1948 Sunbeam S7
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HIGHLIGHTS
• Fantastic patina
• Matching frame, engine and gearbox numbers
• Very rare and desirable today
• Only 10,529 recorded miles
• Runs well
THE APPEAL
When launched in 1946, the S7 was the most technically advanced post-war motorcycle with it’s all-aluminium, “unit-construction”, single overhead camshaft, horizontally split engine and shaft drive. Designed by Erling Poppe and built in Redditch, the S7 was considered a luxurious high performance mode of transport for the discerning customer.
Although not sufficiently developed and refined by BSA-Sunbeam, over time, enthusiastic owners have proven that these bikes can be extremely reliable if maintained correctly.
According to a letter from the Registrar of The Vintage Motor Cycle Club Ltd in 1989, just 9 other 1948 S7 motorcycles of this specification are known to exist of which just three are “precisely of this type”.
THE HISTORY AND PAPERWORK
• Ridden until 1953 and then stored for 36 years
• Re-commissioned in 2013
• V5 and new parts invoices present
KKN 862 was first registered by Kent County Council on the 1st June 1948 for the motorcycle ‘agent’ G.E. Tunbridge (see photo).
The first owner rode it until 1953 and it was then stored for 36 years until the second owner purchased it in 1989. By this time, the original registration documents had been lost and new computer records did not list KKN 862. The new owner enlisted the help of The Vintage Motor Cycle Club Ltd and Stewart Engineering in order to successfully convince the DVLC to re-instate the registration plate in 1990.
It appears that the second owner only displayed his Sunbeam at shows but never actually rode it.
The current owner, and Sunbeam enthusiast, then bought it in 2013 and re-commissioned it. He has subsequently ridden a mere 1,000 or so miles since.
The V5 is present along with re-registration letters and invoices for parts purchased from Stewart Engineering and Burlen Fuel Systems Ltd. We can’t find any MOT history but the exempt tax is valid until the 1st May 2023.
THE CONDITION
• Unrestored and original
• Fantastic patina
• Comes with original tool kit
Cosmetically, this Sunbeam S7, looks fantastic, and the unrestored and original condition suits this post-war machine down to the ground . In this instance, we unapologetically assign the “P” word - so yes, the “patina” is indeed wonderful.
The black twin-cradle frame, tank, mudguards, wheels and ancillaries are painted well with just the expected age-related wear and tear. The engine and gearbox, etc. are fine but would no doubt clean up better, if you wish. All the rubber fittings appear fine too.
Looking at the electrics, the headlight mounted Smiths speedo, ammeter and lights are said to function correctly and the original wiring loom and ignition system are in good health.
The number plates are still hand painted, and incredibly, the original ‘G.E. Tunbridge’ dealer sticker is still present on the rear light mount and the last, (1953) tax disc is displayed and cost a mere £3,15 shillings!.
There is a rack in situ and the owner has made two useful and befitting panniers. The S7 also comes with it’s original tool kit, tyre pump and fitting brackets, and another saddle.
THE MECHANICS
• Low mileage original engine
• Sounds great
• Relatively new service items
The all aluminium inline over-head cam’ engine, car-like 4-speed gearbox and ‘Cardan’ shaft drive was a highly sophisticated attempt at breaking away from a traditional chain-driven platform.
Being a 487cc twin and producing around 24hp with a reported top speed of 85mph, it was no slouch. Features include a compression ratio of 6.5:1, a wet sump, single Amal carburettor, telescopic front forks and rear plungers and cable operated drum brakes.
As mentioned, the current owner re-commissioned this fantastic bike in 2013 with new plugs, points, condenser, a new battery, and he also cleaned out the fuel tank. The Avon tyres are quite a few years old, but visually look fine.
In 2018 the owner also refurbished the Amal carburettor, replaced the throttle and speedo cables and all the engine, gearbox and final drive oil seals. Many of the parts have been purchased from well known Sunbeam specialists, Stewart Engineering (see invoices).
This S7 easily kick-starts into life and ticks over nicely in a sedate but confident manner. The owner assures us that it runs well, and being low-slung, feels safe and secure on the road.
SUMMARY
This rare Sunbeam S7 represents a rare slice of Great British engineering history and technical innovation and is probably more appealing now than ever before.
Surely a contender for any BSA/Sunbeam enthusiast, we think this bike looks the biz’ with It’s low-slung, purposeful and yet relaxed styling, and mechanically, is ready to ride.
Notice to bidders
Although every care is taken to ensure this listing is as factual and transparent as possible, all details within the listing are subject to the information provided to us by the seller. Car & Classic does not take responsibility for any information missing from the listing. Please ensure you are satisfied with the vehicle description and all information provided before placing a bid.
As is normal for most auctions, this vehicle is sold as seen, and therefore the Sale of Goods Act 1979 does not apply. All bids are legally binding once placed. Any winning bidder who withdraws from a sale, is subject to our bidders fee charge. Please see our FAQs and T&C's for further information. Viewings of vehicles are encouraged, but entirely at the seller's discretion.
Vehicle specification
- Year 1948
- Make Sunbeam
- Model S7
- Colour
- Odometer 0
- Engine size
Auction Details
- Seller Type Private
- Location Hampshire
- Country United Kingdom
10
bids
from 6
bidders
- gu•••• £12,000 03/06/22
- gu•••• £10,000 03/06/22
- PP•••• £9,000 02/06/22
- ka•••• £8,800 31/05/22
- ka•••• £7,700 30/05/22
- ni•••• £6,600 30/05/22
- ka•••• £6,500 30/05/22
- ka•••• £5,500 30/05/22
- al•••• £600 30/05/22
- tw•••• £500 27/05/22
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