1930 Montgomery JAP 750cc Sidevalve

Frame no. T093 Engine no. MT/W868/S

• The 'Super machine' - William Montgomery
• Mighty JAP engine

"These Montgomery machines are for the men who prefer a distinctive mount in appearance and performance. That extra degree of soundness – those little touches which distinguish the 'super' machine from the mere motorcycle, come naturally to the Montgomery and at a price that is amazingly low." – William Montgomery

William J. Montgomery entered the world of motorcycle manufacturing, making a performance-oriented machine in 1913, in Bury St. Edmunds, a small town in Suffolk, England. Like many small manufacturers in the period, they utilized well-made proprietary components. However, Montgomery produced their own frames and forks, and even sold these pieces to competitors such as George Brough. The first bike produced by the company was entirely built by the company, except for the engine that was a flat twin made by Morton & Weaver. Producing high-end and expensive motorcycles in the 1930's was probably very difficult with a small market. In 1930, Montgomery manufactured a series of motorcycles based upon only two frame variants; small two-strokes on one side and larger single cylinder sidevalve engines for their DeLuxe frame. Additionally, a 750cc V-twin J.A.P. powered motorcycle was included in the latter series of machines.

J.A. Prestwich Industries was founded in 1895 by engineer John Alfred Prestwich in Tottenham UK, producing essentially cinematographic equipment and internal combustion engines branded as JAP. The first engine that the company produced was designed and built in 1901 and then used in its first motorcycle in 1903. After few evolutions, the company decided to stop producing motorcycle in 1908 to focus on engine production only. JAP was not exclusively producing engines for motorcycles, but also for aircraft and power tools like chainsaws. In automobile, JAP engines were usually associated with performance and therefore racing.

This 1930 Montgomery being offered is both handsome and elegant with a black primary finish highlighted with a white panel on top of the petrol tank and the bike discreetly lined in gold pin striping. On the sides of the tank, the Montgomery name appears artistically in gold script while rubber John Bull knee pads protect the finish. This J.A.P. engine is a sidevalve motor of 750cc displacement with air-cooled covers over the exhaust valves. The highly polished engine cases are a delight to enjoy. Ignition is provided by magneto located forward of the engine. An Albion gearbox with a 3-speed hand shift completes the package. It can be described as a touring motorcycle capable of extended use at a high rate of speed. Unfortunately, World War II forced the small English company to shut down and production ceased in 1939.

This is an extremely rare motorcycle that went through some nice cosmetic restoration. With its sleek appearance and twin exhaust pipes running along the side, you'll fall in love with this machine. If you appreciate high performing English motorcycles from the 1930's, this is an iconic motorcycle you need to own. Although it looks fantastic, the bike still needs some work mechanically. It seems like the carburetor is not period correct and the JAP engine would need a thorough recommissioning. The bike is sold as-is and would be a great candidate for simple display or to revive its mechanics and make it run as it should.