Secrets in a Suitcase is from the 2024 Milestones collection which, unlike the rest of the series was shot not on the Isle of Man TT course but across dozens of locations of historical significance to the TT. In this collection, riders, manufacturers and engineers all play a part in a plot culminating on that sacred stretch of 37 and three quarter miles of road: the Isle of Man TT course. These images offer a glimpse into the story behind the story.

The story:

During World War Two East German engineer Walter Kaaden worked on rocket-powered missiles. Indeed, many claim he worked for V-2 scientist Walter von Braun. And during this period Kaaden learnt how to harness the resonance of exhaust gases – and when he joined the MZ motorcycle factory after the war he used this knowledge to transform the power delivery of the two-stroke engine.

Kaaden became manager of the MZ racing team, and his 125cc two-strokes were the first to achieve 200bhp/litre.

One of Kaaden’s star riders was the ambitious Ernst Degner, who was desperate to venture beyond the Iron Curtain and enjoy a Western lifestyle. During one TT he is thought to have met with members of the Suzuki team, who were struggling with under-performing bikes.

A deal was struck – and in 1961 Degner defected from East Germany, taking the secrets of MZ’s all-conquering two stroke with him in a suitcase. The era of the Japanese had arrived

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Rachael Clegg's Limited Edition Art Prints have something of a cult following with collectors across the globe. Limited to edition runs of just 30, each print is signed and numbered by Rachael Clegg and comes with a certificate of authenticity and accompanying story text.

Images are printed on matt Photo Rag 308 gram/m² paper. Each print is carefully hand-rolled in craft paper and shipped in a rigid postal tube. Unframed prints include free worldwide shipping. Framed prints are shipped in a robust crate. Framed prints include free UK shipping.

Prints are available in these sizes:

Medium 50x40cm (approximate paper size)

Large 70x60cm (approximate paper size)

Extra Large 90x80cm (approximate paper size)

Sumo 140cm upwards

Framed options are also available. Images are dry-mounted behind art glass within a bespoke solid wood frame. Frames are available in either a black or white painted finish. These pieces are shipped in a robust crate.