Martyn Ogborne, one of Sheene's former mechanics, rebuilt the Suzuki XR14 with which the Briton became World Champion in 1976. He was helped in this task by Nigel Everett, GP technician at the time, and at Suzuki UK since 1982.
This Suzuki is still owned by the Sheene family and was sent from Australia to the UK for the ceremonies to mark the 40th anniversary of Barry's title. Suzuki and the Sheene family then decided to restore it, with the invaluable help of the Suzuki Vintage Parts Program which provides parts for old Suzukis.
In 1976, Sheene won the French, Austrian, Nations (Mugello) and Swedish Grands Prix with this machine, finishing second in Belgium. He was crowned again in 1977.
The historical importance of this motorcycle is undeniable, because it is the second Japanese crowned in 500, after the title obtained by Giacomo Agostini on Yamaha in 1975. The Japanese would then win all the 500 and MotoGP Championships until today today, with the notable exception of Casey Stoner and Ducati in 2007.
Video © Suzuki UK
