9th Jul, 2025 12:00

National Motorcycle Museum | Solihull, West Midlands

 
Lot 321
 

1946 James ML
No Reserve

Sold for £3,450

(including buyers premium)


Lot details

Registration No: GAD 434
Frame No: 6871
MOT: Exempt

  • From a large private collection of motorcycles
  • One of very few survivors
  • Seemingly in very original, unrestored condition

The James ML was intended for use by airborne forces during the Second World War. ML stood for ‘Military Lightweight’ and, at just 150lbs, it was deserving of the name, although it was more cheekily nicknamed the 'mechanical mouse'. After the war, the ML continued to be produced to a civilian specification, as in the case of this survivor. Powered by a Villiers 9D single-cylinder two-stroke engine, the gearbox was a Villiers three-speed with hand change. The ML had a rigid frame with a bolted-on rear section and flat-bladed girder forks. Fitted with a single sprung saddle, the luggage rack and pannier attachment were standard fitment. The model was replaced by the James Comet late in 1948.

On offer is a lovely little 1948 James ML that has formed part of a large collection of motorcycles. It looks to be a lovely original, unrestored example, with one or two signs of a cosmetic touch-up here and there. MLs are quite a rare little machine today, so this really is quite a special survivor, especially in such original condition. After a long period of storage, it will require some recommissioning, after which it would be great fun to enjoy as an ‘oily rag’. The sale includes a V5C.

For more information, please contact:
Mike Davis
mike.davis@handh.co.uk
07718 584217

 

Auction: National Motorcycle Museum | Solihull, West Midlands, 9th Jul, 2025

VIEW MOTORCYCLE ENTRIES VIEW VINTAGE SCOOTER ENTRIES 

An auction of classic motorcycles & vintage scooters taking place at the National Motorcycle Museum, Solihull, West Midlands.

VENUE INFORMATION GET A COMPLIMENTARY VALUATION

 

Bidding will take place live at the venue, online via our website, by telephone and commission. 

Parking and entry into the auction is free for auction attendees with a catalogue, available at the door.

To enquire about entering your motorcycle or vintage scooter into auction please call our sales office on 01925 210035, email sales@HandH.co.uk or click the Get A Valuation button. Valuations are complimentary and without obligation.

To join the auction in person or via the telephone, please click here for more information How to BidTo take part in online bidding please click 'Register to Bid | Sign In' at the top of the page or bid through our auction partners Saleroom.com Saleroom

 

Viewing

Tues 8th July from 1pm 
Wed 9th July from 9am

   View Catalogue   

View all lots in this sale

All successful bids must be paid in full by midday the day after the auction at the latest.

You can collect your new pride and joy from our venue until 1pm the day following the sale or our partners are on hand to help arrange safe transportation:

               

Do you have an item to sell?

If so, contact one of our friendly specialists for your free valuation by completing the form below and someone will get back to you as quickly as possible.

If you prefer to speak to humans, don't hesitate to call our office on +44 (0)1925 210035

Contact Us Today!

 

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