Description
This motorcycle is Lot 65 to be auctioned by Bonhams at the Timed-Online January Sale, please see the Bonhams website for full details. The timed online auction runs between January 17th through January 27th, with lots closing from midday January 27th 2025.
Public Viewing:
Available 22nd January 2025 from 09:00 until 17:00, by appointment only at Bonhams Milton Keynes.
Lot 65
Offered from the estate of the late Dave Benson, former Life Vice President of the British Two-Stroke Club and its Villiers marque specialist
1965 Royal Enfield 250cc Turbo Twin Sports
Registration no. unregistered
Frame no. 69133
Engine no. 053D 614
The Villiers 2T/ 4T proprietary engine enabled a host of manufacturers to offer a twin-cylinder two-stroke model in the all-important learner market during the 1960s. Royal Enfield's offering used the later 4T engine, which featured a more angular top end incorporating cylinders with four transfer ports (the 2T had only two) and ported pistons. Otherwise the 4T remained much as its predecessor. Enfield fitted the Villiers twin into the lightweight Crusader frame, while the cycle parts were those of the Clipper model. Introduced in November 1963, the original Turbo Twin was replaced in 1964 by the restyled and better-looking Turbo Twin Sports, which featured a chromium-plated fuel tank and mudguards. In this form the model remaining in production until late in 1966.
Frame number '69133' is that of a Turbo Twin sent to R H Kings of Bedford in April 1965. The machine is not registered and there is no record of the frame number on the HPI database. Stored for some time, the machine is offered for restoration and sold strictly as viewed (the engine turns over but the left-hand side panel and points cover are missing). The are are no documents with this Lot and it should be noted that the engine currently fitted is ex-Model 50 Panther.
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.
