LOT 55
Offered from long term ownership 1926 Sunbeam Model 6 3½hp Registration no. RL 3299 Frame no. 09247 Engine no. 278/18624
Sold for £8,625 inc. premium
Lot 55
Offered from long term ownership, 1926 Sunbeam Model 6 3½hp
Offered from long term ownership
1926 Sunbeam Model 6 3½hp
Registration no. RL 3299
Frame no. 09247
Engine no. 278/18624
1926 Sunbeam Model 6 3½hp
Registration no. RL 3299
Frame no. 09247
Engine no. 278/18624
Sunbeam entered motorcycle production in 1912, when John Marston Ltd of Wolverhampton—previously renowned for its high‑quality enamelled goods, bicycles, and more recently automobiles—released its first model: a 350cc (2¾hp) side‑valve single. True to Marston's other products, Sunbeam motorcycles quickly earned a reputation for robust engineering and exemplary finish.
The marque soon established formidable sporting credentials, securing second place in the 1914 Isle of Man Senior TT before claiming outright victory in 1920. Although overhead‑valve engines were introduced during the mid‑1920s, many of Sunbeam's early successes were achieved with side‑valve‑engined machines, most notably the 492cc (3½hp) 'Longstroke'. This remarkable engine made an immediate impact, winning the 1921 French Grand Prix on its debut, ridden by Alec Bennett.
In road‑going form, the Longstroke proved so successful that it remained in production right up until the outbreak of World War II. By the mid‑1920s, the Model 6 Longstroke had adopted drum brakes and, when supplied in lightweight configuration with low handlebars and minimal equipment, became popularly known as the 'Speedman's Machine'.
'RL 3299' has been with the current owner for over 60 years and was the subject of an older restoration which took place between 2015 and 2018. Presented in 'TT' trim (the kickstart parts and toolbox to return to standard trim are included in the sale). Presented in lovely cosmetic condition, and unused since completion of the restoration, we would recommend that all appropriate safety checks and sympathetic recommissioning are undertaken prior to returning this attractively sporting Model 6 to the road.
Offered with an old style V5C together with the aforementioned toolbox and parts.
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.
Key not required
The marque soon established formidable sporting credentials, securing second place in the 1914 Isle of Man Senior TT before claiming outright victory in 1920. Although overhead‑valve engines were introduced during the mid‑1920s, many of Sunbeam's early successes were achieved with side‑valve‑engined machines, most notably the 492cc (3½hp) 'Longstroke'. This remarkable engine made an immediate impact, winning the 1921 French Grand Prix on its debut, ridden by Alec Bennett.
In road‑going form, the Longstroke proved so successful that it remained in production right up until the outbreak of World War II. By the mid‑1920s, the Model 6 Longstroke had adopted drum brakes and, when supplied in lightweight configuration with low handlebars and minimal equipment, became popularly known as the 'Speedman's Machine'.
'RL 3299' has been with the current owner for over 60 years and was the subject of an older restoration which took place between 2015 and 2018. Presented in 'TT' trim (the kickstart parts and toolbox to return to standard trim are included in the sale). Presented in lovely cosmetic condition, and unused since completion of the restoration, we would recommend that all appropriate safety checks and sympathetic recommissioning are undertaken prior to returning this attractively sporting Model 6 to the road.
Offered with an old style V5C together with the aforementioned toolbox and parts.
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.
Key not required
Footnotes
BUYER'S PREMIUM
The Buyer's Premium for this Lot is 15%+VAT on the first £500k of the Hammer Price, and 12%+VAT on the balance 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.
CONDITIONS OF SALE, AUCTION INFORMATION & GUIDE FOR BUYERS
Please see the 'CONDITIONS OF SALE, AUCTION INFORMATION & GUIDE FOR BUYERS' at the top of the main sale page (Motorcycles Online - The Summer Sale) for all pertinent information regarding bidder's obligations, viewing, bidding, payment, post-sale collection & transportation.
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Saleroom notices
Please note the aforementioned toolbox is affixed to the machine.
Additional information
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