Highlights
- Freshly rebuilt 197cc Villiers 2-stroke engine
- Entirely original and delightfully patinated paintwork
- Quite a rare machine with an interesting company backstory
The Appeal
You’d be forgiven for never having heard of Ambassador Motorcycles as few bikes were ever produced, but the story behind the company is a fascinating one.
It was founded by Kaye Ernest Donsky – better known as Kaye Don – who enjoyed great success at Brooklands, Grand Prix and powerboat racing during the ‘20s and ‘30s.
It was founded by Kaye Ernest Donsky – better known as Kaye Don – who enjoyed great success at Brooklands, Grand Prix and powerboat racing during the ‘20s and ‘30s.
Here we have the great man’s attempt at building motorbikes and, looking at the way this Ambassador was made, it’s clear that Don could turn his mind to anything.
It is estimated that only 13 examples of the Ambassador Supreme survive today, although the good news is they are powered by the same 197cc Villiers found in numerous small capacity bikes of the time.
If you fancy a classic commuter bike but want something less ubiquitous than a BSA or Francis-Barnet, then this is not an opportunity to be missed.
It is estimated that only 13 examples of the Ambassador Supreme survive today, although the good news is they are powered by the same 197cc Villiers found in numerous small capacity bikes of the time.
If you fancy a classic commuter bike but want something less ubiquitous than a BSA or Francis-Barnet, then this is not an opportunity to be missed.
The History and Paperwork
- V5C present
- Maintenance manual
- Original logbook
- Certificate of authenticity from the British Two Stroke Club
- The engine has been restored recently and run very little since
- Desirable short registration number
The Condition
- Beautiful patination
- The vendor informs us that the paintwork is entirely original
- There is some surface rust in many places but little that concerns us
- The only significant corrosion visible is on the battery strap which has rusted through
- Complete with patinated sprung single seat and pillion cushion which has some splits
- The chrome / nickel finish on the handlebars has mostly worn away
- Complete with leg guards - which are often lost or damaged on bikes of this vintage
- The tank has a great worn look to it, appears free from dents and is complete with knee grips
- Charming hand painted registration numbers
- The vendor informs us that the tyres have lots of tread
- The lug for the centre stand is apparently missing but could be braised back on
- Now fitted with a side stand as well
The Mechanics
- 197cc Villiers two-stroke engine
- Very common engine making it easy to attain parts and expertise
- Rebored, new piston, bearings and seals replaced
- The coil, battery and points have also been replaced
- It has been run following the full rebuild and is reportedly quite tight
- The vendor has not ridden the bike
Summary
This is a fabulously original and mechanically healthy specimen of the unusual Ambassador Supreme.
We think this offers the perfect compromise, as a rare bike with a common engine it will impress wherever it goes without the worry of unobtainable parts.
Motorcycles this characterful do not come up for sale that often and the fact that this is such a rare machine is a further reason that you should consider bidding.
Motorcycles this characterful do not come up for sale that often and the fact that this is such a rare machine is a further reason that you should consider bidding.
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.
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