Description
H&H Classic Auction @ National Motorcycle Museum | Solihull, West Midlands
30th Oct, 2024 13:00
c. 1920s Coventry Eagle 2¾HP
From The Fred Evans Collection
Registration No: Unregistered
Frame No: 3606 (Not visible)
MOT: Exempt
Part of a private collection
Ideal Banbury eligible machine
Restored many years ago
The Hotchkiss, Mayo and Meek bicycle company relocated from Hill Cross Works to Lincoln Street in Coventry following the death of Hotchkiss and departure of Meek during 1897. Renamed the Coventry Cycle Co with Bernard Rotherham joining Edward Mayo as owner, the firm diversified into motorcycles two years later. Initially concentrating on four-stroke engines, the company started fitting Villiers two-stroke units in 147cc, 172cc, Twin-Port and Super Sport guises from 1928 onwards. Although, the practice was commonplace in Europe, Coventry Eagle was the first major British manufacturer to use pressed sheet steel for forks (and not just cycle parts), No stranger to competition, the Coventry marque ceased production during the early years of World War Two.
Acquired by the late Fred Evans for the Coventry Eagle section of his collection, this 2¾hp model was used for a variety of rallies and steam events before being laid-up. An older restoration that has lain dormant in recent years, it is not currently registered with the DVLA. In need of recommissioning and wearing a number plate which does not belong to it, the Coventry Eagle is nonetheless a rare and interesting survivor. Offered without documentation.
