worntorn
VIP MEMBER
- Joined
- Dec 22, 2006
- Messages
- 7,917
Guiness book of World Records lists the 650ss as the World's fastest production motorcycle in 1963.If Mathersons record held from 64 to 80 then clearly he was an exceptional rider and his lap record was more due to his talent than the bike. As even the most ardent 650SS enthusiast must concede that many bikes were produced in the intervening years that were more capable than a 650SS.
The twins raced at Daytona in 51 believe. So there was ample time to prove their worth.
It also happened to have arguably the world's best handling frame at the time.
The later 60s thru 70s brought some more powerful engines in a lot of very ill handling chassis.
Matheson's 650ss was a strong engine in a great chassis ridden by an excellent rider, I suspect that is why his record held so long.
Glen