Honda RC166

Here is a series of fantastic photographs of a truly beautiful machine. The Honda RC166.

The statistics tell you everything you need to know about how great this bike was. In the hands of Mike Hailwood this bike had a perfect record as the winner of 10 out of 10 races in the 1966 World Championship Series. The RC166 ensured Honda captured the Manufacturers and Riders Championships in the 250cc class for two consecutive years.

Hailwood also piloted the incredible 250cc bike to victory in the Lightweight Class at the Isle of Man TT in 1966 to claim one of his 14  titles.

Just imagine what Honda’s rivals would have made of the following specification back in 1966.  The engine was an air-cooled, 4-stroke,  inline 6-cylinder, DOHC 4-valve, 6-carburetor, 60 horsepower monster spinning to 18,000rpm. Drive was through a 7-speed transmission that hurtled this lightweight 112kg bike to a top speed of over 240km/h.

Magic stuff.

Images: Honda.com