LOT 218

The Bob Howard Collection 1930 Sunbeam 347cc Model 8 Registration no. WC 1432 Frame no. C8316 Engine no. K3279

Sold for £4,370 inc. premiumLot to be sold without reserve

Lot 218

The Bob Howard Collection, 1930 Sunbeam 347cc Model 8

The Autumn Stafford Sale - The Classic Motorcycle Mechanics Show|12 October 2025, 11:00 BST|Stafford, Staffordshire County Showground

The Bob Howard Collection
1930 Sunbeam 347cc Model 8
Registration no. WC 1432
Frame no. C8316
Engine no. K3279

Sunbeam had begun experimenting with overhead valves on their factory racers in the early 1920s and these duly appeared on production models in 1924. The new 500 roadster was known as the Model 9 while its race bike counterpart, which could top 90mph, was accordingly designated the Model 90. The 350 versions were the Model 8 and Model 80 respectively. The John Greenwood design was advanced for its day, with a specification that included a crankshaft supported by three ball-bearings, dry-sump lubrication, and primary drive enclosed in an cast alloy chaincase. Power was transmitted by single-row chain to a three-speed, 'cross-over drive' gearbox with offside power take off.

This Sunbeam Model 8 was first registered (as 'OG 2533') on 1st April 1930. Unfortunately, the DVLA has declined to reissue the original number and has allocated an age-related registration instead (see Marston Sunbeam Club & Register correspondence on file). In 2012 the Sunbeam was sold by a G Cross of Horncastle to a Jack Williamson of Spilsby, Lincolnshire, from whom Bob Howard purchased it in 2019. Following a period of inactivity, this motorcycle will require recommissioning to a greater or lesser extent and thus is sold strictly as viewed (inspection highly recommended). The machine is offered with a current V5C document; the 2012 and 2019 purchase receipts; factory despatch information; 2024 Marston Register inspection form; DVLA correspondence; and sundry receipts and invoices.

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.
Please see the Auction Information and Guide for Buyers at the top of the main sale page, for bidders' obligations. The Autumn Stafford Sale

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This Lot will be auctioned on Sunday 12 October, with the auction starting at 11am GMT.

Saleroom notices

Please note that the lower image in the printed catalogue depicts a different machine. Correct images can be viewed on the online listing.

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