LOT 531

1928 Douglas 498cc SW5 Speed Model Registration no. SV 6123 Frame no. TF107 Engine no. EU171

Sold for £17,250 inc. premium

Lot 531

1928 Douglas 498cc SW5 Speed Model
Registration no. SV 6123 Frame no. TF107 Engine no. EU171

The Autumn Stafford Sale – The Classic Motorcycle Mechanics Show|16 October 2022, 10:00 BST|Stafford, Staffordshire County Showground

1928 Douglas 498cc SW5 Speed Model
Registration no. SV 6123
Frame no. TF107
Engine no. EU171

Bristol-based Douglas commenced motorcycle production in 1907 with a machine powered by a horizontally-opposed twin. Fore-and-aft installation made for a slim machine with a low centre of gravity, virtues that were soon demonstrated in competition, Douglas machines taking 1st, 2nd and 4th places in the 1912 Isle of Man Junior TT. When speedway racing arrived in Britain in 1928, the new sport quickly caught the public's imagination and before long almost all major UK manufacturers listed a dirt-track model, Douglas being the first to establish dominance with its overhead-valve 500cc DT5 and 600cc DT6. The company's inline twins had benefited from much development on the Australian long tracks, but as shorter tracks became the norm in the UK, the DT's otherwise excellent handling could no longer compensate for the handicap of a longish wheelbase. Nevertheless, away from the speedway tracks, the DT in its less specialised 'SW' form proved a most competitive mount.
This rare overhead-valve Douglas was registered by the current vendor's late father on 1st July 1996 having been rebuilt by him over the preceding few years (note the Norton gearbox). Accompanying paperwork consists of an expired MoT (1997); a V5C document; and a substantial quantity of restoration bills. Unused for some time (the attached tax disc expired in 1997), the machine will require re-commissioning before returning to the road and thus is sold strictly as viewed.
Key not required

Footnotes

All lots are sold 'as is/where is' and Bidders must satisfy themselves as to the provenance, condition, age, completeness and originality prior to bidding.

Saleroom notices

There is no expired 1997 MOT with this lot.

Additional information

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