1926 James 550cc Model 19 Motorcycle Combination

Like so many famous and not so famous motorcycle firms, that founded by Harry James in 1880 started out as a bicycle manufacturer. Based initially at Sparkbrook and then Greet in Birmingham, the James Cycle Company built its first motorcycle, a Minerva-powered machine, in 1902. The first model to be powered by James's own engine followed in 1908; this was the 'safety' James, a radical design featuring wheels carried on stub axles, scooter-fashion. More orthodox designs followed, with two-stroke, sidevalve, overhead-valve, single-cylinder and twin-cylinder models featuring in the range before the end of the 1920s. The company was proud of the fact that, unlike the majority of the competition, its motorcycles were manufactured in their entirety in the James works, with only components such as the Bosch magneto, Mills carburettor, tyres and lamps being bought in from other manufacturers.

For 1914, James offered a revised single-cylinder model in three-speed and two-speed versions, both of which featured fully enclosed, all chain drive. The firm's first v-twin, the 500cc (3½hp) 'No.7', arrived that same year. Priced at 60 guineas, James's top-of-the-range offerings were quality products that incorporated some interesting ideas, one of the more practical being the 'spring drive' shock absorber built into the rear wheel hub. "We confidently claim that this refinement affords all the sweetness of 'belt drive' with none of the attendant foibles," declared its maker. After WWI, James continued to offer a range that consisted of both singles and twins.

Presented in charming 'barn find' condition, this Vintage-era James combination is offered from a deceased's estate following a house clearance. The machine's history is entirely unknown and no supporting documentation is available. The registration number was originally issued in Swindon, Wiltshire and the James is listed in the VMCC Machine Register. The VRN appears on the HPI/DVLA databases.

According to the accompanying HPI report, the motorcycle has an engine capacity of 599cc, a figure more commonly associated with James's V-twin models. However, the engine prefix is believed to correspond with the 550cc Model 19 single. The James is recorded on the HPI report as first registered on 22nd July 1927. The report also shows this date as the commencement of the current keeper's ownership, with no previous keepers listed, although this cannot be not warranted. Fitted equipment includes a horn, cycle-type lighting, front and rear lamps, and a sidecar lamp.

The machine is offered without documents; accordingly, prospective purchasers must satisfy themselves with regard to the validity of the VRN and will be responsible for applying to the DVLA for a replacement V5C using a V62 form.

It should be noted that the engine does not turn over. 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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