LOT 327

The Anthony R. East Classic Motorcycle Collection c.1932 Triumph 494cc Silent Scout Model B Registration no. CWP 821 Frame no. K1574 Engine no. K1582 DWA

Sold for £13,225 inc. premiumLot to be sold without reserve

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Lot 327

The Anthony R. East Classic Motorcycle Collection, c.1932 Triumph 494cc Silent Scout Model B

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
c.1932 Triumph 494cc Silent Scout Model B
Registration no. CWP 821
Frame no. K1574
Engine no. K1582 DWA

• Built for three years only
• Purchased by Tony East in 2001
• Fully restored
• Only four miles since completion

Triumph's two 'Silent Scout' models were newly introduced in March 1932: the 549cc Mode A sidevalve and the Model B with a 493cc overhead-valve engine, both of had cylinders inclined forwards in the fashionable 'Sloper' manner. As its name suggests, the Val Page-designed Silent Scout was intended to be relatively quiet; pushrods were enclosed and harmonic cams fitted, and the machine could be supplied with optional enclosure panels that shrouded the engine and gearbox. A Model BS sports version joined the range in 1933. Unfortunately, for Triumph, the Silent Scout was far to expensive to make and would prove to be short-lived, the Model A disappearing from the line-up at the end of the 1933 and the B Models at the end of 1934. Very few were sold, with some being exported to Europe and Iceland. There's no denying, though, that the sporting Model B, as seen here, was one exceedingly handsome motorcycle. Notable features include a twin-port cylinder head, oil tank in crankcase, exposed valve springs, and a four-speed hand-change gearbox. Produced for only three years, the Silent Scout is one of the rarest of pre-war Triumphs and highly sought-after by serious Triumph collectors.

One of only eight known to survive, this overhead-valve Model B was purchased by Tony East from a Yorkshire dealer in 2001 in a poor state and fully restored to 'as new' condition, with paintwork by Allan Templeton. Interestingly, the instruments set in the top of the tank include a rubber oil pressure gauge, not the usual dial - the rubber gauge pops up and stands proud when the correct oil pressure has been reached! Only four shake-down miles have been covered since restoration. Accompanying paperwork includes a Silent Scout parts catalogue; BMS photocopied Triumph Silent Scout spare parts list and workshop manual; and a current V5C document. A very rare motorcycle - you will struggle to find another one.

Footnotes

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