The first new model from Hesketh Motorcycles in the 21st century will be the Hesketh 24. Taking inspiration from Hesketh’s illustrious Formula 1 roots, the Hesketh 24 uses James Hunt’s F1 Grand Prix winning ‘24’ car as the basis of its styling.
However, underneath the red, white and blue will be a “modern interpretation of a Hesketh machine”, with a massive 1950cc, 56 degree V-twin engine putting out around 120bhp. The Hesketh 24 will feature “quality branded components” such as Ohlins suspension (track and road), Beringer brakes and Brock’s performance BST carbon fibre wheels.
Available from February, the new Hesketh 24 will be the first model to be released under Paul Sleeman’s ownership and serves as a clear indication of the new direction for the brand.
Sleeman said: “The design centres around the big V-twin muscle at the heart of the bike, with overhead air intakes inside the tank above and a 22.7 litre fuel cell mounted below the engine. To stay true to some original Hesketh features, the front light offers a modern half cowl and the top tank follows the distinctive Hesketh shape.
“The Hesketh 24 is a nod to the F1 success of James Hunt and the Hesketh racing team and we tried to incorporate this is in subtle touches, such as the small Scottish and English flags on the tail as seen on the original F1 24 car and the outline of the Zandvoort circuit that offered Hunt the famous 1975 victory.
“The limited-edition Hesketh 24, of which only 24 will be made, is available from February and we will go on to develop and release a two-seat version of this model shortly after.”
Hesketh Motorcycles will also soon be moving from its current home in Kingswood to larger premises in Redhill, Surrey, allowing the team to concentrate on the manufacture of the Hesketh 24 and further models.