The David Plant Collection, c.1930 Sunbeam 347cc Model 1 Project

Motorcycles Online - The Summer Sale|15 June 2026, 15:19 BST|Online, Milton Keynes

The David Plant Collection, c.1930 Sunbeam 347cc Model 1 Project

Registration no. ADM 587A
Frame no. A4075
Engine no. 254 /S 22732
The first Sunbeam motorcycle - a 350cc side-valve single - left the Wolverhampton premises of John Marston, hitherto a manufacturer of finest quality enamelled goods, bicycles and - latterly - cars, in 1912. Designed by Harry Stevens (later to found AJS) the 2¾hp Sunbeam was equipped with a two-speed countershaft gearbox and fully enclosed all-chain drive, proving an instant success in an era when the norm was hub gears and belt-drive. Like Marston's other products, his motorcycles soon established a reputation for sound construction and exemplary finish. Their racetrack performances did nothing to discourage sales either. Howard Davies (later to found the H.R.D. marque) finished second in the 1914 Senior TT on his and Sunbeam's first visit to the Island, and Tommy De La Hay inherited victory in the 1920 Senior after George Dance, also Sunbeam-mounted, retired while leading.

This incomplete sidevalve-engined Sunbeam dates from around 1930 and is offered for restoration. Our vendor acquired the machine in 1995 but nothing more is known of its history. Accompanying paperwork consists of old/current V5C documents.

Condition and completeness unknown, Prospective purchasers should satisfy themselves with regard to this motorcycle's completeness, history, authenticity, originality and mechanical condition prior to bidding.

Key not required

Footnotes

BUYER'S PREMIUM
The Buyer's Premium for this Lot is 28%+VAT on the first £40k of the Hammer Price, then 27%+VAT up to £800k, then 21%+VAT up to £4.5M and 14.5%+VAT thereafter.

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.

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Additional information

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