Description
This motorcycle is Lot 343 to be auctioned by Bonhams at The Autumn Stafford Sale (The Classic Motorcycle Mechanics Show) on October 10th – 11th, please see the Bonhams Motorcycles Website for full details.
Auction Timings:
Lots 201 - 407 are to be sold from 11AM local time on Sunday 11th October 2026.
Public Viewing:
Available 10th & 11th October 2026 from 09:00 until 17:00, at The Staffordshire County Showground (The Classic Motorcycle Mechanics Show).
Lot 343
1913 Rudge 499cc Multi
Registration no. SV 5851
Frame no. 669707
Engine no. 07443
In 1912 Rudge set new world speed records at Brooklands, establishing new one-hour and two-hour marks at more than 65 miles and 122 miles respectively. The firm also figured prominently in the popular reliability trials of the day, thereby demonstrating that its products were durable as well as fast. By this time the desirability of incorporating a clutch into the transmission had become all too apparent, as had the need for variable gearing. Many customers specified one or other of the numerous competing proprietary transmissions - NSU, Sturmey-Archer, Phillipson, etc - while Rudge offered the Mabon variable gear. Although preferable to direct drive, the Mabon had its weaknesses, prompting Works Manager John Pugh to come up with something better: the Multi. Controlled by a tank-mounted lever, the Multi worked by varying the diameter of two pulleys, one on the crankshaft, the other on the rear wheel, offering ratios between 3. 5:1 and 7. 0:1 while maintaining drive belt tension. An outstanding success, it would remain in production for the next ten years.
The early history of this desirable Veteran-era Multi is not known prior to 1951 when it was made roadworthy and registered with the Sunbeam Motor Cycle Club's Pioneer Register. The Rudge was subsequently issued with an age-related registration in 1996 just before it was purchased by the vendor's father. The latter had the frame, forks and cycle parts stove enamelled and the nickel plating redone as needed. Since its restoration in 1998 the Rudge has participated in various Anglo-Dutch events, London to Brighton Runs and local runs. The machine was last ridden on the 2015 Banbury Run and was last started in August 2026. Accompanying paperwork includes a Pioneer Certificate, sundry restoration invoices, and old/ current V5C documents.
Prospective bidders must satisfy themselves regarding the motorcycles provenance, condition, age, completeness, and originality prior to bidding. Sold strictly as seen.
£6, 000 - 10, 000
All lots are sold ‘as is/ where is’ and Bidders must satisfy themselves as to the provenance, condition, age, completeness, mileage, engine capacity and originality prior to bidding. Visit the Bonhams Motorcycles website for all pertinent auction information.
