Description
This motorcycle is Lot 377 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 377
Believed 4 miles from new
1965 Francis-Barnett 250cc Cruiser
Registration no. unregistered
Frame no. IHM89 17332
Engine no. 089F 2241
Part of Associated Motor Cycles from 1947, Francis-Barnett concentrated on the production of lightweight two-strokes powered firstly by Villiers engines, though from 1957 AMC's own were fitted to many models. By 1961 the home-grown product - although now manufactured by Villiers - was used exclusively; though that situation soon changed with the introduction for 1962 of the Villiers 2T-powered Cruiser Twin 89, based on the existing single-cylinder Cruiser 80. Tested by Motor Cycling magazine, the Cruiser Twin achieved a 'flat-on-the-tank' best of 71. 9mph and returned 72mpg over the duration of the 500-mile test. New for 1963 was a sports version the Cruiser 91 boasting a restyled fuel tank, lowered handlebars, polished mudguards, and a fly screen; all very Italian. The Cruiser twins adopted the Villiers 4T engine for 1964, and were last produced in October 1966 when manufacture of all Francis-Barnett motorcycles ceased.
One of the more stylish British lightweights of its era, this Francis-Barnett Cruiser is offered with an invoice relating to its purchase from the NVT liquidation sale in 1973 (Lot 23). Reputedly, it had been found in the gents' toilets during the sale! Peterborough-based motorcycle dealer Harry Balderston purchased the machine and took it back to his shop for display. It is believed to have covered a mere four miles from new! The machine has not been run since acquisition and will need recommissioning before taking to the road. A unique opportunity to own a 'time warp' Franny B with 'delivery' mileage only. Offered with the aforementioned invoice.
£2, 000 - 3, 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.
