Description
H&H Classic Auction @ National Motorcycle Museum | Solihull, West Midlands
3rd July, 2024 13:00
1950 Sunbeam S7 Deluxe
Nicely restored
Estimate
£6, 500 - £7, 500
Registration No: UMF 869
Frame No: 573091
MOT: Exempt
A very well presented Sunbeam S7
Engine work at a cost of over £1, 000
All receipts on file
Current V5C on file
The Sunbeam concern had been acquired by BSA during 1943 and a new machine bearing the Sunbeam name was described to the press in early 1946. It was intended as the "group flagship" and consequently, Erling Poppe designed a machine that incorporated many innovative features. The short-stroke, overhead cam, in line twin cylinder engine was mated to a shaft final drive via a four-speed gearbox with an under slung "worm" gear transmitting the drive to the rear wheel. The all alloy engine and gearbox were mounted in a duplex frame equipped with plunger rear suspension, telescopic forks, 16 inch balloon tyres and sprung saddle. However, harsh running, a peaky power delivery and rapid wear of the worm gear were identified during pre-production testing which resulted in the models release being delayed until 1947 whilst solutions were sought. The BSA design staff opted to detune the engine which rectified the worm gear wear and to rubber mount the engine and gearbox which addressed the harshness issue. The S7 was joined in 1949 by a more sporting variant typed the S8.
On offer is the more desirable of the Sunbeam S range of the time. This S8 was purchased by the current owner from a well known dealer, once it got it home he wanted to do some general tidying up of the machine. In doing so it ended up having a full engine rebuild at great cost with many other parts refurbished or replaced. This Sunbeam S8 is all up and running and would be a joy for its new owner. It is offered complete with a current V5C and sundry receipts for parts.
