c.1936 Ivory Calthorpe 500cc

Registration no. unregistered Frame no. to be advised Engine no. M5/2244

• An older restoration
• Original 'Sunburst' horn and 'Calthorpe Creamer' front fork adjuster
• Offered for re-commissioning

Manufactured by the Minstrel & Rea Cycle Company, of Birmingham, the first Calthorpe motorcycle appeared in 1909 powered by a 3.5hp White & Poppe engine. The following year there were no fewer than six Calthorpe models displayed at the Motor Cycle Show at Olympia, some of which featured an 'free' engine clutch and two-speed gear. Precision-engined models, including a 5/6hp v-twin, joined the line-up a few years later together with an overhead-valve 'Tourist Trophy' model. By 1919 the range had shrunk to just two lightweight models: a 293cc JAP and a Peco-powered two-stroke. In 1928 the first of the famous 'Ivory' Calthorpes appeared, so called because of its distinctive finish to fuel tank and mudguards. By 1930 the Ivory had gained a new 350cc overhead-valve inclined engine with twin-port cylinder head. Two new Ivories were added for 1932: a 250cc two-stroke with Villiers-based engine - the Ivory Minor - and a 494cc version of the ohv model. The Minor lasted for little more than a season before the Calthorpe range was reduced to just the 494cc Ivory Major. The Minor was revived in 1934, but this time with a 250cc four-stroke engine, while the 350 returned for 1935 as the Ivory Junior. South London dealers Pride & Clarke held exclusive sales rights to the range for 1937 but Calthorpe would not survive for much longer, going into receivership in 1938. The brand was revived briefly post-war by DMW, though production machines used the latter's name only.

Incorporating a 350 frame and a 500 engine, this Ivory Calthorpe features the correct original 'Sunburst' horn and 'Calthorpe Creamer' front fork adjuster, both of which are rare. The machine is an older restoration in need of re-commissioning; known issues include the kick-starter (catches at the top of the swing); the de-compressor lever (not connected); and the oil pump (non-functioning). Accordingly, the machine is sold strictly as viewed. Offered with a selection of invoices, there are no registration documents with this Lot.