1957 James Captain 197cc 4 speed

Highlights

Restored by the vendor's father
Original specification
British built classic

THE APPEAL

Formed in 1897, The James Cycle Company was a British-owned company based in Birmingham, famous for the Model A bicycle fitted with a Minerva engine under the frame. As motorcycles developed, the company concentrated on two-stroke lightweight motorcycles in the 1930s and continued after WW2. Some of the models produced were the Comet, Commodore, Colonel and the Captain, which we have here today.

This 1957 example was restored over 15 years ago and has since remained as a focal point inside the vendor's home. With a small amount of recommissioning, the James Captain K7 will soon be back up and running, ready to take to the roads once again after its 15-year rest.

THE HISTORY AND PAPERWORK

V5 is present
Declared manufactured in 1957
V5 shows registration 23rd June 1998
One previous keeper showing on the V5
Original instruction booklet
Villiers engine manual
Spare parts catalogue

THE CONDITION

The Captain K7 was restored approximately 15 years ago by the vendor's father
Finished in what’s thought to be the original James Maroon colour scheme
It presents well; there are some areas where it looks to have been painted over existing paint, and some light sanding marks are present
There doesn’t appear to be any corrosion on the frame
The petrol tank and mudguards are free from any dings or dents
The chrome work is in nice condition with just a small amount of tarnishing and pitting in places
The mileage is showing 20,202 with a small amount of tarnishing to the bezel of the odometer
Headlight is in good condition with no cracks in the lens
Chrome handlebars are in good order, along with the brake and clutch leavers
The rear light is also in good order, with no splits
Seat is finished in grey vinyl and has no damage

THE MECHANICS

The Captain K7 was restored over 15 years ago and has been on display since then. Some recommissioning work would need to be carried out before using the James Captain K7
Villiers 197cc Mk.8E engine
Fitted with a four-speed gearbox (fourth was an optional extra)
Telescopic forks as standard
Swinging-arm rear suspension
Full-width hubs
Chrome wheels look to be in excellent condition
Front tyre is Dunlop, and the rear is Golden Roy; both have a good amount of tread remaining but have been standing for several years
The chrome exhaust looks in excellent condition and has a bright tarnish free finish
The vendor reports the bike was running fine before being left on display
Service and inspection of the bike would be recommended before it was ridden, purely because it has been standing

SUMMARY

This is an excellent opportunity for any classic British motorcycle fan to own a fantastic and increasingly rare bike.

Perfect for the handy mechanic who is looking for an easy recommissioning job where it can be serviced and then ready to enjoy. Or just as easy, if you’re not so handy, having your local motorcycle specialist give it the once over and get you on the road and shouldn't cost a tremendous amount.

Notice to bidders

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