LOT 113

1938 Rudge 499cc Ulster Engine no. U2478

Sold for US$9,430 inc. premiumLot to be sold without reserve

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Lot 113

1938 Rudge 499cc Ulster

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

1938 Rudge 499cc Ulster
Engine no. U2478

The full potential of Rudge's four-valves-per-cylinder design was slow to emerge, but in 1928 Graham Walker's works 500 became the first motorcycle to win a road race - the Ulster Grand Prix - at an average speed in excess of 80mph, a feat which led to the introduction of the legendary 'Ulster' sports model. Early engines deployed parallel valves in a pent-roof combustion chamber, but then in 1930 a trio of 350s appeared at the Isle of Man with radially disposed valves. This new arrangement emphatically demonstrated its superiority when the Rudge team of Tyrell Smith, Ernie Nott and Graham Walker finished 1st, 2nd and 3rd in the Junior TT. Nott, Walker, Smith and Wal Handley were entered on 500s in the Senior race, Handley finishing 1st at a record speed of 74.24mph with Walker 2nd, Smith 6th and Nott 7th, winning for Rudge the coveted Team Prize. Not surprisingly, the Rudge Ulster was the machine to own in 1930.

There is little history known on this Rudge Ulster which is offered without documents. Having been displayed for some time at the late vendors private museum, it will need recommissioning to a greater or lesser extent.

Saleroom notices

Please note that the frame number is 64457, which is dated to 1939. Thus, the frame is from 1939 and engine from 1938 and the title will be in transit.

Additional information

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