Highlights
- Example of first-year production of the Model 9A
- Complete rebuild over more than 18 months by the specialist Roger Banks
- Shown at the Moto Légende Show in Paris shortly after restoration
- In the same ownership since 2012, stored in a controlled temperature and humidity environment
- Supplied with a French registration document and a UK V5C
Why it’s special
The Sunbeam Model 9A dates from the “Sunbeam Marston” period (before BSA acquired the marque in 1943), an era when these motorcycles were admired for their build quality. Even today, the Sunbeam 9A is regarded as one of the very best pre-war machines.
Presented in 1932 as a 600cc development of the famous overhead-valve Model 9, the 9A inherited an impressive racing pedigree, forged through TT, Bol d’Or and Grand Prix wins. World War Two brought production to a halt, but it has continued to generate strong interest among collectors ever since. For good reason.
This example has been fully rebuilt from A to Z over roughly 18 months, with meticulous mechanical work carried out by the specialist Roger Banks. Shortly after completion of the restoration, in 2013, it was displayed at the Moto Légende Show in Paris, where the seller states it was among the stand’s most notable machines.
Acquired in 2012, the motorcycle was then kept within a substantial private collection, stored in a temperature-controlled environment. The seller confirms that careful recommissioning and a running-in period are recommended, given its prolonged lay-up.
To further enhance the bike’s authenticity, a separate-purchased Lucas Altette horn is included in the sale.
It features an oil pressure gauge located in the tank and a complete electrical system, with an ammeter built into the headlamp.
Key information
- Odometer: N/A
- Country of registration: France
- MOT test: Exempt
- Engine: Single-cylinder OHV 600cc, 4-speed manual gearbox
- Documentation: French registration document and UK V5C
Details
- Complete rebuild carried out over approx. 18 months, finalised around 2013
- Mechanical work entrusted to the specialist Roger Banks
- Oil pressure tell-tale installed in the tank
- Electrical installation with ammeter built into the headlamp
- Original Lucas Altette horn included in the sale
- Stored as parts in a temperature-controlled unit within a private collection since restoration
- Presented in concours condition according to the seller
- Registered in France in 2021
- Careful recommissioning and a running-in period are recommended
This sale is subject to Car & Classic’s general terms and conditions. By bidding and/or making an offer, you also accept the following:
✓ The seller is registered as a private seller, meaning that consumer rights arising from European consumer protection legislation do not apply. However, you are still covered by Car & Classic’s general terms and conditions.
✓ We require that non-refundable fees are paid if you are the successful bidder or if your offer is accepted. Please refer to our FAQs and general terms and conditions for the specific charges.
✓ This vehicle is “sold as seen”, on a “take it as it is, where it is” basis and without any warranty. Photos and descriptions are provided for guidance only and it’s customary to carry out a complete inspection of the vehicle before purchase for your own peace of mind.
✓ VAT is included in the buyer’s deposit. VAT may or may not be included in the final offer or submission price, as specified in the advert.
✓ We want the transaction to run smoothly, just like you do, and that’s why vehicles and motorcycles registered in the UK and listed on Car & Classic are subject to a HPI check to confirm they don’t have any basic database indicators for insurance-related damage or theft, and that they are not subject to any financial charge, allowing you to bid with confidence.
✓ We also check whether vehicles are recorded as being written off following a total loss incident at the time the advert is placed on Car & Classic and we provide the relevant category labels for write-off (Cat C/D/S/N) to assist you. However, the presence or absence of a label does not guarantee the vehicle’s status and it’s always helpful to carry out a full vehicle history check before making an offer.
✓ Buyers are responsible for collecting or arranging delivery of the vehicle. Importing vehicles may result in additional customs duties and import taxes. If you wish, we can recommend a third-party shipping company that can help. For more details and to speak to the team, email auctions@carandclassic.com.
