1914 J.E.S. 116cc Gentleman's Model

Registration no. EL 1714 Frame no. 172556 Engine no. 1136

Founded in Gloucester in 1910, J.E.S. was building 116cc and 189cc overhead-valve engined machines prior to WWI. By 1914 the J.E.S. range consisted of the Model A with 116cc vertical engine, which remained its sole offering until superseded in 1919 by the 143cc Model B, the latter featuring an inclined motor. In 1921 the 170cc Model C, the firm's first two-stroke, was added to the range. For 1924, the final year of production, there were four models offered: three versions of the 250cc two-stroke and a 350cc four-stroke although, inexplicably, some had reverted to chain-cum-belt transmission.

This J.E.S. was treated to a complete 'last nut and bolt' restoration by the current vendor in 2008. The frame and cycle parts were blast-cleaned and powder coated; all brightwork nickel plated; the fuel tank professionally painted to correct specification; the engine and carburettor overhauled; the magneto rewound by Malthouse Magnetos; new handlebar grips fitted; the tyres and drive belt renewed; and the machine equipped with (re-nickelled) acetylene lamps. Beaded-edge tyres being unavailable, the wheel rims were changed to the modern type, while a Sturmey Archer three-speed hub gear has been fitted for convenience. Believed to be a past Pioneer Run participant, the machine last ran in 2019 and is described by the private vendor as in excellent condition. The history file contains a Pioneer Certificate (issued 1981); a V5C document; and a quantity of marque-related literature.