Description
This motorcycle is Lot 351 to be auctioned by Bonhams at The Autumn Stafford Sale (The Classic Motorcycle Mechanics Show) on 12 & 13 October, please see the Bonhams website for full details.
Auction Timings:
Lots 1 - 176 are to be sold from 11:00 on Saturday 12th October 2024.
Lots 201 - 429 are to be sold from 11:00 on Sunday 13th October 2024.
Public Viewing:
Available 12th & 13th October 2024 from 09:00 until 17:00, at The Stafford County Showground (The Classic Motorcycle Mechanics Show).
Lot 351
Ex-Mick Broom
1970 Rickman Métisse Weslake 750cc Racing Motorcycle
Registration no. not registered
Frame no. R. 731 & 101B
Engine no. None visible
Formerly raced by Mick Broom
Powered by Weslakes version of the Triumph twin-cylinder engine
The Rickman brothers - Don and Derek - were already established moto-cross stars when they built the first Métisse machine in 1959, and within a decade their company would grow to become one of the biggest and best-known independent motorcycle frame-makers. An enormous success, their MkIII frame was produced in substantial quantities, proving a popular basis for large-capacity roadsters as well as scrambles use. It was followed by the more compact MkIV, which was intended for the unitary construction Triumph T100 and BSA Victor engines, while there were also a frame for two-stroke singles (the 'Petite Métisse') and a road racing chassis, as seen here.
Formerly raced by Mick Broom, perhaps best known for his role as development engineer with the ill-fated Hesketh motorcycle venture, this Rickman Métisse is powered by Weslake's version of the Triumph twin-cylinder engine, complete with the firm's characteristic 8-valve top-end. The current vendor purchased the machine from a UK auction sale in 2017, since when it has been stored within his collection. Reputedly a one-time Cadwell Park lap record holder, the machine is offered without any history and will require recommissioning before returning to the racetrack. It's worth mentioning that frame number '731' is featured in David Gittins' excellent book Derek & Don Rickman, The Metisse Story, where it's described as a 1970 Triumph T100/ T110 Road Racer, owned by customer Owen Greenwood.
All lots are sold 'as is/ where is' and Bidders must satisfy themselves as to the provenance, condition, age, completeness and originality prior to bidding. Visit the Bonhams Motorcycles website for all pertinent auction information.
