LOT 496

1934 Coventry Eagle 249cc Model K2 Registration no. TYJ 469 Frame no. 83662 Engine no. AU 735 (see text)

Sold for £4,025 inc. premium

Lot 496

1934 Coventry Eagle 249cc Model K2

The Spring Stafford Sale - The International Classic MotorCycle Show|22 April 2023, 11:00 BST|Stafford, Staffordshire County Showground

1934 Coventry Eagle 249cc Model K2
Registration no. TYJ 469
Frame no. 83662
Engine no. AU 735 (see text)

Originally a bicycle manufacturer, Coventry Eagle built a diverse range of motorcycles using proprietary engines, mainly JAP, from 1901 to 1939. A landmark development for the company was the introduction in 1927 of a two-stroke lightweight featuring a novel pressed-steel frame, and this method of construction spread to larger models the following year, remaining a characteristic of the marque until it ceased motorcycle production in 1939. Although Coventry Eagle manufactured its own small-capacity two-stroke engines, the majority of its 'strokers' used Villiers power, like the example offered here.

Current vendor John Hodson is the Sunbeam MCC's Coventry Eagle marque specialist and author of the most comprehensive publication on the make: Coventry Eagle – The History of a Motorcycle Company. Formerly registered 'AKB 501', the machine was purchased by John in December 1993. More recently it has benefited from a rebore and new piston; a magneto overhaul; and two new tyres (invoices on file). This motorcycle was last used circa two years ago. Kept dry stored in the garage under sheet since then, it is only being sold due to John's advancing age and a recent hip operation. Following a period of inactivity, the machine will require recommissioning and thus is sold strictly as viewed.

Accompanying paperwork includes old V5/V5C documents; an expired MoT (1994); marque-related literature; DVLA correspondence; and various bills. It should be noted that the V5/V5C records the engine number as 'AV 735' (actually 'AU 735').
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.

Additional information

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