Description
This motorcycle is Lot 218 to be auctioned by Bonhams at The Autumn Stafford Sale (The Classic Motorcycle Mechanics Show) on October 12th, please see the Bonhams Motorcycles Website for full details.
Auction Timings:
Lots 201 - 408 are to be sold from 11:00am on Sunday 12th October 2025.
Public Viewing:
Available 11th & 12th October 2025 from 09:00 until 17:00, at The Staffordshire County Showground (The Classic Motorcycle Mechanics Show).
Lot 218
The Bob Howard Collection
1930 Sunbeam 347cc Model 8
Registration no. WC 1432
Frame no. C8316
Engine no. K3279
Sunbeam had begun experimenting with overhead valves on their factory racers in the early 1920s and these duly appeared on production models in 1924. The new 500 roadster was known as the Model 9 while its race bike counterpart, which could top 90mph, was accordingly designated the Model 90. The 350 versions were the Model 8 and Model 80 respectively. The John Greenwood design was advanced for its day, with a specification that included a crankshaft supported by three ball-bearings, dry-sump lubrication, and primary drive enclosed in an cast alloy chaincase. Power was transmitted by single-row chain to a three-speed, 'cross-over drive' gearbox with offside power take off.
This Sunbeam Model 8 was first registered (as 'OG 2533') on 1st April 1930. Unfortunately, the DVLA has declined to reissue the original number and has allocated an age-related registration instead (see Marston Sunbeam Club & Register correspondence on file). In 2012 the Sunbeam was sold by a G Cross of Horncastle to a Jack Williamson of Spilsby, Lincolnshire, from whom Bob Howard purchased it in 2019. Following a period of inactivity, this motorcycle will require recommissioning to a greater or lesser extent and thus is sold strictly as viewed (inspection highly recommended). The machine is offered with a current V5C document; the 2012 and 2019 purchase receipts; factory despatch information; 2024 Marston Register inspection form; DVLA correspondence; and sundry receipts and invoices.
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.
