The Suzuki XR23 race bike, ridden by Barry Sheene to victory in the 1978 MCN Superbike Championship, sold for £106,200 at Charterhouse’s classic motorcycle auction, held at the Haynes Motor Museum on March 12.
George Beale, of Charterhouse, said: “The successful buyer was not expecting to attend the auction as a big trip to New Zealand had been planned, but this all changed with America and Iran, so he came to us instead.”
Barry Sheene’s 1978 MCN Superbike Championship wining bike sold by Charterhouse for £106,200. (Image: Charterhouse)
The XR23 remained with Suzuki until 1986, before being sold to the Charterhouse vendor in Ireland who has now parted with the bike as he reduces his collection due to age.
The new owner of this historic race bike plans to parade the Suzuki at Goodwood this year which is celebrating the 50th anniversary of when Barry Sheene won his first world championship.
Charterhouse is now inviting entries for its next specialist classic motorcycle auction, also to be held at the Haynes Motor Museum on June 18.
More than 50 bikes have already been consigned.
Mr Beale and the Charterhouse team, based at The Long Street Salerooms in Sherborne, offer motorcycle valuations and can be contacted on 01935 812277 or by email at bikes@charterhouse-auction.com.