Description
In 1957 this bike was one of the special S7 motorcycles supplied to the Portuguese Government to provide an escort to Queen Elizabeth 2 as she toured the country as part of her post Coronation World Tour. These bikes were ridden by the 2nd Cavalry Regiment of the National Guard. After the visit 18 of the bikes were then used by the “Carossell Moto Squadron” (White Helmet style display team) to carry out public acrobatic display routines across the country, and included 12 men riding on one bike, only possible because the S7 had car size wheels and tyres. See attached photographs and have a look at the many YouTube clips of these displays and 1957 Pathe News showing the Queen being escorted by these bikes.
This is one of perhaps two or three (?) display bikes that have found their way back to the UK.
There are verification documents from Stewart Engineering together with pre restoration photographs showing the original metallic grey paint and appropriate holes to mount the various support platforms fitted to the bikes. The bikes were all supplied with white wall tyres.
This bike has been subject to a fastidious total nut and bolt restoration over a long period to achieve a display standard. A detailed photographic record is available to verify this together with a sequential file of receipts from Stewart Engineering etc. etc.
Various polished stainless steel parts have been fabricated. Worthwhile modifications have been added including lightened clutch, roller release bearing, Stewart breather and sump spacer, LED bulbs etc.
Offered at a fraction of restoration cost, the bike has only covered 245 miles since. As an aged retired architect, I have other projects in mind and obviously enjoy the restoration challenge rather than the riding ! Please contact me if you would like a chat or more details or photographs. This is a genuine out of season opportunity for someone.
