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LOT 317

1953 James 197cc Commando Registration no. RHU 554 Frame no. J9 000598 Engine no. 318A 1111

Sold for £3,680 inc. premium

1953 James 197cc Commando
Registration no. RHU 554
Frame no. J9 000598
Engine no. 318A 1111

James had begun concentrating on the manufacture of two-stroke lightweights in the 1930s and continued the policy after WWII. In 1951 the company became part of the Associated Motor Cycles group, joining Francis-Barnett. James's models were powered by Villiers engines at first, though from 1957 many used AMC's own engine. Trials and scrambles machines were added to the range in 1949. These early types used Villiers 6E and 7E engines and had rigid frames, but by the end of the 1950s James competition models sported swinging-arm frames and the AMC engine. The latter continued to be fitted to James roadsters until the end of production in 1966, but before then the trials and scrambles models had reverted to Villiers power.

Unfortunately, nothing is known of the history of this restored Commando Trials other than the fact that it was sold new by Fowler's of Bristol to local resident Francis John Jones. The current owner purchased the machine privately in November 2014. The purchase receipt is on file and the machine also comes with its original old-style logbook; some expired MoTs; sundry bills; a V5C document; and an original James Instruction Book. Dry stored and not used for some time, the machine will require recommissioning before further use.

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

The engine number is: 381A 11 11

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