1968 Greeves Challenger 24MX6
1968 Greeves Challenger 24MX6
The MX6 is so rare that even the “experts” are unaware that it ever existed. The MX Greeves motocross series began in 1964 with the 24 MX1, which used a new concept devised by Bert Greeves. The motor was derived from the Villiers, but with an aluminum cylinder, while the frame was a modified version of the MDS model with plastic mudguards. The 1965 MX2 differed only in detail.
Oversquare Engine
The 1966 MX3 adopted a new banana-curved fork and redesigned primary transmission. The MX5, which appeared in 1967, introduced an oversquare engine (70×64mm against the MX3’s 66×72mm), a longer frame and the option of a Ceriani telescopic fork.
Bizarre Sequence
The 250 MX5 was joined by the 360cc 36 MX4, and followed in 1968 by the 250 MX4 with conical full-hub brake drums. And that, it seemed, was the end of this famous series, until the appearance of this ultimate 24MX6, of which just five examples were built. The MX4 and MX6 Challengers were the last to use the renowned frame, with its imposing cast-aluminum front member, a feature of the Greeves since 1953. The MX6 also featured the famous Greeves leading-link front fork, even though a telescopic unit was available as an option. The Challenger series was successful and sold extremely well, particularly in the US where the 360cc was popular. Sport highlights included a third place for Dave Bickers in the 1965 World Championship, behind the CZs of Arbekov and Joel Robert. The Challenger also brought Greeves its sixth British national title.
SPECIFICATIONS
Engine: 246cc (70×64mm) air-cooled single-cylinder
Power Rating: 27 hp @ 5,600 rpm
Valves: two-stroke; ports controlled by piston skirt
Fuel System: 32mm carburetor
Transmission: 4-speed, chain final drive
Suspension: leading-links (front); swing arm (rear)
Brakes: 6 inch drum (front & rear)
Wheels: 21 inch (front); 18 inch (rear)
Weight: 225 lb
Rarely seen, the 250 Challenger MX6 was the last of the Greeves line with the traditional cast- aluminum beam frame.
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Nick Nicholson was one of the USA importers for Greeves. I had the pleasure on many occasions to ride with Nick in his later years. My ol man and I were one of the few friends and family that attended his 70th surprise birthday party in 1994. He passed away a few months after his 70th birthday.
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This and many other Atlas Editions Classic Motorcycle cards are available for purchase.
As regards to the sale of your fathers challenger i would be very interested in hearing more as this is very similar to the bike i used to have when i was sixteen.
I used to ride in the AMCA.
If you could let me know if it is for sale and for how much would be very grateful.
Hello!
My Ol’ man wants $5,000 for this motorcycle. http://atlascardsplus.com/1965-greeves-for-sale/