Description
This motorcycle is Lot 217 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 217
From the estate of the late Dave Benson
1939 Francis-Barnett 249cc Seagull
Registration no. EBY 197
Frame no. JC37243
Engine no. UU385
Founded by Gordon Francis and Arthur Barnett, Francis-Barnett set up shop in the old Excelsior works in Coventry in 1919. The downturn in the motorcycle market in the early 1920s prompted F-B to switch from producing expensive, high quality machines to the more utilitarian. First seen in 1923, the first of these was the triangulated, pin-jointed, straight-tube frame models whose novel method of construction gave rise to the 'Built Like A Bridge' advertising slogan. With the exception of a pair of Blackburne-engined four-strokes introduced in 1935, Francis-Barnett used Villiers two-stroke engines exclusively throughout the 1930s. Powered by a long-stroke (63x80mm) Villiers engine, the 249cc Seagull debuted in 1935 as the Model 42/ 43 and remained a feature of the range into 1940.
First registered on 17th February 1939, this Seagull has been registered to the late Dave Benson since December 1995 (according to the HPI sheet). Notable features include a Smiths 80mph speedometer and an original Lycett saddle. Accompanying documentation consists of an old-style continuation logbook (1954); old-style V5; photocopy older V5; and some photocopied magazine articles. A copy of Francis-Barnett Hints & Spares comes with the machine.
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.
