Lot details

The continued success of the MK VIII KTT in the fifties confirmed the excellent quality of the engine and gearbox, however, developments in chassis technology began to leave it at a disadvantage in the face of competition from machines such as the the "Featherbed" framed Manx Nortons and AJS 7R's. For some riders this resulted in a change of machinery, however, there were those who were loath to turn their backs on the KTT choosing to develop the chassis to keep the machine abreast of developments.
One such example was built at the instigation of Geoff Duke for use by Jackie Wood. Geoff Duke approached Reynolds Tubing with a commission for a new lightweight chassis built of 531 tubing and equipped with a set of leading link forks. He would carry out a similar exercise in partnership with Ken Sprayson at Reynolds when he commissioned a chassis for an NSU Rennmax engine. The new frame housed a KTT MK VIII engine with drive being taken to the rear wheel via a five speed gearbox. It is believed that one complete machine and a spare chassis were built during 1956.

The machine offered appears to have been owned by Rod Coleman and is accompanied by a letter from Geoff Duke to Rod Coleman. It is offered today having formed part of an extensive private collection and is described as being in excellent condition and running perfectly. Undoubtedly one of the most beautiful racing motorcycles ever built it is guaranteed to attract attention at any event it attends.