The David Plant Collection, 1926 Raleigh 248cc Model 14

Britain's best-known and longest-surviving bicycle maker, Raleigh also manufactured motorcycles from 1899 to 1905 and again from 1919 to 1933. More recently, the Nottingham company offered a range of mopeds plus a scooter in the late 1950s/1960s. During the 1920s Raleigh's line-up expanded to include machines of numerous different capacities, both sidevalve and overhead-valve engined, ranging from a 175cc unitary construction lightweight to a hefty 998cc v-twin for sidecar pulling. A typical example of a lightweight Raleigh of the Vintage era, the Model 14 was manufactured between 1925 and 1927 and was powered by a 248cc single-cylinder sidevalve engine driving via a three-speed Sturmey-Archer gearbox with chain final drive. There was no front brake; presumably it was considered that the machine's relatively modest performance rendered one unnecessary. The Model 14 would have set you back around £40 when new, depending on the ancillary equipment specified.

An older restoration, this Model 14 is presented in generally complete condition requiring a detailed clean and general recommissioning. Note the rear brake is operated by both hand and foot control. The machine is fitted with gearbox number 'BS23411' and a Gough's leather saddle, while a 1907 TT re-enactment sticker (number '19') is affixed to the front. The frame number is partially worn, although the first letter is believed to be 'R'. The machine has been in the current ownership since 1984 and is offered with a supporting history file reflecting its long-term ownership and use. The history file contains a continuation logbook recording the date of first registration as 26th February 1926, with the original registration 'KM 2413'. The current age-related registration dates from 1984.

Last taxed until October 2007, the lightweight Raleigh was ridden by the vendor's late wife in the Isle of Man TT Re-enactment that year. The machine also comes with MoT certificates dated July 1984 and February 2000 respectively; correspondence dating from the current period of ownership; a quantity of photocopied literature; and a Raleigh spare parts, repairs and renovations manual for the Model 16. Offered with old/current V5/V5C documents.

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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