Description
This motorcycle is Lot 354 - 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 354
1927 Sunbeam 599cc Model 7
Registration no. SV 4884
Frame no. 43548
Engine no. 305 20447
Sunbeam introduced overhead-valve engines in the mid-1920s but early successes were achieved with sidevalve-engined machines, most notably the 492cc (3½hp) 'Longstroke', which secured a debut win at the 1921 French Grand Prix ridden by Alec Bennett. In road-going form this remarkable engine remained in production right up to WW2. Built alongside it from 1922 was a 4¼hp (599cc) model using the same 105. 5mm stroke but a larger bore: the Model 7, which was intended for sidecar use.
This Model 7 was purchased in December 2003 as an incomplete 'basket case' from the Marston Wolverhampton Heritage trust in Wolverhampton (receipt on file) and restored over the next few years, most of the work being carried out in the Marston Trust workshop where the vendor was part of the team. The vendor advises a later engine had been fitted and this was replaced with a correct 1927 engine. The front brake is non-original. Photographs on Bonhams' web site show the machine as purchased and on the workbench during restoration. Since restoration circa 20 years ago, the Sunbeam has seen limited use, in recent times mostly at local shows and Vintage rallies. Now in his seventies, the owner is starting to reduce his collection. Accompanying documents consist of a current V5C and the aforementioned purchase receipt.
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.
