Lot details Registration No: RSY 828 Frame No: S85072 Engine No: S811694 cc: 500 MOT Expiry Date: None
Sunbeam introduced the 500cc S7 to the public during 1947. The new model was intended as the "group flagship" and consequently, Erling Poppe, it's chief architect, designed a machine that incorporated many innovative features. The short-stroke, overhead cam, in line twin cylinder engine was mated to a shaft final drive via a four speed gearbox with an under slung "worm" gear transmitting the drive to the rear wheel. The all alloy engine and gearbox were mounted in a duplex frame equipped with plunger rear suspension, telescopic forks, 16 inch balloon tyres and sprung saddle all contributed to providing a comfortable ride. Unfortunately the luxurious specification came with a weight penalty, the new model weighing considerably more than 400lbs, Harsh running and a peaky power delivery had been identified during pre production testing and resulted in the engine being detuned. Consequently the machine struggled to exceed 75mph when tested, comparable to a far cheaper ohv 350cc single resulting in poor sales, potential buyers admired the technical specification but opted for the quicker and cheaper parallel twins then available.
In response to the poor sales BSA introduced a revised model, adopting new forks during 1949 together with a lighter, altogether, more sporting model variant typed the S8. The S8 reverted to normal section tyres and employed standard BSA forks and front brake. The result was a machine that handled with greater precision without sacrificing the high level of comfort afforded by the design to any great extent and looked "lighter whilst production costs were reduced thanks to the employment of the "stock" BSA forks and front brake unit. The two machines continued to be offered until 1957, selling steadily to their target market of discerning enthusiasts a, trend that continues today .
This example of the S8 is finished in the black livery which is described as being in fair to good condition by the vendor. According to the vendor it has never needed a full restoration, instead benefiting from work as and when required with the cycle parts, electrical system and transmission being described as good and the engine fair. It is accompanied by its original buff log book, owners manual, workshop manual and old MOT.
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