Wall of Death Revisited

[Mike Costigan]

The radiator cowl on Frank's car certainly looks to be from a Swallow.

[Bob Culver]

Talula appears to have possibly solid rear suspension. As with cars in the wet would expect better grip with pliant suspension, although none on the bike.
If they could have arranged a litle man lure like a whippet track the lion would likely have performed without the vehicle. 
May heve been difficult for the staff to end cleanly.