Photos provided by the vendor
highlights
- Subject of a recent mechanical recommissioning
- Only 4 owners throughout its near 100-year life
- Previous older restoration, now beautifully patinated and in a very usable condition
- A wonderful piece of living history!
The Appeal
During the early part of the 20th century, in addition to producing the bicycles that they’re so well-known for today, the Raleigh company were also leading producers of quality forms of motorised transportation. Amongst the various motorcycles and tricycles available at the time was this, the Model 14 Motorcycle.
This wonderfully original example dates from 1925 and is therefore an earlier example of its type, enjoying a total production run from 1925 to 1927.
Purchased by the vendor last year, this charming motorcycle has recently undergone a mechanical recommissioning and is now ready to hit the country lanes for sunny jaunts once more. Prior to its current ownership, this motorcycle has only ever had 3 owners in its near 100-year life.
In recent years the motorcycle was a museum display piece, but, in the hands of the current owner, a museum piece it is no longer!
Indeed, this bike really is a piece of living history and any future custodian, should they find themselves out in the quietness of the countryside, could quite easily be transported back to a far simpler time, away from the hustle and bustle of the 21st century.
The History and Paperwork
- V5 present confirming 3 former keepers and first registered September 1925
- Acquired by current owner in 2022 and subjected to a thorough mechanical recommissioning, returning the bike to fine running condition
- Invoice detailing recent recommissioning work present
- Previously displayed at the Atwell-Wilson Motor Museum by its previous owner, with museum display sheet present
- Historic duplicate logbook with a date stamp of 1970 present
The Condition
- Lovely original and complete condition
- Appears to have been the subject of an older restoration, now giving the motorcycle a wonderfully patinated appearance
- Black paintwork set off beautifully by the original mechanical componentry, which has clearly been well maintained over the years
- Tyres noted to have excellent tread depth
- Very attractive and inviting ‘Nonpareil’ leather saddle by Gough & Co. Ltd.
- Stored by the current owner in a humidity-controlled garage along with other vintage machinery
Although clearly benefiting from some restoration work at some point in its long and distinguished past, this motorcycle still really impresses from first glance with its charming originality and completeness.
The brightwork of the handlebars and associated mechanical componentry really complement the period black paintwork, further set off by the hand-painted coachlines and branding along the side and top of the tank.
There is some minor visible paint flaking on the left side of the tank which any future owner could choose to address or, equally, simply accept as part of the motorcycle’s fine character.
The Mechanics
- Reported to be running well by the vendor who has enjoyed using the motorcycle on short local trips
- Recent documented recommissioning work included a magneto rebuild by known specialist D. H. Day
- Recommissioning work also included fuel and oil tank flushes, various copper washer replacement, fuel tap recorking and, carburettor strip and rebuild
- Reported by the vendor to have no mechanical faults or areas requiring attention
It is reported by the vendor that the motorcycle is in good running condition, and its photographic appearance would certainly support that being the case. Having successfully overseen the transformation of this bike from a museum piece to functional transportation, this bike is ready to go and motor its merry way through the next 100 years!
Summary
A charmingly original vintage motorcycle in fine running condition which is ready and able to provide its next custodian with many years of happy motoring.
Notice to bidders
This item is sold on an ‘As is Where is’ basis. The condition of this item is the opinion of the seller and may differ from your own opinion. Photos and listing descriptions are for guidance purposes only*.** Car & Classic do not warrant listing accuracy. Full inspection is recommended. Viewings are at the seller’s discretion. Buyer is responsible for delivery and collection of any item purchased.*
UK-registered cars and motorbikes on Car & Classic are run through an online HPI check. On the HPI report, this vehicle shows no insurance database markers for damage or theft. It is currently not covered by a finance agreement.
UK-registered cars and motorbikes on Car & Classic are run through an online HPI check. On the HPI report, this vehicle shows no insurance database markers for damage or theft. It is currently not covered by a finance agreement.
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