Archival Chronicles

70+ Years of Sri Lankan Racing Heritage

From the World War II tarmac of Katukurunda to the electric Colombo Night Races and the permanent halls of THG Moto Museum.

Original race record of Bandu Gunesekera

#17

Bandu Gunesekera Velocette KSS on Norton Dominator

Authentic Racing Archives

The Legend of Katukurunda & Kurunegala Lake

Motorcycle racing in Ceylon was forged on repurposed wartime runways, tea plantation roads, and scenic lake circuits.

One of the museum's prized archival records documents rider Bandu Gunesekera astride a customized hybrid: a Velocette KSS 350cc OHC engine slotted into a Norton Dominator 500cc Featherbed frame with a padded tank.

"This bike could reach 80 MPH in just 10 seconds and was raced at Katukurunda, Kurunegala, and Kandy in the Unlimited Classes, holding its own against thoroughbred Norton Manx 40 500cc racers."

These authentic documents, programs, and race tickets are on permanent display on the walls of THG Moto Museum.

Chronology of Speed

The Evolution of Two Wheels in Sri Lanka

How seven decades of engineering, bravery, and mechanical passion shaped the collection you see today.

1950s

The British Singles & Twins Era

Post-war Ceylon embraced British engineering. BSA, Norton, Triumph, Velocette, and Matchless dominated roads and airfields. Katukurunda airfield became the epicenter of Ceylon road racing.

1960s

The Age of Ingenious Hybrids

Sri Lankan racers and mechanics customized British engines into legendary frames. The Velocette KSS inside Norton Featherbed frames set blisteringly quick 0-80 mph runs on lakeside circuits.

1970s

The Japanese 2-Stroke Revolution

Yamaha RD, Suzuki GT, and Honda twins transformed the sport with high-revving power bands and lightweight agility, giving rise to Sri Lanka's intense motocross and club racing community.

1980s

Pro-Link Suspensions & Motocross Glory

Honda's CR125R and CR250R Pro-Link bikes revolutionized dirt tracks across Kurunegala, Fox Hill, and Nuwara Eliya. Off-road racing drew tens of thousands of cheering fans.

2011 – 2013

Colombo Night Races (CNP)

Under floodlit metropolitan streets in the heart of Colombo, Sri Lanka's elite riders battled at high speeds. Founder Thusitha Gunasekara raced bike #36, bringing home trophies and memories.

2012 – Present

THG Moto Museum Established

Thusitha Gunasekara opened THG Moto Museum on Negombo Road, Kurunegala, bringing together over 100 historical motorcycles, racing trophies, and rare memorabilia under one roof.

Track Archives

Frozen In Speed

Original action photographs preserved in the museum archive.

Preserving Legacy

See These Historic Machines With Your Own Eyes

THG Moto Museum is open Monday through Saturday in Kurunegala. Group and student bookings welcomed.

Schedule Your Visit