LOT 228

1935 Rudge 499cc Special Motorcycle Combination Registration no. HMO 884 Frame no. 55115 Engine no. S1620

Sold for £9,775 inc. premium

Lot 228

1935 Rudge 499cc Special Motorcycle Combination

The Autumn Stafford Sale - The Classic Motorcycle Mechanics Show|13 October 2024, 11:00 BST|Stafford, Staffordshire County Showground

1935 Rudge 499cc Special Motorcycle Combination
Registration no. HMO 884
Frame no. 55115
Engine no. S1620

The full potential of Rudge's four-valves-per-cylinder design – introduced in 1924 - was slow to emerge but in 1928 Graham Walker's works 500 became the first motorcycle to win a road race - the Ulster Grand Prix - at an average speed in excess of 80mph, a feat which led to the introduction of the legendary 'Ulster' model. A variety of valve arrangements was tried across a range of 250, 350 and 500cc models, and by the mid-1930s had stabilised: the 500 Special employing a parallel layout and the Ulster a parallel/semi-radial combination. It should be noted that despite its name the Special was the touring 500, the Ulster being the sports version. Landmark developments included the enclosure of the valve-gear for 1937 and the switching of the gearchange lever from the left-hand to the right-hand side of the gearbox. A compact machine with a willing engine and powerful linked brakes, the 500 Special is a delight to ride and copes easily with present-day traffic conditions.

This Rudge Special combination has been in the owner's family for over 15 years and was in regular road use until mid-2021, since when it has been in dry storage. Following a period of inactivity, the machine will require recommissioning, or possibly more extensive restoration, before further use and thus is sold strictly as viewed. Offered with a V5C document.
Key not required

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.

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This Lot will be auctioned on Sunday 13 October starting at 11am GMT.

Additional information

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