Description
This motorcycle is Lot 336 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 336
1928 Royal Enfield 976cc Model 180
Registration no. VB 1294
Frame no. 5736
Engine no. E5969E5969
A big V twin had been in Royal Enfield's model range from before the First World War with engines being supplied by JAP and Vickers, but for the 1925 model year they installed their own larger 976cc power unit along with a Sturmey Archer three speed gearbox. They continued to manufacture a suitably updated equivalent model until 1940. This machine was sold in a dismantled state at auction around 2001, and rebuilt by its new owner, who very sensibly retained its wonderfully patinated cosmetic condition. It then changed hands once before the vendor bought it from Andy Tiernan in January 2021. He tells us that magneto was in need of an overhaul, and this was done early in his ownership as per the accompanying invoice. The bike has been very reliable, but it became prone to jumping out of top gear, which resulted in a gearbox rebuild by Stotfold Engineering, again the invoice is supplied. In the current ownership it has completed three Dorset Giant Runs and four Banbury Runs, winning the Ivor Mutton Founder's Award there in 2023. The big Enfield performed admirably once again on this year's Banbury, and a brief video of it approaching the finishing line can be viewed on our Website.
It is accompanied by a V5C, photocopies of a parts list and manual, and a few spares. Prospective bidders must satisfy themselves regarding the motorcycle's provenance, condition, age, completeness, and originality prior to bidding. Sold strictly as seen.
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.
