Description
Please note: The seller has not attempted to start this RC163 under his ownership. As such, there will be no running video.
Additional photos are available here for your perusal.
One of Honda’s first-ever race efforts came in 1959 at the Isle of Man TT. Already a large and established motorcycle manufacturer within Japan, the Big Red had yet to make a name for itself around the rest of the world. As was the case with many auto- and moto-makers, competition seemed to offer a clear pathway towards gaining larger recognition.
Accordingly, Honda added to its lineup of 50cc and 125cc entrants later that year with the announcement of a 250cc inline-four dubbed the “RC160”. Though not a new design (Benelli and Gilera had put out some supercharged fours during the late 30s), it represented a big step in Honda’s growing Grand Prix promise.
Over the next two seasons, Honda continued to improve on the design with the RC161 and RC162. The former brought an all-new frame, new front suspension, and new brakes (amongst some meaningful engine upgrades like lighter casting and a relocated cam chain) while the latter introduced an open double-loop design and a further five horses — bringing the total output up to 45hp.
The bike you see before you was built as an RC163 replica by John Locksley and then subsequently purchased by Phil Morris. Designed using exact measurements from Sammy Miller’s Honda 250 four of the day, even the tank design and template have been replicated from the ex-Mile Hailwood Honda being held at the National Motor Museum. Tony Milk supplied the fiberglass bodywork, fairing, CR93 seat, dummy oil tank, and brake plates. In place of a 60s powerplant, however, it boasts a MC14 engine from a Honda’s Japan-only CBR250R — a choice that adds modern improvements (i.e., water-cooling and a 19,000rpm redline) while also staying true to the spirit of the original. True to its rider decals, this example has been ridden by Tommy Robb and John McGuinness on several occasions.
This example is VIN: JMLPMR002, engine #: MC14E102676. The seller acquired the bike in 2016 through an online auction.
There is no odometer. True mileage is unknown.
Maintenance:
The seller has not attempted to start this RC163 replica under his ownership. He has not had cause to perform any maintenance.
Modifications:
Mike Hailwood Honda replica tank.
JDM-only Honda CBR250R MC14 engine.
Custom-built, powder-coated frame.
Hagon shocks.
Fiberglass bodywork.
CR93 seat.
CB77 forks.
Inside of the tank:
It is riding on Michelin tires that have aged out.
The sale includes a selection of documents such as promotional flyers, conditional parade registration, and various build notes. Please see the album up top for all that is included.
Cosmetic Blemishes: please see the album up top for all known cosmetic blemishes. Here is a selection:
Currently located in Roanoke, Indiana, this Honda is offered on a Bill of Sale only. Have any RC163 stories or questions about this listing? Let us know in the “Comments” tab!
