Description
This motorcycle is Lot 205 to be auctioned by Bonhams at The Autumn Stafford Sale (The Classic Motorcycle Mechanics Show) on 12 & 13 October, please see the Bonhams website for full details.
Auction Timings:
Lots 1 - 176 are to be sold from 11:00 on Saturday 12th October 2024.
Lots 201 - 429 are to be sold from 11:00 on Sunday 13th October 2024.
Public Viewing:
Available 12th & 13th October 2024 from 09:00 until 17:00, at The Stafford County Showground (The Classic Motorcycle Mechanics Show).
Lot 205
The Ivan Kessell Collection
1921 Sun Villiers 293cc Lightweight
Registration no. BP 5702
Frame no. 156
Engine no. 402
Birmingham-based Sun started life in 1885 as a maker of incandescent lamps, adding cycle components to its portfolio in the 1890s. manufacturer and built its first motorcycle in 1911. The newcomer was powered by a Precision engine, and the firm would use power units from various outside suppliers until it ceased motorcycle production at the end of 1932. During WWI Sun had formed the VTS company to take over manufacture of the 'Valveless Two-stroke' concern, rebranding these engines as 'Vitesse' (there was also, briefly, a 'Vitesse' motorcycle). After WW2 Sun recommenced motorcycle production with an autocycle, and concentrated thereafter on Villiers-powered lightweights.
This rare Vintage-era Sun is powered by a 293cc Vitesse two-stroke engine and has a Sturmey Archer gearbox. An older restoration, the Sun has been on long-term museum display and will require recommissioning, or possibly more extensive restoration, before further use and thus is sold strictly as viewed. Accompanying paperwork consists of old/ current V5C documents and an old-style green continuation logbook listing Ivan Kessell as owner from May 1978.
All lots are sold 'as is/ where is' and Bidders must satisfy themselves as to the provenance, condition, age, completeness and originality prior to bidding. Visit the Bonhams Motorcycles website for all pertinent auction information.
