LOT 213

The John Hobbs Collection c.1904 Bransom & Kent 300cc Registration no. CD 5422 Frame no. 13271 Engine no. 2725

Sold for £6,900 inc. premiumLot to be sold without reserve

Lot 213

The John Hobbs Collection, c.1904 Bransom & Kent 300cc

The Autumn Stafford Sale – The Classic Motorcycle Mechanics Show|14 October 2023, 10:30 BST|Stafford, Staffordshire County Showground

The John Hobbs Collection
c.1904 Bransom & Kent 300cc
Registration no. CD 5422
Frame no. 13271
Engine no. 2725

• Ultra-rare example of an obscure British marque
• Nicely Presented
• Known by the Sunbeam Motor Cycle Club

Bransom Kent & Co of London EC2 was registered in October 1896, taking over the businesses of William Bransom & Co and the St George's Cycle Co, both firms being active in the cycle fittings trade. In 1901 they introduced a motorcycle called the 'Royal George', basically a primitive powered bicycle with a 1.25hp engine clipped to the down-tube. They also offered a more developed model featuring 2hp Minerva engine in the upright position. In 1902 Bransom & Kent exhibited a Minerva-powered motorcycle under their own name at that year's Stanley Show, but it would appear that they never made complete machines in any volume. Motorcycle production seems to have ceased after 1904, although the firm continued as a maker and supplier of accessories and fittings.

Little is known about this ultra-rare example of an obscure British marque. Restored at date unknown, it has remained unused for some time, but stored in a dry environment hence its lovely condition. Notable features include a stirrup front brake; direct belt drive; and a 'Leathers' of Birmingham saddle. The engine turns over freely but the back-pedalling brake system appears to be jammed, hence the rear wheel will not turn. The accompanying V5C records the date of original registration as 23rd May 1921, this being shortly after the introduction of the Roads Act of 1920, which required local councils to register all vehicles at the time of licensing and to allocate a separate number to each. (Many vehicles, although in existence for several years in some cases, were only registered for the first time after the Act's passing). Requiring recommissioning to a greater or lesser extent, prospective bidders must satisfy themselves as to the condition, completeness, correctness, date and suitability of the machine's component parts prior to bidding. Offered with the aforementioned V5C, a VMCC Display card, an image of John astride the machine (date unknown), some Sunbeam M.C.C correspondence and a quantity of copy marque-related literature. Close inspection and of this nicely presented veteran is highly recommended.

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

This lot is offered with keys.

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