Descripción
National Motorcycle Museum | Solihull, West Midlands
Viewing: Tuesday 8th July from 1pm
Auction: Wednesday 9th July from 9am
Location: National Motorcycle Museum, Coventry Road, Bickenhill, Solihull B92 0EJ
c. 1916 Douglas Model B
No Reserve
Registration No: AF 3429
Frame No: 3554
MOT: Exempt
A very rare survivor from wartime production
An appealing 'oily-rag' project
In the present ownership for more than 20 years
The Douglas brothers, who set up shop in 1906, acquired the design of a flat twin-cylinder engine from J. Barter's defunct Light Motor Company enterprise, Barter becoming a Douglas employee. Having two cylinders horizontally opposed at 180 degrees was the same elegant solution to twin-cylinder engine design as adopted by over fifty other motorcycle manufacturers, although Douglas chose a longitudinal layout for their early twins. To meet the demands for greater power, Douglas introduced the 3½hp Model A for 1914, with a 494cc side-valve engine and two-speed gearbox. The Model B shown here, with kick start, cone clutch and footboards, cost £4 more at £62. The production of civilian machines continued alongside machines for the armed forces until 1916, after which all output was consumed by the British Army.
This c. 1916 Model B has been with the vendor, an enthusiastic motorcycle collector, for over 20 years and in dry storage. It is a rare survivor, as the big, torquey Model B was only produced for a short time. Purchased in its current condition, the vendor intended to subject it to a full restoration, although that never happened. Mostly complete, with just a few small items missing, this would make for a great project for its new owner. The engine does turn over. The sale includes a V5C.
** Bidding will take place live at the venue, online via our H&H website, by telephone and commission - T&Cs apply**
Parking and entry into the auction is free for auction attendees with a catalogue, available at the door.
Catalogues can be purchased for £20 (admits 2 people).
