Honda RC111 Replica 50cc Racing Motorcycle
Frame no. AC15-1002009
Engine no. E1002009

Introduced for the 1962 season, the RC111 was Honda's first offering in the 50cc racing category, newly promoted to World Championship status. The single-cylinder engine boasted twin overhead camshafts and four valves, and produced 9.5bhp at 14,000rpm. It started with six gears, which were increased to eight and then ten as the season progressed, but was always playing catch-up to the more powerful Suzuki and Kreidler two-strokes.

Considered to be the closest copy of the factory bikes ever attempted, this RC111 replica was built by the former Grand Prix race mechanic and classic team owner, Ferry Brouwer, using a modern CB50 Dream as the basis. The stock CB50 frame has been modified to incline the engine by 15 degrees, and the machine's specification also includes works forks and a magnesium headstock; ex-works (RC115) front and rear brakes; (reproduction) Smiths tachometer; and an aluminium fairing made by ex-GP rider, Kees van Dongen. The engine incorporates the following HRC parts: single-port cylinder head, camshafts, piston, ignition, clutch and gearbox, while the clutch casing and exhaust were made by Ferry (see documentation on file). Acquired by Phil Morris from previous owner Steve Kempster, the Honda has been ridden by former Grand Prix star Tommy Robb on many occasions over the last few years.