Hesketh 24 motorcycle unveiled

British motorcycle brand, Hesketh has made a comeback to the world of two-wheels after a hiatus of three decades as it unveiled the 24. The bike has been developed and designed by Paul Sleeman, Hesketh Motorcycles owner and chief engineer. The bodywork of the Hesketh 24 has been inspired from the Hesketh 308 Formula 1 on which James Hunt registered his first ever Formula 1 victory at the 1975 Dutch Grand Prix. The Hesketh 24 has been named after the number on James Hunt’s F1 car and also features the same iconic livery.

Powering the Hesketh 24 is a 1,950cc, air-cooled, V-twin motor pumping out 127PS at 6,000rpm and an eye-popping torque rating of 196Nm at 3,000rpm. Hesketh engineers were planning to use a belt drive system but given the enormous amount of torque the engine generated they opted for chain drive system. The incredible torque figure can be credited to British tuners; Harris Performance Engines who worked their magic on the standard S&S supplied motor. Power is transferred to the rear-wheel via a six-speed gearbox sourced from Baker.

The Hesketh 24 features top-spec cycle parts like Beringer brakes, Ohlins suspension system and BST sourced Blackstone carbon fibre wheels. Other details on the bike include hand-stitched nappa leather seat, 2-into-1 stainless steel and carbon fibre under seat exhaust system. Eventhough the bike looks like a retro cafe racer, it has modern equipment underneath like a keyless ignition system similar to the one found on the Ducati Diavel.

The Hesketh logo adorning the fuel tank has been designed by ex-BSB champion Tommy Hill, who will ride the motorcycle at the 2014 Goodwood Festival of Speed where the 24 would make its public debut. The Hesketh 24 will be restricted to only 24 units with every motorcycle featuring a unique, numbered 18 carat gold plague on the fuel tank. The hand built and exclusive motorcycle comes at a price as the Hesketh 24 would retail for Rs 35.7 lakh (excluding taxes and duties).