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LOT 251

c.1939 Royal Enfield 125cc 'Flying Flea' Military Motorcycle Registration no. NSV 682 Frame no. 1345 Engine no. V2588

Sold for £1,840 inc. premiumLot to be sold without reserve
Lot 251

c.1939 Royal Enfield 125cc 'Flying Flea' Military Motorcycle
Registration no. NSV 682 Frame no. 1345 Engine no. V2588

c.1939 Royal Enfield 125cc 'Flying Flea' Military Motorcycle
Registration no. NSV 682
Frame no. 1345
Engine no. V2588

A 125cc version of DKW's advanced two-stroke lightweight - the 98cc RT – Royal Enfield's smallest model first appeared in 1939. Known as the 'Flying Flea', it was supplied to the British Army's Airborne Division in large numbers during WW2. Suitably crated up, the Flying Flea (and similar James ML) would be dropped by parachute from gliders to enhance the mobility of attacking forces. When hostilities ended, the Flying Flea re-emerged in civilian guise as the RE. The unitary construction engine incorporated a three-speed, hand-change gearbox, and this ensemble was installed in a rigid frame fitted with rubber-suspended girder front fork. A banana-shaped exhaust header pipe for 1948 and a telescopic front fork for 1950 were the only changes of significance before the RE was extensively revamped for 1951 with a new, much improved engine and loop-type, full cradle frame. In this form the RE2, as it had become known, ran on into 1953 before being dropped, although the 148cc 'Ensign' version continued.
Finished in military green livery, and equipped with the post-war exhaust, this example of Britain's much-loved military flyweight is offered with an old-style V5 document.

Footnotes

As with all Lots in the Sale, this Lot is sold 'as is/where is' and Bidders must satisfy themselves as to the provenance, condition, age, completeness and originality prior to bidding.

Saleroom notices

The frame number is not visible due to heavy paint coverage.

Additional information

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  • 19 October 2019, 09:00 - 17:00 BST
  • 20 October 2019, 09:00 - 17:00 BST

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