1927 Sunbeam Model 9, 493 cc. Registration number RA 1513. F...

Hammer

£12,000

1927 Sunbeam Model 9, 493 cc. Registration number RA 1513. Frame number not found, see text. Engine number L1302.
The Model 6 was one of the longest running Sunbeam models having been introduced in 1922 and remaining in the catalogue, with changes of name until the manufacture of Sunbeams effectively ceased at the end of 1939. The Model 6 492cc side valve single had benefitted from the company's experience with a prototype machine raced at the 1921 French Grand Prix. Dubbed the "Longstroke" by enthusiasts and the factory alike as a means of differentiating it from the existing 85mm x 88mm engine, whose origins lay in the design dating from 1913, the new power plant had dimensions of 77mm x 105mm giving a displacement of 492cc. The new model quickly demonstrated its worth, securing victory in the 1922 Senior TT with a lap of 59.99 mph in the hands of Alec Bennett resulting in the model being marketed as the "Longstroke TT" for the 1922 and 1923 seasons. From 1924 it was known simply as the Model 6 sharing its cycle parts with the short stroke Model 5 between 1923 and 1926. The ICI takeover of Sunbeam resulted in a change of name to "The Lion" from 1929 and a saddle tank was adopted in 1930, the turn of the decade also marking the shift in the "Longstrokes" role from rakish sportster to reliable tourer, whilst retaining the high quality finish and sound, reliable, engineering for which Sunbeam motorcycles were renowned.
RA was first registered on the 11th January 1927 and by 1940 it was with John Tideswell of Mansfield, postwar James Ridgewell owned it in 1946 followed by Roy Powell in 1947, all in Mansfield. Our vendors father bought it from him in 1976, some 50 years ago. By this time the engine had changed from J1118 to its current L1302 (Model 9), and the frame from J1118 to D1182, as shown on a 2001 and 2005 MOT.
Upgraded and fitted with many period accessories this machine has benefitted from long term love and improvement.
Sold with the V5C, V5, R.F.60 and several MOT's.