Description
This motorcycle is to be auctioned by Bonhams at the Timed-Online December Sale, with public viewing available Wednesday 6 December, from Bonhams Motorcycles in Milton Keynes. The timed online auction runs between December 1st through December 11th, with lots closing from midday December 11th.
Lot 108
1934 BSA 9hp TW-34 Sports
Registration no. DK 9440
Chassis no. F6894D
Engine no. unable to locate
? Rare front-wheel-drive BSA sports car
? Purchased dismantled in 2009 and restored
? New ash body frame
A motor manufacturer from 1907, the Birmingham Small Arms Company acquired Daimler in 1910, soon abandoning its own range in favour of a Daimler design powered by the Knight sleeve-valve engine. When BSA resumed post-hostilities car production in 1921 it was with a quite different type of vehicle: a 10hp light car powered by a 1, 080cc, overhead-valve v-twin engine made by Hotchkiss. The model sold well, only disappearing in 1925 when rivals Morris bought Hotchkiss, though BSA later acquired rights to the engine for use in its front-wheel-drive Scout three-wheeler. As built in modified, long-stroke form by BSA, the engine displaced 1, 021cc. Family and Sports models were on offer.
In 1933 a new version of the three-wheeler appeared powered by a 9hp, four-cylinder, sidevalve engine of 1, 075cc, which was also used in the four-wheeled, though still front-drive, 'T9' model that had been introduced in 1932. Restyled but retaining essentially the same engine and running gear, the Scout two-seater sports car was introduced in 1935 and built up to 1936 when a new 10hp, 1, 203cc, four-cylinder, four-wheeled Scout was announced. Described by Autocar magazine as 'undoubtedly one of the best-looking small cars in existence,' the Scout progressed through various series but did not re-emerge after WW2, BSA having decided to concentrate on producing motorcycles only.
This rare BSA three-wheeler was purchased in a dismantled state by the current owner in 2009. The chassis is original, as are the wings, while the new ash body frame was made locally. Since its restoration's completion the BSA has been used on numerous local runs and been dry stored when not in use and was last ran in November 2023. Accompanying documentation consists of a V5C Registration Certificate and a copy of the Book of the BSA Scout & Three Wheeler 1929-1939. It is also offered with a quantity of spares including a spare wheel, crankcase and other assorted spares.
£8, 000-12, 000
All lots are sold 'as is/ where is' and Bidders must satisfy themselves as to the provenance, condition, age, completeness and originality prior to bidding.
Visit Bonhams Motorcycles Webpage for all pertinent auction information.
