Description
This motorcycle is Lot 343 - 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 343
The Green House Farm Collection
1912 Torpedo 499cc
Registration no. CW 1801
Frame no. B1808
Engine no. 9427
First seen at the 1910 Olympia Show, the Torpedo motorcycle was manufactured in Barton-upon-Humber, North Lincolnshire by F Hopper & Co, initially using Precision engines of 2½ and 3½ horsepower. Subsequently Hopper introduced a 4¼hp model, a 190cc lightweight and a v-twin. The company ceased building complete motorcycles after 1915.
This Veteran rarity was purchased by the vendor's late father (Geoffrey Pollard) in 1972. A new drive-side crankcase was cast and the engine rebuilt with a new crankpin, main bearings, valves, and guides, while the magneto was reconditioned in the late 1990s. We are advised the pedals are really only needed for starting as the Torpedo has plenty of power, and the vendor has not found a hill it cannot ascend. The front braking system is non-original. The Torpedo has completed several Pioneer Runs, plus various local runs over the years, including the Banbury Run with a clean ascent up Sunrising Hill!
The machine has been kept in heated, dry storage with all fuel drained and carburettors cleaned following each use. Although not used very often in recent years, it has been periodically started. The vendor is thinning down his collection, hence the reason for sale. Accompanying documentation includes a Pioneer Certificate, some expired tax discs, and a current V5C. The original crankcase half is included in the sale.
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.
