Description
This motorcycle is Lot 308 - 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 308
1933 Francis-Barnett Falcon 196cc Super Sports
Registration no. APC 417
Frame no. C 25981
Engine no. KZS 3179
'APC 417' was registered new, albeit only briefly, to Francis-Barnett specialist T G 'Tommy' Meeten before passing to its only other registered keeper in period. Fitted with Villiers' top-of-the-range 196cc three-speed Super Sports engine, this Falcon came from the collection of Tommy Meeten's godson in 2010, as did the circa 1928 Francis-Barnett Brooklands racing motorcycle in this sale. It appears to have been fitted in period with the older style of gear-change lever rather than the newer tank-mounted gear-change which was then standard. Anecdotally, it seems some sportsmen preferred the longer lever as a gear could be changed with a deft movement of the knee.
This Falcon appears to have had only a short active life, such that the engine and cycle parts were in surprisingly good condition prior to its lengthy professional restoration, which was recently completed by Aspire Classic Restorations at a cost of over £5, 500 (copy invoices available). This lovely Francis-Barnett Falcon is presented in beautiful condition, the time taken to finish the rebuild having resulted in a charming patina. The machine starts and runs well but should, of course, be set-up to suit the new owner.
The original RF60 logbook comes with the machine; the frame, engine, and registration numbers match the original details and the current V5C document. Key not required.
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.
