1936 New Imperial 350CC Model 46

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

1936 New Imperial 350CC Model 46
Frame no. 106/32091/RZ
Engine no. 116/40355/46

*Long term ownership
*A motorcycle for the discerning gentleman

Builder of the last British-made machine to win the Lightweight 250cc TT on the Isle of Man in 1936, the New Imperial marque was unsurpassed for innovation during the 1930s, introducing models featuring their own design of pivoted fork rear suspension along with unitary construction of the engine and gearbox. Like many manufacturers based in the heart of the British motor industry in Birmingham, New Imperial could trace its roots back to a cycle company bought by Norman Downs in 1900. Early motorcycles adopted Precision and JAP engines and in the 1920s the company concentrated their racing efforts on the 250cc class, particularly racing on the motorcycle-friendly Isle of Man, winning the 250cc class in the TT of 1921 and snatching the victor's laurels again in the Lightweight TT in 1924 and 1925. By the late 1920s New Imperial had come of age, abandoning proprietary engine units in favor of well-engineered power units of their own manufacture.

The 344cc Model 46, with its all-new overhead-valve engine in unit construction with the gearbox, was introduced for the 1936 season. In 1937 New Imperial introduced their own sprung frame design for the Model 46. The New Imperial Model 46 was for the discerning motorcyclist, rather like the Brough Superior or Montgomery offerings, and was not inexpensive. De Luxe versions of the Model 46 were offered with foot-change gearbox option, mag/dyno ignition/lighting, chromium plated tank and valanced mudguards. Production of the model was curtailed upon the outbreak of hostilities in 1939.

Although there is little history known of this New Imperial, it took pride of place in the late vendors private museum with New Imperial being quite the rarity in the USA. In need of recommissioning to a greater or lesser extent, these wonderful examples of 1930's engineering are a testament to that time and are a joy to own and use, a wonderful opportunity to acquire a unique motorcycle.

Saleroom notices

Please note that correct frame no. is 106/32091/R and the title will be in transit.

Additional information

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