Honda racing history: Nicky Hayden’s championship bike and Mike Hailwood’s RC173

Significant pieces of Honda racing history are being highlighted, including the 2006 MotoGP title-winning RC211V and the upcoming auction of Mike Hailwood’s 1966 RC173.

The RC211V, a unique V5 engine machine, was ridden by the late Nicky Hayden to secure his MotoGP world championship, ending Valentino Rossi’s dominance. This model represented Honda’s final push for supremacy in the 990cc era before engine regulations shifted.

Separately, the RC173, which Mike Hailwood used to win the 350cc World Championship in 1966, is scheduled for auction this November. The motorcycle, which secured six Grand Prix victories that season, is reportedly the only existing specimen of the RC173. After being displayed at the Honda Collection Hall in Motegi, the bike will be sold in working condition.