2014 HBBB to pay Castrol 6-hour homage

The 2014 Honda Broadford Bike Bonanza has already announced its theme: a celebration of the famed Castrol 6-hour production race, which was held from 1970 to 1987 at Amaroo and Oran Park raceways respectively.

The race was the biggest event for production motorcycles in the world, and was heavily supported by Japanese manufacturers. It also played a major role in the development of modern motorcycle tyres.

The organiser of the HBBB, Motorcycling Australia’s Museum & Heritage Committee, expects to assemble a delectable range of genuine former 6-hour bikes, or faithful replicas, and believes that a line-up of all 18 outright winners is not out of the question.

“Since we first floated this idea prior to Easter, we have been amazed at the number of ex 6-hour bikes out there,” said committee chairman Ron Kivovitch, who was also Clerk of the Course at several of the races.

“And of course, as well as the bikes, many of the stars of the race are still about and I know quite a few of them are keen to join in this celebration. Given that the 6-hour field contained stars spanning almost two decades, stretching from the winner of the 1970 event Len Atlee, to world champions Wayne Gardner and Mick Doohan, there is a wealth of talent associated with the event.”

Part of the display will feature items of memorabilia such as leathers, official merchandise, programs and posters, with videos of previous races screened as part of the display.

The committee would be pleased to hear from ex-competitors and anyone with a 6-hour bike or memorabilia. Contact Ron Kivovitch on 0415 909542 or ronkivo@bigpond.com