Highlights

Formerly part of the collection of a passionate Greeves enthusiast
Evidently the past recipient of a high-quality restoration
MoTed in 2019 with no advisories

The Appeal

People went scrambling with Triumphs and Ariels and they went scrambling with BSA Bantams, but what name is more inextricably linked with scrambling than Greeves, the company which existed primarily to cater for that strange breed of motorcyclist who likes nothing more than getting covered in mud in a boggy field, and trying to do so faster than everyone else.

Scrambling – a type of circuit-racing on dirt tracks – was at its most popular during the 1950s and ’60s, and Greeves started building dedicated scrambling bikes from its Chelmsford factory as early as 1953. The Hawkstone model, named after Shropshire’s famous Hawkstone Park scrambling circuit where Greeves had won many races, was introduced in 1958 with the 197cc Villiers 9E engine, to be joined later by the 246cc 31A engine. It was visually similar to the Scottish trials model, but may be distinguished by its distinctive ‘paddle’ brake drums.

This is a particularly fine example of a Hawkstone, having evidently been restored to a high standard at some point in the past, and was owned at one time by a passionate Greeves collector. It would be just the thing if you wanted to do some historic scrambling (e.g. with the Pre-’65 Moto-Cross Club) but the great thing about this one is it’s also registered for road use, so you could go out for a morning’s green-laning, stop for a pub lunch, and then return home. Does life get any better than that?

The History and Paperwork

The earliest history pertaining to this bike is that it was owned by an enthusiastic Greeves collector in Nottingham
The vendor, an enthusiast with a large and varied motorcycle collection, bought it in 2019, since when it has been on static display
It is sold with no paperwork besides the current V5

The Condition

Superb condition all-round
Clearly the work of a meticulous and careful restorer
Appears to be very original and correct

To the best of our knowledge, every component on this bike is original and correct, which is most unusual for any bikes involved in off-road activities, since they do tend to get rather beaten about and repaired in, shall we say, resourceful ways. We do not know how much it may have been scrambled when it was new, but its present condition is evidently the result of it having been through the hands of a restorer who really cared about getting it right and knew just what they were doing.

In its current condition, the paintwork is close to immaculate, although it has picked up a small number of cosmetic blemishes in the years since it was restored. The aluminium and chrome is still very nice, although it is now displaying a veneer of patina, and some of the chrome is pitting in places, but not so that its immediately noticeable.

The seat is extremely good and has obviously been recovered at some point. Its condition would suggest it has scarcely been sat on since. The wheels and tyres are also very good, and the shiny chrome rims suggests to us that the Greeves has had rather a pampered life of late, far removed from the rough-and-tumble of its early years.

The Mechanics

Fitted with the 246cc Villiers 9E engine
MoTed with no (proper) advisories in 2019
May benefit from some light recommissioning

This Greeves has obviously been well cared-for, and the lovely external condition of the mechanical parts might be taken as an indicator they are in good order. We have not seen the bike run so cannot promise anything, but since it was MoTed with no proper advisories (the tester simply noted that it does not have lights, which, of course, it isn’t supposed to) in 2019, we should think it’s all still in very good health.

Since the Greeves has spent most of its time since 2020 on static display in a collection, there is a chance that some recommissioning may be needed. Then again, two years is not a long time off the road, and it’s more likely that it only needs a quick check-over and basic service. At any rate, we were satisfied with the brakes as we wheeled the bike around, but that is not to guarantee them at speed.

The Summary

This must be one of the best examples of one of the best and most famous scrambles bikes. While it’s unfortunate that we don’t know its history, we can see that it’s in excellent and very correct condition, and will probably be ready to use and enjoy just as soon as it’s had a quick service. There is still an active scrambling scene in Britain thanks to the Pre-’65 Moto-Cross Club, so the best thing you can do with this is go out and use it as intended.

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.*

A non-refundable buyer’s deposit is payable on this item, refer to FAQs and T&Cs for the applicable percentage.

All bidding, buying and offers are subject to our Terms and Conditions.