c.1919 Douglas 2¾hp

Frame no. 42067 Engine no. 40813

Footnotes

• An older restoration
• Interesting complement of accessories
• Useful file

The Bristol-based Douglas Foundry took up motorcycle production in 1907 with a machine powered by a horizontally-opposed, twin-cylinder engine, and the company would keep faith with this layout until it ceased motorcycle production in 1957. Fore-and-aft installation made for a slim machine with a low centre of gravity, and the design's virtues were soon demonstrated in competition, 2¾hp Douglas machines taking 1st, 2nd and 4th places in the 1912 Junior TT in the Isle of Man. Douglas were quick to realise the advantages of the countershaft gearbox, its three-speed entries gaining the Team Prize in the 1914 Six Days Trial, a conspicuous success that resulted in the firm obtaining a wartime contract for the supply of military machines. Douglas' success continued after The Great War. In its publicity announcing the 1924 models the company claimed that 'well over 75,000 Douglas 2¾hp machines are giving satisfaction every day to their owners.' No need was seen for major changes.

An older restoration, this early Douglas features a Centrolite projector headlight, Cowes motor horn, Miller rear light, and leather pannier bags. Accompanying paperwork includes a selection of photographs; a quantity of photocopied literature; a reproduction 1916 handbook; 1923 catalogue; parts list (1912 onwards); and an original 1914 Douglas specifications and prices book.

Anciennement restaurée, cette Douglas des débuts de la marque possède son phare projecteur Centrolite, son avertisseur électrique Cowes, son feu arrière Miller et ses sacoches en cuir. Le dossier qui l'accompagne comprend une sélection de photos, des photocopies de textes techniques, un manuel d'utilisation de 1916 (reproduction) ; un catalogue de 1923, une liste de pièces (à partir de 1912) et un livret d'origine de 1914 donnant les caractéristiques et les prix des Douglas.


It should be noted that these vehicles have either been on display in the museum or kept in store since Peter and Ulrike passed away. Their present mechanical condition is not known; accordingly, perspective bidders must satisfy themselves with regards to their condition, completeness, correctness, or otherwise prior to bidding.

On notera que depuis le décès de Peter et d'Ulrike ces véhicules ont été maintenus en exposition dans le musée ou entreposés. L'état actuel réel des mécaniques est inconnu et les éventuels acquéreurs devront s'assurer par eux-mêmes de la condition, de l'intégrité, de l'authenticité et autres points relatifs à la qualité des machines avant de porter leurs enchères.