1931 Sunbeam Model 9

Registration No: OG 9971
Frame No: D9861
MOT: Exempt

• Sunbeam 493cc overhead valve engine
• Complete with Current V5C and original Buff Logbook

• Part of a private collection since 2004

Founded in Wolverhampton at the turn of the 20th century, Sunbeam quickly established a reputation for exceptional engineering quality, meticulous manufacture, and mechanical refinement. From the outset, Sunbeam adopted a philosophy of building machines to the highest standards rather than to a price, a principle that distinguished the marque from many of its contemporaries and earned it a loyal following among discerning riders.

By the early 1920s Sunbeam motorcycles were widely regarded as some of the finest road machines available, noted for their smooth running, quiet mechanical operation, and longevity. The company was also active in competition, most notably securing outright victory in the 1928 Isle of Man TT, further reinforcing the technical credibility of its designs.

During this period Sunbeam embraced overhead-valve engine technology to improve performance and efficiency while retaining its trademark civility. Introduced within this context, the Model 9 represented the marque’s approach to advanced yet understated motorcycling, combining improved breathing and power delivery with the build quality and refinement for which Sunbeam had become renowned.

This Sunbeam Model 9 is presented in notably original configuration and displays the appealing patina associated with an older restoration. Fitted with a Bonniksen 100mph speedometer, the machine retains the restrained specification and refined detailing for which Sunbeam was renowned, reflecting the marque’s uncompromising emphasis on precision engineering, mechanical quietness, and longevity rather than overt sporting display.

Powered by Sunbeam’s smooth and highly regarded overhead-valve 500cc single, the Model 9 offered improved breathing and performance over side-valve designs while maintaining the refined road manners expected of the marque. In period it was considered an excellent all-rounder, equally capable of long-distance touring and brisk solo riding.

The motorcycle has formed part of a museum collection for many years and has been carefully preserved in that environment. As a result, it presents with an honest, settled appearance rather than a recently refurbished finish, a quality increasingly valued by collectors seeking originality and period correctness. Having been in long-term static display, it will require recommissioning prior to use.

Accompanied by supporting paperwork and supplied with a current V5C logbook which shows 4 previous keepers, this Model 9 represents a scarce and well-preserved example of Sunbeam’s advanced inter-war overhead-valve engineering, remaining close in spirit and appearance to how it would have been experienced when new.

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