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LOT 730

1914 J.H. 2½hp Registration no. SV 6901 Frame no. 1002 Engine no. A4078

Sold for £6,325 inc. premium
Lot 730

1914 J.H. 2½hp
Registration no. SV 6901 Frame no. 1002 Engine no. A4078

1914 J.H. 2½hp
Registration no. SV 6901
Frame no. 1002
Engine no. A4078

One of the shortest-lived and most obscure of British motorcycle manufacturers, J.H. was named after its founder, James Howarth, who set up shop in the Mumps district of Oldham in October 1914, shortly after the outbreak of the First World War. Like many similar small-scale manufacturers, Howarth used the readily available Villiers engines, offering an entry-level 269cc two-stroke with direct belt drive, and a 349cc four stroke equipped with a two-speed gear and chain-cum-belt transmission. Larger models powered by JAP and MAG engines were added to the range before J.H. bowed out in 1916 after only two years in existence.

The date of first registration recorded in this machine's accompanying old-style V5 logbook is 19th February 1921, this being shortly after the introduction of the Roads Act of 1920, which required local councils to register all vehicles at the time of licensing and to allocate a separate number to each. (Many vehicles, although in existence for several years in some cases, were only registered for the first time after the Act's passing). Roy Bacon's dating letter on file confirms the J.H.'s manufacturing date of 1914. Described by the private vendor as in very good condition throughout, the machine last ran two years ago and will require re-commissioning before returning to the road. A quantity of tax discs (2004-2014), a V5C document, and a history file come with it.

Saleroom notices

Please note there is a photocopy V5C on file, in addition to an old V5. The buyer will receive an updated V5C following the sale if remaining in the UK. Please click the link to view the walkaround video of Lot 730: click here

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