Highlights
- Recipient of a high-quality restoration in the early 1990s
- Very well-preserved with little subsequent use
- Only 505 miles on the odometer
- Offered for sale from a large motorcycle collection
The Appeal
Though Rudge motorcycles were only made for a relatively brief period of time, from 1911 to 1946, during that period they were really at the top of game. During the marque’s heyday in the 1930s, its 250 and 350cc models achieved podium finishes in the Isle of Man Junior and Senior TTs and many other race meetings besides.
In the wake of these achievements, Rudge introduced its new 250cc model, the Rapid, in 1936. Sold as ‘The “250” with the “350” performance’, it appealed very much to the section of the market which wanted a quick, sporty bike, but for whom cost and economy were a consideration. Unfortunately, though, its life was cut short when war broke out and Rudge turned its factory over to radar production.
This example is a fairly rare survivor, but a very good one. It was restored in the 1990s and appears to have had very little use since, such that the restoration scarcely looks more than a couple of years old. In such condition as this, it would be a welcome sight at any motorcycle show or rally.
The History and Paperwork
- Originally sold through Glanfield Lawrence Ltd. of Kent
- It resurfaces in 1992, when it was sold as an incomplete project by Mr. Don Church to Mr. Keith Forster, who restored it and put it back on the road in January 1996
- Bought by the present owner from well-known classic motorcycle specialist Bill Little Motorcycles in 2016
- Occasionally participated in local events, including the 2017 Shuttleworth Race Day
- Offered for sale from a large motorcycle collection
- Sold with the original V5, a copy of the original Kent County Council registration records, a large collection of notes and correspondence pertaining to the restoration, and some MoT certificates issued between 2008 and 2013
The Condition
- Restored to a very high standard
- Paintwork and brightwork has lasted very well
- Still virtually immaculate despite the finish being almost 30 years old
Sometimes, when a motorcycle gets restored, 30 years later it’s time to start all over again. Clearly, that isn’t the case with this Rudge. In fact, you’d be hard-pressed to tell that much more than a day had passed since the restoration was finished. The years hardly seem to have affected it at all. We’ve looked very closely and cannot find fault with it. Being an older restoration there may be one or two small blemishes but, if there are, they are not at all obvious.
The wheels and the rest of the brightwork still possesses a very high shine, and the seat barely looks like it has been sat on since it was recovered.
The copious notes he took give the impression that Mr. Forster was a meticulous and exacting restorer. The fact that, years later, his work still looks so good would seem to confirm it. Every aspect of this Rudge surpasses our expectations of an older restoration.
The Mechanics
- Full mechanical rebuild during restoration
- Appears to have only just been run-in
- Said to have been running very well when the vendor acquired it
Although we have not been able to see the Rudge run, we are advised by the owner that it started and ran very well when it joined his collection in 2016, and it has received some light use since then.
From what we can see, it all looks to be in very good order. Externally, the engine presents extremely well, and we are confident that Mr. Forster undertook to restore each mechanical system to the highest possible standard. From his notes of the restoration, it seems that it was necessary to rebuild everything, including the engine, gearbox, brakes and suspension.
What impresses us most is that the odometer shows a remarkably low reading of just 505 miles. Assuming the clock was set to zero on the restoration’s completion in 1995, that would mean it has only just been run-in, so we expect the mechanical side to be pretty much like-new.
As it has now been on static display in the owner’s collection for a few years, we would advise bidders to conduct a general inspection and some light recommissioning before taking to the road but that should be a very simple and straightforward job for one Sunday afternoon.
The Summary
Representing one of the smaller offerings from one of the greatest marques of the pre-war period, there ought to be space for a Rudge Rapid in every collection. They don’t appear for sale terribly often, but this is a great opportunity to acquire one in superb condition, a well-preserved older restoration which just wants some routine recommissioning before you’re ready to go and have fun with it.
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.
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