The 1989 Rothmans Honda NSR500 was a brutal masterpiece. Producing over 165 hp in an overly rigid twin-spar chassis, it was infamous for vicious power delivery and unforgiving handling. While it introduced the first electronic quick-shifter to GP racing, the bike was a physical monster that punished the slightest mistake with violent high-sides.
Gardner’s defining moment came at the inaugural Australian Grand Prix at Phillip Island. Riding the #2 machine, he fought off Rainey, Schwantz, and Sarron in a legendary four-way dogfight. Despite immense pressure from the home crowd and a bike fighting him every inch of the way, Gardner secured an emotional victory that remains one of the sport's greatest races.
The euphoria was short-lived. Just a week later at Laguna Seca, a catastrophic crash shattered Gardner’s leg, instantly ending his title charge. While teammate Eddie Lawson eventually tamed the NSR to win the championship, Gardner’s 1989 campaign became a story of grit and "what if," cementing his legacy as the toughest rider on the grid.
*image(s) for illustration purposes. Actual product is 1:18 scale diecast model.
