1979 Yamaha TZ750F

Estimated Price: £25,000 - £30,000

Produced by Yamaha from 1973 until 1979 when the 750cc class was dropped by the FIM from the World Championship

Introduced initially as a 700cc but then expanded to 750cc for the duration of its production

120bhp and only 152kg gave an amazing power-to-weight ratio

Developed on an annual basis from the 'A' until the final edition 'F' and dominated the class

This example is presented as a replica of the Joey Dunlop Rea Racing 1980 Classic TT race-winning bike

Built using the repaired frame from the original bike

Originally purchased new by Joey's sponsor John Rea in 1979 whilst Joey was visiting Yamaha dealer Franz Kroon in Denmark

Used during the 1979 and 1980 seasons with the highlight being the famous Isle of Man Classic TT win in 1980 by Joey whilst famously holding onto the fuel tank with his knees following the tank strap breaking

Following Joey signing to Honda in 1981, the Yamaha was raced by Alan Irwin who crashed the bike at Knockhill damaging the frame

The original frame was later rebuilt and fitted with a period-correct TZ750 engine

The bike has remained in private collections since then and has been displayed at various events over the years

Will need recommissioning before use

Complete with a comprehensive history file detailing its history along with photos, receipts and copy manuals

Original seat included as pictured

Great piece of Joey Dunlop history