1956 Sunbeam S-8

The Amelia Island Auction|3 March 2022, 10:00 EST|Fernandina Beach Golf Club

1956 Sunbeam S-8
Frame no. S8-98804
Engine no. S8-9880

The Sunbeam inline twin was introduced by BSA, owners of Sunbeam Cycles Limited, in 1947. Designed by Erling Poppe as a luxury tourer inspired by the pre-war BMW, it was of advanced specification with overhead-camshaft engine, shaft drive, and plunger rear suspension. The first S7 version was equipped with balloon tires, a feature not carried over to the deliberately more conventional, and also lighter and cheaper, S8 introduced in 1949. The front fork and brake were now standard BSA components and there were numerous other changes in the interests of rationalization.
Featuring sprung comfort saddles for both driver and passenger and wearing the manufacturer's original specification cast aluminum parallelogram-style exhaust, it is easy to envision the machine presented here being put through its civilized paces in the countryside. Perhaps it might even approach its reported top speed of 85mph. First, a thorough service would be in order of course, as the bike has been a static part of Mr. Charles' collection for quite some time. Having received a rich silver repaint at some point, it presents very well as it sits now, and could be enjoyed immediately for its many distinctive visual cues, such as the longitudinal engine finning across both cylinder and sump, and the deep recess on the side of the left side of the engine to accommodate the ignition coil.

Saleroom notices

Please note, the title will be in transit.

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