7th Dec, 2022 12:30

National Motorcycle Museum

 
  Lot 407
 

1915 James Model 6 4 1/4 HP
Long term ownership

Sold for £17,250

(including buyers premium)


Lot details

Registration No: Unregistered
Frame No: 1548
Engine No: J55786
CC: 600
MOT: Exempt

  • This 600cc 4 ¼ HP, built in 1914 for 1915 release, is equipped with full chain drive and a three speed James gear box with the gear change lever distinctively positioned through a slot in the petrol tank
  • A sensitively restored example retains original fittings including handlebars, levers, lamps, cables, foot pedals still clearly bearing the James inscription and original tinware housing the fully enclosed rear chain and primary chain
  • Rear phosphor bronze expanding band brake-lining is original still requiring oiling as per the manual instructions, with spring drive in the rear hub
  • This motorcycle will be sold as unregistered but does come complete with import paperwork
  • The James was last run in the spring of 2022 and will need light recommissioning before use

Founded in 1883, The James Cycle Company Ltd became a highly-successful manufacturer of penny-farthings in Birmingham, UK. It initially marketed strongly to the female market, one of the advertising slogans declaring, "Remember – All bicycles are not alike" becoming one of the countless West Midlands bicycle manufacturers to enter the burgeoning motorcycle market.

We are told by the vendor that this motorcycle's unique Australian history starts with Mr. Chapman, the local butcher of Port Augusta, SA. It is believed Mr. Chapman bought the James new in 1915. He rode it for about a year until his wife loathingly relegated it to under the house until Mr Warren Hicks bought it in 1958. It was then sold to the late Mr. David Provan who undertook a light restoration. Originally, it had a wicker sidecar, but this sadly rotted away and was replaced with a period sidecar. It was then purchased by the vendor's father who left it to him when he passed away.

Finished in Brown, Gold, and Red, sporting original James decals, acetylene lights, leather tool panniers, and superb alloy appointments this is a well-preserved veteran side-valve single with period sidecar. Last run in spring 2022, this motorcycle will be sold unregistered with import paperwork present.

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

 

Auction: National Motorcycle Museum, 7th Dec, 2022

An auction of classic motorcycles & vintage scooters

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Wednesday 7th December 2022, from 9am

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