9 replies to this topic

[TeeZed]

Hi Gents,

I'm currently restoring a 1987 Honda, RS125R. Sort of an interesting bike as it was the first year for the 125 with aluminum frame, but still using wire wheels. Anyway, I'm looking for photos/information on the Honda factory rider Ezio Gianola who I understand rode this model in '87.

Thanks in advance......

Don

[bobness]

Not wire wheels, but it's a start...!

http://www.highsider...anola_87_02.htm

[SMonty]

I do remember Gianola riding the wheels (wire or otherwise) off that little Honda. His style was very characteristic in that he seemed to have his chin permanently hard down on the tank!

Sorry I don't have a pic for you.

[exclubracer]

Good luck Don, sounds like a nice project!

[RC162]

This is listed as being his 1987 Honda.

[TeeZed]

Hi Guys,

Thanks for the pictures and information. That picture RC162 is most certainly a '87 model. If anyone remembers or can dig up any more info or pics on him or the bike I would most appreciative.

Thanks again....

Don

[zidder]

http://books.google....R...nda&f=false

[TeeZed]

http://books.google....R...nda&f=false

Hi zidder,

Thanks for the reference. I had never seen that before. However, the way that reads there was only one '87, RS125R ridden by Gianola. I know that isn't true as I have one (confirmed by the S/N and other Honda experts) and I have identified 4 or 5 others around the word. I have been told that none were exported out of Japan (I know none were imported to North America) and that year Honda sponsored a "spec" bike series in Japan for these bikes. Has anyone ever heard of such a series in Japan in 1987? The one I have was imported into Canada as a used race bike in the early '90s and went through several hands before it followed me home.

Anyway, I trying to gather as much information about these bikes as possible and appreciate any input.

Don

[tonyed]

Hi zidder,

Thanks for the reference. I had never seen that before. However, the way that reads there was only one '87, RS125R ridden by Gianola. I know that isn't true as I have one (confirmed by the S/N and other Honda experts) and I have identified 4 or 5 others around the word. I have been told that none were exported out of Japan (I know none were imported to North America) and that year Honda sponsored a "spec" bike series in Japan for these bikes. Has anyone ever heard of such a series in Japan in 1987? The one I have was imported into Canada as a used race bike in the early '90s and went through several hands before it followed me home.

Anyway, I trying to gather as much information about these bikes as possible and appreciate any input.

Don

Colin McKellars' book Honda GP Racers has photos on pages 160 and 162 of Gianola in 1987. One an action shot and one a garage shot. Both show Campag wheels. The shot on page 162 shows Hans Spaan 1988 RS125 with wire wheels.

I will copy these and forward them to you.

Regards

Tony

[TeeZed]

Colin McKellars' book Honda GP Racers has photos on pages 160 and 162 of Gianola in 1987. One an action shot and one a garage shot. Both show Campag wheels. The shot on page 162 shows Hans Spaan 1988 RS125 with wire wheels.

I will copy these and forward them to you.

Regards

Tony

Hi Tony,

Thanks for that information. I received your email with the scans.

Don