Description
This motorcycle is Lot 307 - To be auctioned by Bonhams at The Spring Stafford Sale (The International Classic MotorCycle Show) on 26th & 27th April, please see the Bonhams website for full details.
Auction Timings:
Lots 101 - 147 are to be sold from 14:00 on Saturday 26th April 2025.
Lots 201 - 410 are to be sold from 11:00 on Sunday 27th April 2025.
Public Viewing:
Available 26th & 27th April 2025 from 09:00 until 17:00, at The Stafford County Showground (The International Classic MotorCycle Show).
Lot 307
1931 Rudge 499cc TT Replica Racing Motorcycle
Registration no. not registered
Frame no. 51290
Engine no. 345
The full potential of Rudge's four-valves-per-cylinder design was slow to emerge, but in 1928 Graham Walker's works 500 became the first motorcycle to win a road race - the Ulster Grand Prix - at an average speed in excess of 80mph, a feat which led to the introduction of the legendary 'Ulster' sports model. Early engines deployed parallel valves in a pent-roof combustion chamber, then in 1930 a trio of 350s appeared at the Isle of Man with radially-disposed valves, the new arrangement demonstrating its superiority when the Rudges finished 1, 2, 3 in the Junior TT. The next move was to produce a 'head for the 500 featuring parallel inlet valves and radial exhausts, and this semi-radial arrangement debuted on the works bikes for 1931. Chief advantage of the semi-radial valve gear was its reduced complication, but although the works 500s proved every bit as fast as before, they were beset by handling problems. Altered weight distribution caused by re-positioning the magneto behind the cylinder was diagnosed as the culprit, and the mag was promptly moved back to its original position.
This Rudge TT Replica was purchased from Bonhams 2020 Winter Sale (Lot 243) and formed part of the National Motorcycle Museum collection. Since its acquisition by the current vendor, significant engine work has been carried out including a bottom end rebuild (fitted with the correct TT conrod); cylinder head rebuild (using the correct TT head with the oval inlet port) and a gearbox rebuild. We're advised by the vendor it will need further fettling for regular riding.
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.
