Description
National Motorcycle Museum | Solihull, West Midlands
Viewing: Tues 24th March from 1pm
Auction: Wed 25th March from 9am
Location: National Motorcycle Museum, Coventry Road, Bickenhill, Solihull B92 0EJ
1950 Sunbeam S8
No Reserve
Registration No: FDN 372
Frame No: 4434
MOT: Exempt
Praised in period for smooth, refined touring manners
Long-term museum display since 1980
Original buff logbook, four recorded owners, V5 present
The 1950 Sunbeam S8 is a distinctive and technically advanced representative of post-war British motorcycle engineering. Designed by Erling Poppe and introduced in 1949, the S8 was conceived as a lighter, sportier companion to the touring-focused S7, although both models shared the same 487cc overhead-cam, longitudinal twin-cylinder engine with shaft drive. This configuration endowed the S8 with notably smooth and refined performance, qualities for which the model became well regarded. In contrast to the S7’s balloon tyres, the S8 adopted conventional tyres, BSA telescopic front forks, and a cast-aluminium silencer, giving it a more purposeful appearance. With a claimed top speed of 85mph, production continued until 1956, although sales were modest due to the model’s relatively high price, reflecting Sunbeam’s traditionally over-engineered approach.
Contemporary road tests praised the Sunbeam S8 for its smoothness, quiet running, and well-mannered touring characteristics, positioning it as a refined fast tourer rather than an outright sporting machine. Today, it remains a distinctive and increasingly appreciated example of British post-war design.
This example presents in similar condition to long-term static display machines and benefits from a well-documented history. The original buff logbook records four previous owners, and the motorcycle is supplied with a modern V5. Acquired by the current keeper in 1980, it has since formed part of a private museum collection and has remained on static display. As such, it will require recommissioning before returning to road use, offering an appealing opportunity for collectors seeking an elegant and historically significant Sunbeam.
** 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).
