Property of a deceased's estate, 1914 Sunbeam 3½hp 499cc with Mills-Fulford sidecar

Registration no. HK 4799 Frame no. 2144 Engine no. 2184 B

• Desirable veteran outfit
• Long term ownership (since 1984)
• History since 1971
• No reserve

John Marston's Sunbeam bicycles had already established a peerless reputation when, in 1912, he introduced the first Sunbeam motorcycle. This was the 2¾hp, a 349cc side valve single with a two-speed gear. The early design work had been done by Harry Stevens before his involvement with the rival AJS concern. Meanwhile John Marston had recruited John Greenwood as the Sunbeam designer. Greenwood had previously worked for Rover & JAP, but this must have been a happy appointment for he stayed with Sunbeam until his retirement over 20 years later. His hand can be seen in everySunbeam manufactured during his tenure and for some time afterwards.

In June 1913 a JAP 770cc powered machine with a three-speed gearbox was introduced, and then just three months later came the new 3½hp model, a 499cc side valve single with the same three speed gearbox. This was truly a gentleman's motorcycle, but sporting success came quickly, both in reliability trials and road racing. At the 1914 Senior TT Howard Davies took joint 2nd place, and Sunbeam won the team prize. Sunbeam motorcycles were to become as renowned as their bicycle cousins for the same superb workmanship and the best finish in the industry. They were also reassuringly expensive.

The key to recognizing a veteran Sunbeam single is the central bulge in the timing case which accommodates the geared drive to the magneto. From 1915 Sunbeams had chain driven magnetos. This splendid Veteran Sunbeam outfit has had just two owners since 1971 when it was sold by Wally Lambert to Geoff Morris (a photocopy of the bill is supplied). It completed many Pioneer Runs in Geoff's hands, and he sold it only to facilitate the purchase of a v-twin veteran Sunbeam. It then passed, in October 1984 via the late Brian Verrall, to the late owner. He in turn rode it in at least ten Pioneer Runs and more than twenty Oude Klepper parades until his death aged 96 in 2019.

It is accompanied by a very early 1921 buff log book in slightly distressed condition, Pioneer certificate no. 676, a green continuation log book from 1972, a V5C which records the previous registered keeper as Brian R. Verrall, and other assorted paperwork and photographs. The Sunbeam was restored many years ago by Wally Lambert who also found and fitted the charming Mills-Fulford sidecar which is equipped with a period windscreen and weather protection. Geoff Morris recalled that the inside of the Sunbeam's chaincase was date-stamped November 27th, 1913.

It has not been run for about a year, and careful re-commissioning is recommended before further use. Prospective bidders must satisfy themselves as to the outfit's completeness and mechanical condition prior to bidding.