Descripción
This motorcycle is Lot 81 to be auctioned by Bonhams at the Timed-Online June Sale, please see the Bonhams website for full details. The timed online auction runs between June 6th through June 16th, with lots closing from midday June 16th 2025.
Public Viewing:
Available 11th & 12th June 2025 from 09:00 until 17:00, by appointment only at Bonhams Milton Keynes.
Lot 81
1963 James 199cc Captain L20
Registration no. 878 VBB
Frame no. CL20 - 182
Engine no. V20T 7915 (see text)
James had begun concentrating on the manufacture of two-stroke lightweights in the 1930s and continued the policy after WWII. In 1951 the company became part of the Associated Motor Cycles group, joining Francis-Barnett, and from then on the two marque's model ranges became ever more similar until the transfer of Francis-Barnett production to the James factory in 1962 ushered in an era of unashamed 'badge engineering'. Post-war James models were powered by Villiers two-stroke engines at first, though from 1957 many used AMC's own engine, the Captain changing to AMC power in 1960.
Formerly registered as a Francis-Barnett, an error since corrected by the DVLA, this James Captain L20 has the 199cc AMC power unit. Since its acquisition from an online auction in November 2022 the James has been stripped and repainted by the vendor to the specification that he always wanted. Notable features include a new Armour exhaust pipe and silencer; new handlebars and controls; flashing indicators; and a new (modified) wiring loom and switches. According to the vendor, the engine was not stripped but has been running, and there is a slight oil leak from the gearbox at high level. The vendor further advises us that the tool boxes and chain guard have not been fitted using original mounts, and that the carburettor now has a choke. Used sparingly and last run in the summer of 2024, the Captain is only offered for sale because the vendor is thinning out his collection.
The machine is offered with a current V5C Registration Certificate; purchase paperwork (2022); James Instruction Book; Francis-Barnett OC dating paperwork (2022); a detached registration plate; and a tax disc expiring in October 1963. No key present. It should be noted that the '7' to the engine number appears double stamped.
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 the Bonhams Motorcycles website for all pertinent auction information.
