LOT 314 N
1930 Ascot-Pullin 498cc Registration no. GC 7401 (see Text) Frame no. 181 Engine no. AP181
Sold for £19,550 inc. premium
Lot 314N
1930 Ascot-Pullin 498ccRegistration no. GC 7401 (see Text) Frame no. 181 Engine no. AP181
The Autumn Stafford Sale: The Classic Motorcycle Mechanics Show|20 October 2019, 11:00 BST|Stafford, Staffordshire County Showground
1930 Ascot-Pullin 498cc
Registration no. GC 7401 (see Text)
Frame no. 181
Engine no. AP181
Registration no. GC 7401 (see Text)
Frame no. 181
Engine no. AP181
One of only eight-or-so surviving examples of 1914 TT-winner Cyril Pullin's revolutionary design, 'GC 7401' has belonged to the current vendor since 1985. Introduced in 1928, the Ascot-Pullin was manufactured in Letchworth, Hertfordshire. Advertised as, "The New Wonder Motorcycle", it was packed with innovations inspired by car-industry practice but failed to appeal to the notoriously conservative motorcycling public. The engine was a horizontally mounted overhead-valve single that drove the in-unit three-speed gearbox via helical gears, while a pressed-steel frame enclosed not only the engine/gearbox unit but also the fuel and oil tanks. A pressed-steel dashboard housed the rest of the instrumentation, together with electrical switch gear and ignition/air controls.
The foregoing notwithstanding, the Ascot-Pullin's most novel feature was its hydraulic brakes, possibly the first on a motorcycle. Although they would eventually be sorted out, the machine's teething problems fatally tarnished its reputation, and production ceased in 1929 after between 400 and 500 had been built.
Although an older restoration, 'GC 7401' benefits from new engine bearings (fitted in 2016) and a rebuilt gearbox with new second gear. Last run in March 2019 and described by the private vendor as in 'generally very good' condition mechanically (engine and gearbox), the machine would nevertheless benefit from cosmetic improvement. This ultra-rare motorcycle is offered with a quantity of photocopied marque-related literature. The machine displays VRN 'GC 7401' however, there are no registration documents offered with the machine and the Vehicle Registration Number no longer appears on the HPI database therefore, prospective bidders must satisfy themselves as to the validity of the VRN prior to bidding.
The foregoing notwithstanding, the Ascot-Pullin's most novel feature was its hydraulic brakes, possibly the first on a motorcycle. Although they would eventually be sorted out, the machine's teething problems fatally tarnished its reputation, and production ceased in 1929 after between 400 and 500 had been built.
Although an older restoration, 'GC 7401' benefits from new engine bearings (fitted in 2016) and a rebuilt gearbox with new second gear. Last run in March 2019 and described by the private vendor as in 'generally very good' condition mechanically (engine and gearbox), the machine would nevertheless benefit from cosmetic improvement. This ultra-rare motorcycle is offered with a quantity of photocopied marque-related literature. The machine displays VRN 'GC 7401' however, there are no registration documents offered with the machine and the Vehicle Registration Number no longer appears on the HPI database therefore, prospective bidders must satisfy themselves as to the validity of the VRN prior to bidding.
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
This lot is offered with some related literature and photographs.
Additional information
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Auction Viewings
- 19 October 2019, 09:00 - 17:00 BST
- 20 October 2019, 09:00 - 17:00 BST
Lot symbols
| N | NOVA declaration |
| If purchased by a UK resident, this machine is subject to a NOVA declaration, whilst the responsibility of submitting the NOVA rests with the Buyer to do so, Bonhams will facilitate the process by engaging an agent (SHIPPIO) to undertake the NOVA and C88 (customs) application if applicable on the Buyer's behalf. A fee of £350 + VAT to do so will be added to the Buyer's invoice. |
