An Essex-based classic car specialist has been commissioned to work on a one-off motorcycle project that aims to break the Motorcycle World Land Speed Record.

Former two times World Superbike Champion James Toseland will attempt to break the current record with the ‘52 Express’ Streamliner motorcycle in September 2014 on Utah’s hallowed Bonneville Salt Flats.

JD Classics’ in-house Paint Shop in Maldon has prepared the ‘52 Express’ in readiness for its forthcoming public debut at the Goodwood Festival of Speed this weekend (11-14 July) using specialist methods to minimise weight and maximise aerodynamic efficiency.

Managing Director Derek Hood said: “Although we are a classic car specialist it has been very exciting to support James in his bid to break the Motorcycle World Land Speed Record. The 52 Express had to be painted while keeping weight to an absolute minimum. All micron builds have been carefully measured and the number of coats kept as low as possible.

“To maximise its aerodynamic efficiency the final coat has been flatted and polished to an incredibly smooth finish. We are sure it will be a must see at this weekend’s Goodwood Festival of Speed and we are confident that James will break the current World Land Speed Record at Bonneville next year.”

The current World Land Speed Record of 376.363mph is held by American Rocky Robinson, but Toseland’s belt-driven ‘52 Express’ aims to reach over 400 mph with its Rolls Royce Gem gas turbine Lynx helicopter engine.

The ‘52 Express’ is being built by a team lead by Project Manager Robin Richardson at the University of Derby and former GP and TT sidecar racer Alex Macfadzean.

As a former holder of the British Land Speed Record and the first man in the UK to reach a speed of over 200 mph, Macfadzean is familiar with the huge task Toseland faces.

“I am hugely excited about this record attempt but I’m under no illusions as to how difficult it will be," explained an ambitious James Toseland. "If successful, this will be a fantastic personal achievement but also a great accolade to bring back to the UK.”

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