1932 Sunbeam Model 9A

Lot details
Registration No: HV 2112
Frame No: L2319
Engine No: PP1157A
cc: 600
MOT Expiry Date: None

The famous Wolverhampton Sunbeam company had been absorbed into the ICI concern during 1928 and entered the 1930's with a reputation for building high quality products thanks largely to their insistence in producing as much as possible "in house". The quality of their products finish was a yardstick which other manufacturers sought to match, the secrets of which lay in the firm's early history as a manufacturer of high quality "japanned" enamel ware. By the latter half of the decade and despite the efforts of ICI's accountants to cut manufacturing costs, the company was in trouble. Sunbeam, like their rivals Velocette, was incapable of producing an inferior product which placed them at a disadvantage in the tough economic climate prevailing at the time. Consequently ICI sought to dispose of the firm, eventually selling it to the London based AJS and Matchless combine in 1937, which duly became known as Associated Motorcycles. The 599cc 9A was introduced for the 1932 season as the range leader for the touring range. And was derived from the well established Model 9, over head valve 499cc single with which it shared many components.
This example was the subject of a full restoration both mechanically and cosmetically, carried out during 2010. Dating from 1932 it is described as "running well". It is accompanied by a Swansea V5 and a buff continuation log book.