Sidecar LCR-Yamaha Lucky Strike no.1 FIM Sidecar World Championship 1987

The LCR-Yamaha Lucky Strike #1 of 1987 comes back to the track thanks to BRM

Few competition motorcycles generate as much fascination as the sidecars of the eighties. The LCR-Yamaha number 1 in Lucky Strike livery, piloted by the Dutchmen Egbert Streuer and Bernard Schnieders during the 1987 FIM Sidecar World Championship season, is one of those references that no three-wheeled enthusiast forgets. BRM now recreates it in 1/18 scale with the reference BRM-SDC02, bringing all the emotional and technical weight of that golden era to the slot track.

Features and Highlights

• 1/18 scale, specifically developed by BRM for the sidecar category in slot.
• 2 mm black anodized aluminium chassis: a rigid and lightweight base that faithfully transmits track demands.
• 23,000 RPM motor in anglewinder configuration, mounted at an angle to the rear axle to optimize weight distribution and stability in corners.
• Independent drive on both rear wheels, a technical solution that distinguishes this sidecar from any conventional slot car: both driven wheels do not share an axle, requiring a specific transmission design and providing unique behaviour on the track.
• 3 mm axles and brass bearings replaceable with ball bearings for those who wish to fine-tune performance.
• Machined aluminium wheels, matching the overall quality of the piece.
• Two co-driver figures in different positions, allowing customization of the model's aerodynamic visual presentation.
• Lucky Strike decoration faithfully reproduced to match the original livery from the 1987 season.

Scale and Level of Detail

The 1/18 scale chosen by BRM for its sidecars is not coincidental: it allows for a rigorous representation of the characteristic shapes of the LCR (Louis Christen Racing) chassis without sacrificing viability as a performance slot car. The LCR chassis was, and remains, the reference standard in the design of competition sidecars since the seventies, and BRM has poured the same care into this replica that Louis Christen applied to his original creations. Every detail of the bodywork, the proportions of the sidecar, and the position of the rider are treated with the respect that a machine of this historical calibre deserves.

Track Behaviour

Running a sidecar in slot is a completely different experience from any conventional car. The anglewinder motor configuration, combined with independent drive on the rear wheels, creates a behaviour that requires some adaptation but rewards with surprising cornering stability for the vehicle's dimensions. The standard brass bearings provide a smooth and durable roll; those who wish to extract every tenth can replace them with ball bearings without complication. The 2 mm anodized aluminium chassis acts as a rigid structural element, minimizing flex that in other materials detracts from cornering consistency.

Ideal for…

• Slot collectors looking for unusual pieces, away from the conventional catalogue of touring cars or GTs.
• Fans of competitive motorcycle racing, particularly the FIM Sidecar World Championship of the eighties.
• Club drivers with a desire to experiment with formats different from traditional slot.
• Display cases and reference collections where the LCR-Yamaha Lucky Strike #1 of 1987 occupies a deserved place alongside the great machines of the era.

Aspects to Consider

As this is a collectible piece with active slot mechanics, it is advisable to check the condition of the braids and guide before the first running sessions, following the usual procedure for any newly acquired slot car. The independent drive on the rear wheels makes tyre balance particularly relevant: uneven wear can affect behaviour more noticeably than on a conventional axle. BRM considers the replacement of brass bearings with ball bearings as an accessible upgrade for those who wish to take the model to more demanding sessions.

The 1987 Season: Historical Context

The 1987 FIM Sidecar World Championship was one of the most fiercely contested in the history of the discipline. Egbert Streuer, a two-time world champion (1984 and 1985) alongside Bernard Schnieders, entered the season as the favourite under the colours of Lucky Strike tobacco. However, the emergence of the British duo Steve Webster and Tony Hewitt marked the beginning of a new era: Webster claimed the title that year, inaugurating a dominant streak that would continue into the following season. The LCR-Yamaha #1 of Streuer and Schnieders, combative and technically brilliant until the end, is etched in the memory of fans as a symbol of a generation of riders and machines that brought the category to its peak popularity in Europe.

Frequently Asked Questions

What track systems is this BRM sidecar compatible with?

BRM designs its slot cars for universal track, so it is compatible with Scalextric and Ninco tracks, among others that use that standard. Check the track width specifications of your circuit before running.

What is the difference between an anglewinder motor and a sidewinder?

In sidewinder configuration, the motor is placed parallel to the rear axle (transverse), while in anglewinder, the motor is angled with respect to that axle. The anglewinder allows for more flexible weight distribution, which BRM takes advantage of in this sidecar to optimize cornering stability.

Can I upgrade the brass bearings to ball bearings?

Yes. BRM expressly considers that replacement. Ball bearings reduce friction and improve acceleration response, being one of the first upgrades that demanding enthusiasts usually make.

Are the two included co-driver figures easily interchangeable?

According to the manufacturer's information, the model includes two figures in different positions to customize the visual presentation of the sidecar. For specific fastening system and exchange process, we recommend consulting the instructions included in the packaging.

Is this model suitable for club competition or is it primarily aimed at collection?

The BRM-SDC02 combines both aspects: its active slot mechanics (motor, guide, braids) make it perfectly suitable for track running, while its level of detail and the historical relevance of the livery make it equally valid for display. The choice depends on each enthusiast.

What axles and tyre measurements does it use?

The model incorporates 3 mm axles. For other tyre measurements and compatibility with specific spare parts, we recommend consulting the official technical sheet from BRM or contacting our team directly.

The BRM BRM-SDC02 is a 1/18 scale slot car replica of the iconic LCR-Yamaha Lucky Strike #1 sidecar raced by Egbert Streuer and Bernard Schnieders during the 1987 FIM Sidecar World Championship. Featuring an anodized aluminum chassis, anglewinder motor at 23,000 RPM, independent rear wheel drive and brass bearings upgradeable to ball bearings, this is a standout piece for slot racing collectors and motorsport history enthusiasts alike. Part of BRM's specialist sidecar range, it faithfully recreates one of the most celebrated three-wheeled competition machines of the 1980s.