HONDA MARKS 60 YEARS IN MOTORCYCLE GRAND PRIX RACING AT MOTEGI

Honda will mark 60 years in the premier class of motorcycle grand prix racing at its home event in Motegi, where the manufacturer plans to celebrate its history despite the challenge of competing against Europe’s recent dominance.

The anniversary dates to Honda’s 1966 debut in the 500cc class. On Thursday, the company displayed historic machines at Twin Ring Motegi, including the RC181, its first 500cc race bike. Mike Hailwood rode the model to runner-up finishes in the world championship in both 1966 and 1967, behind Giacomo Agostini, and also won the Isle of Man TT on it. Honda secured the constructors’ title in its first season in the class.

For a commemorative photo session on the circuit, Honda brought out the RC181 ridden by Hailwood’s teammate Jim Redman, rather than Hailwood’s own machine. The display also featured MotoGP bikes associated with Nicky Hayden and Marc Marquez.

The anniversary will carry onto the grid on Sunday. Luca Marini and Somkiat Chantra are set to race Honda RC213Vs in the RC181’s distinctive red-and-silver colours. Marini will retain his number 10, while Chantra’s bike will carry number 15. Chantra is standing in for Joan Mir in the factory team this weekend.

The Japanese Grand Prix is a major occasion for Honda and Yamaha, with both manufacturers keen to perform in front of home fans and company leaders. Honda’s celebrations add a historic dimension to a weekend expected to remain demanding on track.