1967 Suzuki TR50

Lot details
Registration No: N/A
Frame No: TR50-10021
Engine No: TR50-10021
cc: 50

Suzuki originally introduced the TR50 in 1963, at a time when the 50cc class was gaining in popularity. Intended to compete against the CR110 from Honda it produced a claimed 8.5bhp at 11,000rpm from its piston ported engine. Unusually the spark was provided by a half speed magneto with the drive being taken from clutch primary drive. A six speed gearbox was built in unit within the sandcast crankcases. Housed in a tubular frame the new model promised much but rapidly displayed signs of fragility and was withdrawn from the market. A revised and improved variant was introduced during 1967. The issues concerning the manufacturing processes employed had been addressed and higher quality materials were employed throughout which resolved the various reliability issues that had beset the original machines. Unfortunately, by this time the popularity of the 50cc class was not as great and Suzuki found it difficult to sell the revised model.
This example, a three owner from new machine, was originally supplied to Mr Peter Harrison of Ambergate in Derbyshire who subsequently sold it to Kenny Durham of Stone, Staffordshire when he emigrated. The current owner purchased it from Mr Durham in 1973. It has in the course of its career won the British Championship and more recently won the 2004 and 2005 pre 1969 championship run by the 50cc Racing Club.
It is described as being in good condition throughout having been 95% restored. The Campagnolo cable operated twin front discs are a period modification from early in its career.