1952 Panther 100 Combination Sidecar

Registration No: UNO 181
Frame No: 20658
MOT: Exempt

• Current ownership since 1998
• An engaging and usable example of a classic British sidecar combination
• Electronic ignion replaces the standard magneto

Produced by Phelon & Moore in Cleckheaton, Yorkshire, Panther specialised in big, torquey single-cylinder machines which excelled at pulling sidecars and covering long distances. The impressively long-lived Model 100 ran from 1932 to 1963, with many improvements over the course of its life, but always powered by the same ohv 598cc single. The first Panther was launched in 1924, but the Phelon & Moore name was not dropped until somewhere around 1929. Famously, it was a Model 100 which transported Misses Florence Blenkiron and Teresa Wallach from London to Cape Town and across the Sahara in 1935. By the early 1950s, the Model 100 was employing a Burman foot-change four-speed gearbox and Dowty Oleomatic forks, and 1952 was the first year for the Lucas Magdyno.

This 1952 Panther sidecar outfit is presented in good, original running condition and retains a notably authentic specification. The motorcycle benefits from its original mudguards, fuel tank and side boxes, together with the distinctive Dowty pneumatic front forks, which remain fully functional and reportedly have had all seals replaced. Practical upgrades are limited and sympathetic, including stainless-steel mudguard stays and an electronic ignition discreetly housed within the original magneto casing.

The engine is original and retains its correct carburettor albeit with a modern air filter element, fitted with a sidecar sprocket, and is described as being almost oil-tight. Starting is reported to be straightforward using the original half-compression lever, with the engine running well and the gearbox selecting gears smoothly.

The outfit is paired with a comfortable Squire sidecar and is reported to drive well and track straight. The wiring to the rear lamp and sidecar lighting is present but will require reconnection, and it is believed that the stop-light switch will need replacement. there is also a swingarm front end included with the bike as photographed. Overall, this represents an appealing and usable example of a classic British sidecar combination, retaining a high degree of originality with sympathetic upgrades for practical road use.

For more information, please contact:
Charles Slack
charles.slack@handh.co.uk
07889223904