Description
This motorcycle is Lot 390 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 390
1986 Honda NS400R
Registration no. C94 BOR
Frame no. NC19-2002608
Engine no. NC19E-2003024
Multi-cylinder two-stroke Grand Prix replicas were much in vogue during the mid-1980s, as first Yamaha and then Suzuki sought to exploit their links with the racetrack. Honda too were players in this niche market, but somewhat surprisingly chose to make their GP lookalike a 400 rather than a 500 like those of their rivals. Despite giving away 100cc, the NS400R looked every bit as convincing as Yamaha's RD500LC and Suzuki's RG500 Gamma, and had the advantage of being both lighter and more compact than either. Introduced for 1985, the NS400R boasted a three-cylinder engine just like Freddie Spencer's 1982 World Championship-winning NS500 while being notable as Honda's largest two-stroke roadster and its first with an aluminium frame. It was also one of the best-handling roadsters of its day and an instant classic. In the current ownership since 1999, this UK model has been treated to a 'last-nut-and-bolt' restoration, including three new cylinders and refurbished carburettors, the rebuild being completed circa five years ago. The Honda last ran three years ago but otherwise has been kept in dry storage. After-market indicators and end cans are fitted; the originals are included in the sale together with a pair of Terry Shepherd Tuning performance exhaust pipes (currently not fitted). Accompanying documentation includes an old V5; handwritten purchase receipt (1999); some pre-restoration photographs; expired MoTs; and various bills/ invoices. Key present.
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.
