Classics
Words & photos: Rhys Jones
Suspension Development
I
t is almost impossible to overestimate the
importance of motorcycle suspension. It
is an essential part of both handling and
braking and, of course, provides comfort for
the rider. One of the most telling examples
of the importance of suspension, occurred
in the 1960s when the Japanese manufacturing
boom began to take effect. There are numerous
examples of Japanese engines being put into
European-built chassis and suspension units,
such as the British-built Seeley with a Honda
motor. The Bimota factory used Yamaha,
Honda, and Suzuki engines, combining the
flair of Italian chassis and suspension building
Greeves 250cc race bike at Ruapuna
Brough Superior SS100 1925
60 KIWI RIDER
1954 BMW RS 54 Rensport