1913 James 4 1/4hp Combination
Engine no. J2190

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

1913 James 4 1/4hp Combination
Engine no. J2190

Like many famous and not so famous motorcycle firms, the one founded by Harry James in 1880 started out as a bicycle company. Based initially in Sparkbrook and then Greet in Birmingham, the James Cycle Company built its first motorcycle, a Minerva-powered machine, in 1902. The first model to be powered by James's own engine followed in 1908; this was the 'safety' James, a radical design featuring wheels carried on stub axles, scooter-fashion. More orthodox designs followed, with two-stroke, sidevalve, overhead-valve, single-cylinder and twin-cylinder models featuring in the range before the end of the 1920s.

In 1912 a conventional and well-made 4¼hp machine with a 557cc engine appeared. It was on this model that the so-called 'pineapple' cylinder finning was first seen, where each successive fin was staggered at 90 degrees. According to the handbook, this arrangement provided more efficient cooling, with the extremities having more air available than with conventionally arranged fins. From 1912 a Villiers hub clutch was available (Model 2) or a three-speed Sturmey Archer hub (Model 3). James's connection with Villiers would become important in the future.
The bike was purchased by the seller in the early 1990s and has not run since about 15 years. It has been stored since then.

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

Please note this machine carries AMA Certificate #459, and the title will be in transit.

Additional information

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