1983 Hesketh V1000 Combination

Lot details
Registration No: A165NBM
Frame No: 098
Engine No: 0202
cc: 992
MOT Expiry Date: None

Lord Alexander Hesketh sought, with the V1000, to produce the finest motorcycle in the world and re-establish the British motorcycle industry. Analogies to Vincent and prestige cars such as Aston Martin and Bentley abounded in the press prior to the models release. Power was provided by a double overhead cam, 90 degree vee-twin engine designed by Weslake, housed in a rigid tubular frame, which was offered with either an enamel finish or a striking nickel plated finish. Components were sourced from the leaders in their fields such as Brembo (brakes) and Marzocchi (suspension). When the press were allowed to try pre-production examples the analogies seemed to be correct, the large capacity twin endowing the machine with effortless performance whilst the handling, braking and quality were all of the highest order, although concerns were voiced about the quality of the gearchange.
Unfortunately, commercial pressures dictated that production started before the machine was fully developed. The general downturn in motorcycle sales combined with the machines high price and the by now "well reported" problems, that were subsequently resolved, led to sales that were not as significant as had initially been hoped for with the result that the firm went bust in May 1982 after approximately a hundred bikes had been built. Following the disposal by auction of the contents of the factory, a new firm was established continuing production for another year on a much reduced scale and introducing both the faired Vampire and the EN10 modifications that resolved the faults of the earlier machines. Following the closure of Helseydon, Mick Broom took over both the production of new machines and the supply of spares to owners of the earlier models. Under his stewardship the V1000 has been continually developed, current models utilising radial tyres, carbon bodywork and engine management systems among other innovations.

The large capacity vee-twin employed by the Hesketh is well suited to use with a sidecar and the machine offered has been so equipped. It is fitted with a "chair" of a quality commensurate with the motorcycle in the form of an original Steib S501. Earles type front forks have also been utilized.

The candy red example is described by the vendor as being in as "new condition" in respect of the cosmetics having been restored during 2006. The machine has recently been fully serviced with a new chain, battery, air filter and oil filter being fitted and the oil changed. It is described as running "perfectly" in all respects although the "outfit" needs setting up. It is offered with a full set of Krauser luggage, the original telescopic front forks together with other spare parts, books and brochures, manual and the original toolkit and a Swansea V5C.

PLEASE NOTE: There is no V5/C document for this vehicle, only a V5 document.