1938 Levis D5
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HIGHLIGHTS
- A much rarer alternative to BSAs and Triumphs
- Fully restored in 2019 to near-concours condition
- Fewer than 200 miles covered since restoration
THE APPEAL
The pre-war period witnessed the rise of many great motorcycling marques, a handful of which enjoyed long and illustrious lives. Many others, sadly, were unbalanced by the Depression, and ultimately consigned to the history books when war brought the world to its knees in 1939. Such was the unfortunate fate of Levis of Birmingham, which until then was revered for its handsome, brisk and well-made motorcycles.
The first Levis motorcycles were made by Butterfield Bros. in 1911, and over time the brand became known as one of Britain’s leading manufacturers of two-stroke bikes.
From 1928, the range expanded to include four-stroke models in various sizes, of which the 500cc overhead-valve twin exhaust ports D5 was a fine example. The four-strokes enjoyed plenty of competitive success of their own, especially in off-road trials and scrambles.
Lacking the present-day fame of BSA, Triumph, et al., Levis ownership in today’s world is the preserve of a discerning enthusiast. The bikes are just as good, if not better, than many of their better-known rivals, and will be sure to generate particular interest from curious admirers.
Beautifully restored to close-to-concours condition, this Levis would be a highlight in any collection of pre-war motorcycles. A potential trophy-winner, it’s ideal for Sunbeam Motorcycle Club rallies and rides with other enthusiasts.
THE HISTORY AND PAPERWORK
- Originally supplied on 18th November 1938 to W. P. Tippeth of Tolworth, Surrey
- Discovered as a barn-find in 2011 and bought by an enthusiastic motorcycle collector
- Subjected to a comprehensive restoration completed in 2019, when it was registered with the DVLA
- Since then, the Levis has been dry-stored and has only covered 170 miles
- Presently kept in south-western France
- Paperwork includes the British V5C and a collection of photographs and invoices from the restoration
THE CONDITION
- Near-concours condition following restoration
- Professionally repainted in the distinctive Levis red and silver
- All brightwork replated
This Levis looks every bit as good as one would expect a freshly-restored bike to be. Having been stripped back to the frame for a full professional repaint (including the frame) its appearance is very much ‘like new’ and we cannot disagree when the vendor, who has owned multiple concours-winning bikes before, calls the Levis “virtually concours”. All the chromework was replated, so we don’t think any stone has been left unturned.
The leather of the seat is obviously new, and the decals on the tank are most attractively detailed, proclaiming the marque’s short but informative motto Levis et celer (‘Light and fast’). The one detail you really must take in, though, are the beautiful feathered knee pads – one does not find such attention to detail and commitment to aesthetics in many motorcycles today.
THE MECHANICS
- Engine and gearbox stripped and rebuild
- Electrics rewired
- Starts very willingly
This Levis was in good hands for its restoration as the work was completed by the vendor’s brother and nephew, a motorcycle mechanic and MoT tester. Care has obviously been taken to ensure that it is fully roadworthy, and we’re sure it will be a reliable, dependable bike for many miles to come.
The restoration involved completely stripping and rebuilding the engine and gearbox, so that the Levis now starts and runs like a dream. The vendor says, “It has a decompression lever, so it starts easily with lots of compression. It charges on tickover and is very easy to ride. It has an abundance of torque and can be ridden with confidence.”
The brakes, of course, received all the necessary attention and the electrics have been fully rewired. The lights and horn are all in full working order.
THE SUMMARY
The 1930s was a fine time for motorcycling, in which powerful, well-engineered British singles had the length and breadth of the country to themselves and Levis is one of the greatest unsung heroes of that age.
This D5 is a really splendid machine from a marque which was in its prime, doing well in both circuit-racing and off-road competitions.
Beautifully restored to a very high standard by experienced restorers, this Levis would look great in the collection of any pre-war motorcycle enthusiast.
Notice to bidders
This item is sold on an ‘As is Where is’ basis. The condition of this item is the opinion of the seller and may differ from your own opinion. Photos and listing descriptions are for guidance purposes only*.** Car & Classic do not warrant listing accuracy. Full inspection is recommended. Viewings are at the seller’s discretion. Buyer is responsible for delivery and collection of any item purchased.*
A non-refundable buyer’s deposit is payable on this item, refer to FAQs and T&Cs for the applicable percentage.
Buyer is responsible for delivery and collection of any item purchased. Car & Classic may refer a shipping company that also deals with import/export paperwork. Prices start at €150+VAT within the same country or €400+VAT for moves across borders.
For more details, email [email protected]
Vehicle specification
- Year 1938
- Make Levis
- Model D5 with Watsonian sidecar
- Colour SIlver
- Odometer 167 Miles
- Engine size 500
Auction Details
- Seller Type Private
- Town Cherval
- Country France
42
bids
- Fr•••• €11,000 14/04/23
- Fr•••• €10,750 14/04/23
- ru•••• €10,500 14/04/23
- Fr•••• €10,250 14/04/23
- ru•••• €9,900 14/04/23
- Fr•••• €9,700 14/04/23
- ru•••• €9,500 14/04/23
- Fr•••• €9,300 14/04/23
- ru•••• €9,100 14/04/23
- Fr•••• €8,900 14/04/23
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