1928 Douglas 498cc DT5 (to SW5 specification)

• Rare overhead-valve competition model
• Formerly owned by dirt-track racer Jim Gregory
• Converted from DT5 to SW5 specification by the previous owner
• Recent extensive refurbishment (bills available)
• Beautifully presented history file

Bristol-based Douglas commenced motorcycle production in 1907 with a machine powered by a horizontally-opposed twin. Fore-and-aft installation made for a slim machine with a low centre of gravity, virtues that were soon demonstrated in competition, Douglas machines taking 1st, 2nd and 4th places in the 1912 Isle of Man Junior TT. When speedway racing arrived in Britain in 1928, the new sport quickly caught the public's imagination and before long almost all major UK manufacturers listed a dirt-track model, Douglas being the first to establish dominance with its overhead-valve 500cc DT5 and 600cc DT6. The company's inline twins had benefited from much development on the Australian long tracks, but as shorter tracks became the norm in the UK, the DT's otherwise excellent handling could no longer compensate for the handicap of a longish wheelbase. Nevertheless, away from the speedway short tracks, the DT in its less specialised 'SW' form proved a most competitive mount.

For many years this rare 1928 DT5 Douglas was owned by the well-known dirt track racer, Jim Gregory. Having been regularly raced by Gregory, it was then sold to Andrew Glading in 2007. During Mr Glading's ownership, '889 UXW' was further campaigned, including at the Kop and Chalfont hill climbs. Its owner then converted the machine from DT to SW specification. The SW machines were used for general racing work and had the advantage that they could be ridden on the road. These models differed from DT versions only in the provision of brakes for both wheels, full mudguards, a silencer, a nearside footrest, and a flywheel clutch.

Purchased by the current owner in 2016, the Douglas comes complete with a beautifully presented history file containing a quantity of correspondence and various invoices, some providing a detailed breakdown of engine and general refurbishment in 2024 costing over £5,300. The file also contains hill climb history (including 2009 Kop Hill and 2008 Brooklands); general maintenance and running details; photocopies of handbook and brochure; Douglas Motorcycle Club validation certificate; and old/current V5C documents. Key not required.