Lot details
Registration No: BF 4437
Frame No: 12029
Engine No: 54178
cc: 800
MOT Expiry Date: None

The period from 1910 to the outbreak of the Great War saw a huge increase in motorcycle usage within the United Kingdom with the numbers of machines in use rising from 36,242 in 1910 to 123,678 in 1914. The significant increase can largely be explained by the increased sophistication and reliability of the machinery available which changed the public's perception of motorcycles and their riders. The adoption of variable gears, clutches, mechanical valves, improved ignition systems and refined carburettors all aided reliability and ease of use resulting in motorcycles becoming a means of transport for many rather than a curiosity for the few.
The development of variable gears was given impetuous by the ACU's decision to run the 1911 TT over the full Mountain circuit, a course that made a means of variable gearing necessary rather than just desirable. At the forefront of this trend was Royal Enfield who developed a two speed system, coupled to an all chain transmission. The new system was particularly beneficial when combined with the large capacity 8hp vee twin, coupled to a sidecar. Royal Enfield had introduced a revised version of their 8hp vee twin during 1912 with mechanical valve operation replacing the "automatic" or atmospheric system previously employed.
This delightful example, dating from 1915, is offered in original, unrestored condition. The vendor informs us that the engine and gears function perfectly. Over the course of the last few years it has been used on a regular basis to raise funds for local charities by giving people rides in the lovely wicker sidecar. It is offered with a Swansea V5, an expired MOT and tax disc and a dating certificate issued by Roy Bacon. A framed and signed copy of an oil painting commissioned by the Gerona Vintage Motorcycle Club of the combination is supplied with the machine.