Although, it propelled Sid Gleave to victory in the 1933 Isle of Man Junior TT race at an average speed of 72.62mph, the 'Mechanical Marvel' was just too complex for Excelsior to consider series production. In addition to the tooling cost implications of its twin carburettor, dual camshaft and pushrod operated four-valve radial cylinder head specification, the 'Marvel' also promised to be a warranty nightmare. Nevertheless, determined not to lose the publicity benefits of its hard-won competition success, Excelsior asked Blackburne's Ike Hatch to come up with a simpler, more reliable powerplant. Utilising a conventional bevel-driven overhead camshaft, the resultant single-cylinder engine was both simple and effective. Displacing 248cc courtesy of its bore (63mm) and stroke (79mm), it developed a reputed 16bhp @ 5,000rpm. Mounted in a rigid frame and mated to a four-speed foot change gearbox, the whole ensemble was christened the Manxman. Debuting at the 1934 Olympia Motorcycle Show, the new model proved a palpable hit. Proving that its name was no idle boast, a four-valve racing version took second place in the 1936, 1937 and 1938 Lightweight TTs.
Finished in red over black, this particular road-going example is described by the vendor as being in good condition with regard to its engine, cycle parts, paint / brightwork, transmission, magneto and frame / suspension. Reputedly restored in 1984, it was apparently the subject of an article in The Classic Motorcycle some two years later which detailed the previous owner's successful attempts to resurrect it from a basket case. While, the relevant bills no longer accompany the bike, it does come with a copy of the article. Rarer than rivals such as the Velocette KSS or Norton International, the Excelsior Manxman retains a loyal following to this day.
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