Description
This motorcycle is Lot 271 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 Saturday 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 271
1946 Royal Enfield 346cc Model CO
Registration no. MXS 715
Frame no. M32020
Engine no. 32020 (and CO 1146)
Royal Enfield of Redditch manufactured a range of bewildering and fast-changing variety in the 1930s: 'Slopers' with inclined engines were a feature of the decade's early years, and then in 1936 a revised range with vertical engines began to be phased in, establishing the pattern for Enfield singles for the next 25 years. The first of these new machines were the overhead-valve models G (350cc) and J (500cc), both of which came with coil ignition, dry sump lubrication with oil reservoir contained with the crankcase, and four-speed foot-change gearboxes. Later in the year the line-up expanded with the arrival of the basically similar 250cc overhead-valve S2 and 350cc sidevalve Model C.
In 1940 the 'WD' (War Department) military Model C commenced delivery to UK armed forces and approximately 17, 600 had been produced before the model was superseded by the overhead-valve WD/ CO in 1942. By the war's end more than 29, 000 WD/ C and WD/ CO models had been supplied to Allied forces, some 2, 800-or-so going to the RAF. The CO was not revived after the war, although former military machines rebuilt by the factory were available initially alongside newer versions of the pre-war models G and J, both of which were now equipped with telescopic front forks.
An older restoration with a charming patina, this Model CO has been ridden on various VMCC runs and last ran in May 2024. The vendor is selling in order to reduce his collection on account of his advancing years and health issues. Offered with a current V5C Registration Certificate.
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.
