1920 Sirrah 200cc Union
Engine no. A287

Collectors' Motorcycles at the Barber Museum|5 October 2019, 12:00 CDT|Birmingham, Barber Motorsports Museum

1920 Sirrah 200cc Union
Engine no. A287

A Mr. Harris designed the Sirrah motorcycles that were manufactured by Alfred Wiseman Ltd of Glover Street, Birmingham together with a further upmarket Verus range, and the Weaver Motor-Cyclette. There's no question that the name choice is strange for the archaic word 'sirrah' - related to 'sir' even though each word has an opposing connotation – was used to address inferiors, sir superiors! Just how this motorcycle got named this way is a mystery. Wiseman, self-described as 'Mechanical and Electrical Engineers, Ironfounders, Machinists and Contractors', built motorcycles for a few years in the early 1920s using a variety of proprietary engines from the likes of Blackburne, Bradshaw, JAP and Union as well as some of its own manufacture. A single frame design capable of accommodating various different power units was a Sirrah hallmark, and its manufacturer claimed that their bikes would 'stand up against bad weather, bad roads, bad treatment, and win through every time.' The example offered here is powered by a 292cc Union two-stroke engine, which drives the rear wheel directly via a belt.

Clearly this Sirrah is in a time capsule and yet in spite of its very rough appearance it is thought to be substantial and complete enough to be restored, or just recommissioned. Done right it could well be a star attraction in anyone's collection. When have you seen another one? It is offered strictly 'as-is.'

Footnotes

Offered on a Bill of Sale

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 u2235. The engine number is 287.

Additional information

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