The David Plant Collection, 1932 Sunbeam 500cc Model 90

Gearbox no. BW1754F

Following the identification of the complete and correct frame number by the Marston Club Registrar, this machine is now understood to be a 1932 Sunbeam Model 90, bringing it into accordance with the engine specification and clarifying its overall identity.

The machine's history file contains correspondence dating from 1987, including a letter from Ken Hallworth to the then owner, Mr Abraham, noting that the Sunbeam appeared to be something of an assembly of parts. A further letter from the Marston Sunbeam Register provides a detailed breakdown of the machine's specification. The engine, carburettor and gearbox are described as 1932 Model 90, with the gearbox possibly being a Model 95 racing type featuring heel-and-toe change and no kickstart. The oil tank is described as a 1930 Model 90 (non-TT pattern), while the fuel tank is identified as a 1934-35 Model 95 type of enlarged capacity, as used to reduce pit stops.

Other components are described as follows: front brake 1930 Sunbeam; front mudguards and stays Model 90 or 95; and rear mudguard likely Model 9. The correspondence also notes that many machines were progressively modified from Model 90 to Model 95 specification during the early 1930s, both by private owners and by the works, where such machines were used as practice and 'hack' machines for Manx riders before being sold on. Riders including Frank Williams, Ron Hooper and Sid Cooper are noted as having used machines of this type.

At the time the aforementioned correspondence was written, the frame was believed to be a 1930 Model 90, recorded as 'E7430' (which is also recorded on the DVLA database. This will need to be corrected by the next owner with the DVLA); however, this is now understood to have resulted from a transcription error, and the comments should be viewed in that context. A further letter from Sunbeam authority Robert Cordon Champ states that the frame, forks and wheels are of 1930-pattern Model 90 type, while the engine and gearbox are 1932-pattern Model 90. The oil tank is identified as Model 9/90, the toolbox as non-original, and the mudguards and saddle as broadly correct 1930 pattern. The TT90 marking on the carburettor is noted as appropriate for a Model 90. In his opinion, the machine represents a fast road special constructed circa 1933.

A note displayed with the machine describes it as a '1932 Sunbeam Model 90' and records that it was discovered by the vendor over 50 years ago when a long-established Northampton motorcycle dealer's premises were being demolished. The machine had reportedly been hidden behind a false wall and heavily coated in Castrol R, which had solidified and required extensive cleaning. There are two photographs on file showing the machine as discovered, heavily caked in oil.

The Sunbeam was previously registered 'JJ 7747', and a large quantity of DVLC correspondence dating from 1979 is on file relating to attempts to reclaim the registration. It is noted that the frame number was incorrectly recorded as 'E7430' rather than the stamped 'E13074', and that the registration was subsequently transferred to another vehicle and effectively lost; despite attempts to contest the decision, the registration was not reinstated.

The history file also includes an invoice for an engine rebuild carried out by Chris Odling. Offered with a V5C Registration Certificate.

Following a period of inactivity, this motorcycle will require recommissioning and/or restoration to a greater or lesser extent before returning to the road and thus is sold strictly as viewed. Prospective purchasers should satisfy themselves with regard to this motorcycle's completeness, history, authenticity, originality and mechanical condition prior to bidding.
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