Highlights

Example of first year of production of the Model 9A
Complete rebuild over more than 18 months by specialist Roger Banks
Shown at the Moto Légende show in Paris shortly after restoration
In the same ownership since 2012, stored in an environment with controlled temperature and humidity
Supplied with a French registration document and a UK V5C

What makes it special

The Sunbeam Model 9A dates from the “Sunbeam Marston” period (before BSA took over the brand in 1943), an era when these bikes were admired for their build quality. Even today, the Sunbeam 9A is regarded as one of the best pre-war bikes on the immediate market.

Unveiled in 1932 as a 600cc evolution of the famous overhead-valve Model 9, the 9A inherited an impressive motorsport pedigree, forged through victories at the TT, Bol d’Or, and in Grand Prix racing. World War II put a stop to production, but interest from collectors has remained strong ever since. Quite rightly.

This example has been fully rebuilt from A to Z over roughly 18 months, with careful mechanical work carried out by specialist Roger Banks. Shortly after the restoration was completed, in 2013, it was displayed at the Moto Légende show in Paris, where the seller states it was among the most noteworthy machines on the stand.

Purchased in 2012, the motorcycle then remained within a major private collection, kept in a temperature-controlled environment. The seller notes that a thorough recommissioning and a period of running-in are recommended, given its long period of storage.

To further reinforce the bike’s authenticity, an extra Lucas Altette horn is included in the sale.

It’s fitted with an oil pressure gauge located in the fuel tank and a complete electrical system with an ammeter integrated into the headlamp.

Key information

Odometer: N/A
Country of registration: France
Roadworthiness test: exempt
Engine: single-cylinder OHV 600cc, 4-speed manual gearbox
Documentation: French registration document and UK V5C

Details

Complete rebuild carried out over approximately 18 months, completed around 2013
Mechanical work entrusted to specialist Roger Banks
Oil pressure sender installed on the tank
Electrical installation with an ammeter integrated into the headlamp
Original Lucas Altette horn included in the sale
Stored in a temperature-controlled unit within a private collection since restoration
Presented in concours condition according to the seller
Registered in France in 2021
A careful recommissioning and a period of running-in are recommended

BEFORE YOU BUY

This sale is subject to the general terms and conditions of Car & Classic. By bidding and/or making an offer, you also accept the following:

✓ The seller is registered as a private vendor, which means that the consumer rights arising from European consumer protection legislation do not apply. However, you are still covered by Car & Classic’s general terms and conditions.

✓ We ask that non-refundable fees be paid if you are the successful bidder or if your offer is accepted. Please refer to our FAQs and general terms and conditions for the specific charges.

✓ This vehicle is "sold as seen", on a "where is, as is" basis and with no warranty. The photos and descriptions are provided for guidance only, and it is customary to arrange a full inspection of the vehicle before purchase for your own peace of mind.

✓ VAT is included in the buyer’s deposit. VAT may or may not be included in the final offer or submission price, as specified in the listing.

✓ We want the transaction to run smoothly, just like you do, which is why UK-registered cars and motorcycles listed on Car & Classic are subject to an HPI check to verify that they do not show any baseline insurance-database markers for damage or theft, and that they are not subject to a financial lien—allowing you to bid with confidence.

✓ We also check whether vehicles are recorded as being written off following a total loss claim at the time the listing is posted on Car & Classic and we provide category labels for write-offs (Cat C/D/S/N) to help you. The presence or absence of a label, however, does not guarantee the vehicle’s status, and it’s always useful to carry out a full vehicle history check before making an offer on it.

✓ Buyers are responsible for the collection or delivery of the vehicle. Importing vehicles may result in additional customs duties and import taxes. If you wish, we can recommend a third-party transport company to help. For more details and to speak with the team, email auctions@carandclassic.com.