1938 Cotton-JAP 500cc OHV

• Top-of-the range model from a great sporting marque
• Single family ownership since 1989
• Kept dry stored when not in use

Gloucester-based Cotton established its reputation with a string of racing successes in the 1920s thanks to an innovative frame patented by its founder, Frank Willoughby Cotton. Cotton's design featured four straight tubes running from the steering head to the rear wheel spindle, augmented by further straight stays supporting the gearbox and engine. The result was a stiff, lightweight chassis far in advance of the bicycle-derived diamond-type frame used by the majority of manufacturers. Like other small independent firms Cotton relied on proprietary engines but such was the advantage conferred by its frame that the Cotton had little trouble seeing off similarly powered rivals. The legendary Stanley Woods made his Isle of Man TT debut on a Cotton in 1922, going on to win the Junior event at record speed the following year. Countless wins and placings were achieved in international events throughout the 1920s, Cotton's finest TT achievement occurring in 1926 when its entries finished 1, 2, 3 in the 250 Lightweight race.

The current vendor's father-in-law purchased this Cotton-JAP in 1989; it was standing in the corner of Northants Classic Bike Centre's shop looking rather sad (see hand-written receipt for £1,750 on file). The machine was virtually complete but had flat tyres, no control cables or saddle, and had been painted a maroon colour. Once up and running, the bike was used for VMCC runs and owners' club meetings. Sadly, its owner passed away in 2002, since when the vendor has carried on enjoying and looking after the Cotton until today. The machine has kept dry stored in the garage when not in use, and was last taxed in 2014. Recommissioning will be required before further use.

Despite displaying the VRN 'CN 6654' the accompanying V5C and R.F 60 list an alternative frame number (and engine number). Accordingly, the machine is offered unregistered. Therefore, prospective bidders must satisfy themselves as to the status of the registration number.
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