c.1939 Rudge Whitworth 499cc 'Ulster'

Registration no. AMJ 473 Frame no. not visible Engine no. 6293 (see text)

Rudge were early adopters of technology, and were one of the first to provide a four-speed gearbox, four-valve cylinder heads, and interconnected brakes, not to mention the lever-operated centre stand. The sports model was the 499cc Ulster, so named following the firm's win in the Ulster Grand prix in 1928. From 1934 the Rudge Ulster was equipped with an aluminium bronze four valve cylinder head. 'AMJ 473' was purchased by the deceased owner in 1987. He was not impressed by the quality of assembly, and therefore decided to give the bike to a professional restorer to correct the inadequacies of the previous owner. Accordingly, it was placed with Robin James of Leominster. There followed a period of work and, after exchanges of invoices and letters detailing progress, the work ended in 1988. We are not aware of whether the Rudge was ever used on the road after this time, and it has been dry garage-stored and not used since approximately 1988. The engine number on the documentation does not match that on the engine, indicating that the engine, or crankcases, have been changed. A crankcase half, numbered U1504, accompanies the machine. Requiring thorough safety checks and re-commissioning, the Rudge is sold strictly as viewed. Prospective bidders should satisfy themselves as to the vintage, suitability, and compatibility of its components prior to bidding. Documentation comprises a current V5C, an old V5C, the aforementioned correspondence/invoices, Rudge Enthusiasts Journals, plus sundry papers. The machine is presently on SORN.