Lot details
Registration No: Eu-Reg
Frame No: VE15811
Engine No: VE75074
cc: 844
MOT Expiry Date: None

The Mk 1 Le Mans had been introduced to the world at the November 1975 Milan Show. Derived from a prototype first seen in 1971 the new sportster featured an 844cc version of the big block vee-twin equipped with twin Dell'Orto 36mm carburettors. As a result the new machine delivered a healthy 71bhp at 7300rpm with a claimed top speed of 205 km/h. In common with the rest of the range a five-speed gearbox and shaft drive were used and the linked triple disc braking system first seen on the T3 sports/tourer was employed. Offered in metallic ice blue or Italian racing red with a matt black exhaust and nose fairing it was a striking machine which quickly established itself as one of the most desirable sports bikes of the period. 'Which Bike' concluded their road test of a Mk I Le Mans with "It looks like 130 mph standing still and it's undoubtedly the sort of bike many would part with hard earned cash for".

This example of the Mk I Le Mans was first registered on the 18th May 1978 with the registration number SFN 437S and resided in the Uckfield area before moving to Sutton in Surrey on the 28th February 1993. The engine, which is described as being in excellent condition has had the timing chain replaced by a set of gears, an expensive modification that offers benefits both in terms of performance thanks to more accurate timing and durability, which is further enhanced by the fitment of an electronic ignition system. The vendor informs us that the universal joint on the drive shaft was renewed in 1996 and that a set of Koni shock absorbers and replacement air filters have been fitted. A stainless steel exhaust system has also been used. The motorcycle was purchased by an enthusiastic Irish collector on the 10th February 2001 from Robertsbridge Motorcycles and has remained in his ownership since. The last five owner's names and addresses are recorded and the machine is currently taxed and registered in Ireland. The condition of the transmission is described as being in perfect with the cycle parts and electrics being in very good, working order. It is believed to have recorded approximately 45,000 miles and the arctic blue paintwork is described as being in good condition on the fuel tank and fair on the mudguards.