moments in time for you to enjoy at your leisure before one gets into the meat on the bones of this issue of Classic Racer.

YEAR: 1961 // LOCATION: MONZA // STUDIOUS CONCENTRATION AND HARD WORK, WATCHED BY TWO LOCAL LADS TAKING IN THE ‘OPEN WORKSHOP’ AIR

In a racing season where Stanley Michael Bailey Hailwood had graced the podium seven times (three of those at thett where he became the first racer to bag three victories in race week – 125cc, 250cc and 500cc races) there was much work to do. A newly-emerged Honda factory was keen on innovation and ideas. The time was such that little thought for any other race team’s needs warranted much consideration. This wasn’t about who had the biggest garage at the track, or even who had a garage – or a handy shed to put things in. This was about the right motorcycles, prepped the right way so that the right rider could make the most of them. Mike Hailwood casts an inquisitive frown towards the Honda’s motor. Nobby Clark, nattily attired in the superb Honda Motor Tokyo overall, judges the mood of the rider with a quick glance whilst sorting out the engine on bike number two. Tense, isn't it?