Beschreibung
Registration: KLJ 710
Odometer reading: 1, 184
Frame no: S82945
Engine no: S84376
Number of former keepers: 2
Location: Dorset
HIGHLIGHTS
Matching numbers motorcycle
One owner since 1960
Amazing original condition.
Perfectly matched sidecar.
The touring Sunbeam S7 was launched in 1946 and was soon joined by the S8 which sold alongside the S7 as a lighter, sportier version. Designed by Erling Poppe, both bikes were marketed as flagship models by BSA who owned Sunbeam. 8, 530.. S8’s were built and an appreciation of their advanced technical design is undoubtedly even more appealing now.
This stunning S8 was first registered in the UK on the 8th August by Huxhams Ltd in Parkstone Dorset. The first owner lived in the Bournemouth area and kept the Sunbeam for ten years until the current owner purchased it along with the VP sidecar in 1960
Clearly, this vintage machine and sidecar have been lovingly cherished by the owner having enjoyed the combo for 61 years! A new speedo was fitted at around 28, 000 mls but was not recorded. Looking at online MOT records this may have been changed around 2005
The owner hasn’t kept a comprehensive history file (maybe because he carried out al the maintenance himself) but nevertheless the original buff logbook is present and records some of the ownership history. Happily it appears to bear its original matching numbers frame, engine and gearbox along with it’s original (hand painted) registration number. The original manual also comes with the Sunbeam.
The V5 is present in the owners name and the last MOT certificate (showing no advisories) was issued July 2015 with 1, 145 recorded miles (now showing 1, 184 mls) online records also indicate that a mere 50-200 miles were covered each year since 2006
The vendor is selling the combination on behalf of the now elderly owner who sadly can no longer ride it.
The all aluminium inline OHC engine, car-like 4 speed gearbox and ‘Cardan’ shaft drive was a highly sophisticated attempt at breaking away from the traditional air-cooled chain-driven platform. Being a 487 cc twin, producing around 24 hip with a reported top speed of 85 mph it was no slouch, but is perhaps considered a little more sedate now compared to some of it’s contemporaries.
Features include a compression ratio of 6. 5:1 a wet sump, single Amal carburettor, telescopic front forks & rear plungers, coil & distributor (instead of Magneto), cable drum brakes & chrome Dunlop wheels. The owner has recently installed a new timing chain & tensioner, two new fuel taps, new dipstick & filter, new front wheel bearings, new condenser/ points and 50 grade engine oil.
The condition: This glorious Sunbeam motorcycle & VP sidecar are both in a stunning time-warp condition. The black paintwork is in remarkable condition with no significant scratches or surface rust. The twin cradle frame and metal mudguards are in good health and the chrome is in excellent condition. The engine, gearbox and ancillaries are also very clean. Looking at the electrics, the headlamp mounted Smiths speedo , ammeter and lights function correctly and the owner installed a new wiring loom along with thief proof security switch under the battery box.
The correct Sunbeam badges are in place on the fuel tank along with the brass ‘Huxhams’ dealer plate on the rear bumper. Not forgetting the hand- painted number plates. The headlight style indicates that this S8 is indeed a 1950 model and only the S8 was fitted with a cast silencer.
The rare period VP Viper Sports Sidecar has been attached to this S8 all it’s life. Made by the Variable Pitch Propeller Company of Cheltenham (from 1947), the body panels are made from stressed aluminium and incorporates a boot behind the seat. In addition to a screen, it features an opening side door and rising top to aid entry along with wet weather gear comprising a soft top and tonneau style cover. The red leather seat looks original, the side trims and carpet less so. This original and endearing sidecar even comes with it’s own picnic basket and is the perfect match for the Sunbeam.
This 71 year old S8 and VP looks great fun to ride and will undoubtedly be a rare sight on today’s road. Representing a slice of Great British engineering history and technical innovation. This low mileage lovingly cared for combo will not disappoint and will represent a terrific investment.
Possible delivery.
