Highlights

Freshly rebuilt 197cc Villiers 2-stroke engine
Entirely original and delightfully patinated paintwork
Quite a rare machine with an interesting company backstory

The Appeal

You’d be forgiven for never having heard of Ambassador Motorcycles as few bikes were ever produced, but the story behind the company is a fascinating one.

It was founded by Kaye Ernest Donsky – better known as Kaye Don – who enjoyed great success at Brooklands, Grand Prix and powerboat racing during the ‘20s and ‘30s.

Here we have the great man’s attempt at building motorbikes and, looking at the way this Ambassador was made, it’s clear that Don could turn his mind to anything.

It is estimated that only 13 examples of the Ambassador Supreme survive today, although the good news is they are powered by the same 197cc Villiers found in numerous small capacity bikes of the time.

If you fancy a classic commuter bike but want something less ubiquitous than a BSA or Francis-Barnet, then this is not an opportunity to be missed.

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The History and Paperwork

V5C present
Maintenance manual
Original logbook
Certificate of authenticity from the British Two Stroke Club
The engine has been restored recently and run very little since
Desirable short registration number

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The Condition

Beautiful patination
The vendor informs us that the paintwork is entirely original
There is some surface rust in many places but little that concerns us
The only significant corrosion visible is on the battery strap which has rusted through
Complete with patinated sprung single seat and pillion cushion which has some splits
The chrome / nickel finish on the handlebars has mostly worn away
Complete with leg guards - which are often lost or damaged on bikes of this vintage
The tank has a great worn look to it, appears free from dents and is complete with knee grips
Charming hand painted registration numbers
The vendor informs us that the tyres have lots of tread
The lug for the centre stand is apparently missing but could be braised back on
Now fitted with a side stand as well

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The Mechanics

197cc Villiers two-stroke engine
Very common engine making it easy to attain parts and expertise
Rebored, new piston, bearings and seals replaced
The coil, battery and points have also been replaced
It has been run following the full rebuild and is reportedly quite tight
The vendor has not ridden the bike

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Summary

This is a fabulously original and mechanically healthy specimen of the unusual Ambassador Supreme.

We think this offers the perfect compromise, as a rare bike with a common engine it will impress wherever it goes without the worry of unobtainable parts.

Motorcycles this characterful do not come up for sale that often and the fact that this is such a rare machine is a further reason that you should consider bidding.

Notice to bidders

This item is sold on an ‘As is Where is’ basis. The condition of this item is the opinion of the seller and may differ from your own opinion. Photos and listing descriptions are for guidance purposes only*.** Car & Classic do not warrant listing accuracy. Full inspection is recommended. Viewings are at the seller’s discretion. Buyer is responsible for delivery and collection of any item purchased.*

A non-refundable buyer’s deposit is payable on this item, refer to FAQs and T&Cs for the applicable percentage.

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