24 September, 2014
How many sports stars of the 1970s were more instantly recognisable than all-action motorbike hero Barry Sheene?
Many of us remember the double-winning world 500cc champion surviving hair-raising track accidents, as well as appearing as a regular in several newspaper gossip columns.
Now classic bike fans have the chance to relive the late motorcycling icon's glory with an exclusive auction of Sheene-related memorabilia in Staffordshire next month.
A true legend, he was active between 1968-1984, and rode some of the most classic models ever to appear in the sport.
What can Sheene fans pick up?
Motorcycling devotees can bid for Sheene's old trophies, awards and items of racing clothing. These include:
- race-worn Dainese leathers from both historic and classic race meetings
- an Arai helmet donned by Sheene
- European and British event awards and trophies, such as ones from international and grand prix events in his 1970s pomp
- other motorsport and motorbike memorabilia and race wear
Sheene's potted lifestyle
The classic biker was born in London in 1950 and five years later started racing motorbikes.
His fearless style won him many broken bones, as well as fans, all around the world.
Can you believe Sheene was back racing just seven weeks after surviving a horrific multi-bone-breaking 175mph crash at Daytona in 1975?
Even the Queen shared the British public's concern for the star. When awarding him an MBE in 1978 she reportedly advised him to be careful.
He was equally carefree in his social life, where a glamorous lifestyle saw him rub shoulders with famous pop stars, sportspeople and models.
He won the World 500cc Championship in 1976 and 1977 and took his final place on the winner's podium at the 1981 Swedish Grand Prix.
Where's the auction being staged?
The Barry Sheene Collection is being held at the prestigious Bonhams Autumn Stafford Sale, at Staffordshire County Showground, Weston Road, Stafford on Sunday, October 19.
The full event is a two-day extravaganza (October 18-19, 9am-5pm) and tickets, priced £10-£20 for adults, £3-£6 for children and £9-£18 for OAPs.
Bonhams motorbike expert Ben Walker calls Sheene a motor racing "icon". He believes Sheene fans who saw him race in the flesh will have "great pride" if they own one of the several pieces of motorcycling history going under the hammer.
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