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LOT 265

1957 Douglas 350cc Dragonfly Project Registration no. TYP 238 Frame no. unable to locate Engine no. 2187-6

Sold for £1,265 inc. premiumLot to be sold without reserve
Lot 265

1957 Douglas 350cc Dragonfly Project
Registration no. TYP 238 Frame no. unable to locate Engine no. 2187-6

1957 Douglas 350cc Dragonfly Project
Registration no. TYP 238
Frame no. unable to locate
Engine no. 2187-6

An extensively redesigned flat twin replaced Douglas's earlier models in 1955. Known as the Dragonfly, the newcomer featured a revised engine with stronger crankcase, single carburettor, alternator electrics and coil ignition. The duplex swinging-arm frame employed conventional Girling dampers in place of the preceding torsion bar set-up, while the old Radiadraulic front fork was dropped in favour of an Earles-type leading-link arrangement. The large headlamp nacelle extending back to the five-gallon fuel tank was another distinctive feature, though one of dubious practical merit as the light unit did not turn with the handlebars.

Douglas's final model, the Dragonfly did not receive the development it deserved, production ceasing in March 1957 following the company's take-over by Westinghouse. Classic Bike magazine tested a Dragonfly in 1982, finding that although its top speed (79mph estimated) was down when compared to more modern machinery, it nevertheless offered remarkable grip and surefootedness in tricky conditions. Its 3.25-gallon tank and fuel consumption of around 80 miles per gallon attracted favourable comment too.

This repainted and partially dismantled example is offered for completion and sold strictly as viewed. The machine comes with an old-style continuation logbook and an old V5.

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 2187/6.

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