
LOT 320
The Anthony R. East Classic Motorcycle Collection 1955 Elswick-Vincent 48cc Firefly Cyclemotor Registration no. UMN 957 (Isle of Man) Frame no. NC10149 Engine no. 56129
Sold for £2,875 inc. premiumLot to be sold without reserve
Lot 320
The Anthony R. East Classic Motorcycle Collection, 1955 Elswick-Vincent 48cc Firefly Cyclemotor
The Autumn Stafford Sale – The Classic Motorcycle Mechanics Show|14 October 2023, 10:30 BST|Stafford, Staffordshire County Showground
The Anthony R. East Classic Motorcycle Collection
1955 Elswick-Vincent 48cc Firefly Cyclemotor
Registration no. UMN 957 (Isle of Man)
Frame no. NC10149
Engine no. 56129
1955 Elswick-Vincent 48cc Firefly Cyclemotor
Registration no. UMN 957 (Isle of Man)
Frame no. NC10149
Engine no. 56129
Seeking new products to ease its parlous financial situation, Vincent took over the production of electrical component manufacturer Miller's new cyclemotor in 1953. Known as the Firefly, this 48cc two-stroke unit was designed to fit beneath a bicycle's bottom bracket and drove the rear wheel via a roller. The latter was larger in diameter than many similar devices and was claimed to offered improved traction and reduced tyre wear. Vincent soon offered a complete machine, which featured a lady's-type open frame manufactured for them by Sun. The Firefly outlasted its more famous v-twin brethren, remaining in production until 1958, and must represent by far the cheapest route to Vincent ownership.
This Firefly is attached to an Elswick gentleman's bicycle. The machine is presented in age-related condition and comes with a letter from previous owner Mr David Hamer, who sold it for £120. Additional documentation consists of a Firefly brochure; a substantial quantity of photocopied technical literature; and an NACC document (recording a different frame number).
This Firefly is attached to an Elswick gentleman's bicycle. The machine is presented in age-related condition and comes with a letter from previous owner Mr David Hamer, who sold it for £120. Additional documentation consists of a Firefly brochure; a substantial quantity of photocopied technical literature; and an NACC document (recording a different frame number).
Footnotes
If purchased by a UK resident, this machine will be subject to a NOVA Declaration, which Bonhams will undertake at no cost to the buyer. This declaration facilitates the registration process with the DVLA in the UK.
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
We have not been able to locate the frame number.












Additional information
Looking for a similar item?
Our Motorcycles specialists can help you find a similar item at an auction or via a private sale.
Find your local specialistSpecialist section

Auction Viewings
- 14 October 2023, 09:00 - 17:00 BST
- 15 October 2023, 09:00 - 17:00 BST
Bid now on these items
United Kingdom
Coming soon
1982 Yamaha XS650
£1,800 - £2,400
United Kingdom
Coming soon
1978 Yamaha XS650 Special
£1,800 - £2,400
United Kingdom
Coming soon
c.1965 Yamaha 305 YM1
£1,800 - £2,400
United Kingdom
Coming soon
1972 Ducati 350 Mk3
£2,000 - £5,000
United Kingdom
Coming soon
1976 Moto Guzzi Le Mans MkI
£2,000 - £3,000
United Kingdom
Coming soon
1971 Kawasaki 500 Mach III
£3,000 - £5,000
United Kingdom
Coming soon
1976 Honda CB750
£2,400 - £4,400
United Kingdom
Coming soon
1936 Austin 7 Ruby,
£3,200 - £4,000
United Kingdom
Coming soon
Triumph 5T
£3,000 - £4,000
United Kingdom
Coming soon
Triumph Tiger 100
£3,000 - £4,000
United Kingdom
Coming soon
1971 Honda CB750
£2,400 - £4,400
United Kingdom
Coming soon
Triumph 6T
£3,000 - £4,000
United Kingdom
Coming soon
1978 Ducati SD 900 Darmah
£2,400 - £3,400
United Kingdom
Coming soon
Triumph 6T
£3,000 - £4,000
United Kingdom
A Victorian pedal car, circa 1900,
£1,800 - £2,400























