Description
This motorcycle is Lot 53 to be auctioned by Bonhams at the Timed-Online January Sale, please see the Bonhams website for full details. The timed online auction runs between January 17th through January 27th, with lots closing from midday January 27th 2025.
Public Viewing:
Available 22nd January 2025 from 09:00 until 17:00, by appointment only at Bonhams Milton Keynes.
Lot 53
c. 1978 Suzuki TS250 'Vic Camp Clubman Racer' Project
Registration no. unregistered
Frame no. TS2504-20510
Engine no. TSthe details below
Suzuki's popular TS250 trail bike seems an unlikely basis for an affordable clubman's racer, yet that is what Vic Camp the former UK Ducati importer achieved in the 1970s. UK importers Heron Suzuki GB marketed Vic's conversion as the 'Suzuki Grand Prix' and 'Vic Camp Suzuki TS250 Clubman Racer': "It's closely based on the standard Suzuki TS250 Trailbike deliberately with the minimum of alteration, so that its spares remain inexpensive and easy to get, unlike most other racing motorcycles.
"Vic Camp Suzuki TS250 offers two positive advantages. It is a fraction of the price of any other new 250 racer, and clearly presents a much better bet for the Club rider than a well-used, worn out 250 of another make. One has lapped the Brands Hatch short circuit in the hands of an ordinary rider in just 57 seconds, so you can bet you'll see several around this season.
"The Vic Camp Suzuki TS250 is simple, a modified TS250, one of the famous Suzuki Trailbikes. That they're rugged and perform well is demonstrated by Vic's choice, and in standard form they offer a combination of style, economy and reliability that's hard to beat." It is estimated that 48 Vic Camp Suzukis were made.
Heron Suzuki's April 1977 advertising in Motor Cycle News showed the Vic Camp Clubman Racer complete with full fairing, large tank, racing seat, wire-spoked wheels, tubular swinging arm, underslung exhaust, and a Suzuki TLS front brake. This contrasts with the machine offered here, which features alloy wheels, a disc front brake, box-section swinging arm, an upswept exhaust, and different tank and seat, pointing to the conclusion that it is a later model.
The Suzuki is offered for restoration, its mechanical condition and completeness being unknown (the engine turns over). There are no documents with this Lot, which is sold strictly as viewed. Key not required (ignition barrel removed).
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.
