The fog was clinging to the grass that morning, soft and secretive. I’d already unearthed a Shoei race bag, scuffed leathers, and helmets that still carried the hum of two-stroke history. Then, folded with the careful neglect of time, I found these leathers — and the story deepened.

This is Simon Buckmaster’s MW Racing privateer suit, from an era when lone British riders chased Grand Prix points against factory titans, carving their names in grit rather than gold. It speaks in red, white, and yellow leather, patched with the logos of the brands that believed in the brave:

• Castrol – the scent of every paddock in the 1980s
• Arai Helmets – the shield above his name
• P&O European Ferries Motorsport, carrying privateers across seas to the next fight

The details make it sing for a collector:

• MW Leathers London construction, with perforated white and red panels, yellow piping
• “Simon” stitched on the chest, “Buckmaster” across the back — a privateer’s banner
• Aged knee sliders, scuffed seat, and creased panels that tell the story of real tarmac time
• Velcro, zips, and patina left untouched for authenticity

Buckmaster entered 62 Grand Prix races between 1984 and 1992, with a career defined by bravery, persistence, and a career-best 2nd place at Misano, 1989. Suits like this are the armour of the unseen battles: long weekends, damp paddocks, and moments of glory when the flag dropped.

Rescued from Ken Buckmaster’s house clearance, these leathers were found alongside Simon’s helmets, race bag, and other suits on that same foggy morning, part of the 11-piece treasure I refused to let scatter to the wind.

Sold as a collector’s display item only — not for modern riding use.

💫 Proudly brought to you by Rescued4You – where treasures find new homes!
Secure this authentic slice of privateer history, and explore my shop to see the other rescued Buckmaster helmets and GP memorabilia from that extraordinary discovery.