1927 Sunbeam Model 9, 493 cc. Registration number SF 7949. F...

Hammer

£13,500

1927 Sunbeam Model 9, 493 cc. Registration number SF 7949. Frame number D1032. Engine number L1037.
The John Marston Ltd., Wolverhampton Model 9 had a long and illustrious history beginning in 1924 and finishing in 1938, during this time it underwent many changes, from a flat tank 3 speed to a saddle tank 4 speed machine in the mid 1930's. The engine was under constant development, changes were made to the lubrication and the valve mechanism to name but two.
The introduction of the Parallel Model 9 so called because of the top frame tubes was introduced in 1924. It featured overhead valves, a 3 speed gear box and flat tank. Sunbeam introduced the model as a sports roadster complete with toolkit mounted below the chain guard. There was no kick start so being fairly adept at a running start was a necessity.
In 1926 saw the provision of a kick start as standard. The 1927 M9 was now a much more user-friendly machine with a kick start, a balanced front mudguard, and a rear carrier as standard. The front fork was strengthened, and adjustable damping provided. A larger front brake was fitted, but the single spring clutch was retained. A Best & Lloyd pump supplied oil for the total loss lubrication system, and the familiar end-plate type rocker box was introduced.
The 1927 catalogue description mentions: "This model has been improved in many ways since last season. The engine lubrication has been simplified, the overhead rocking gear has been redesigned, giving greatly increased bearing surfaces. A luggage carrier has been added and shock absorbers incorporated in the front forks." In 1928 the cost was 75 guineas.
SF is a Glasgow registration but it is known from old tax discs that the machine was taxed in Edinburgh in 1938, 1939 and 1940, the next one is 1945 so presumably it was off the road for the war duration. The R.F.60 records Robert Jones of Edinburgh as the owner in 1947 with James Lawrie of Roxburgh buying it in 1964. MOT's follow for 1964, 65, 69, 70, 75, 88, 98, 99, 2002, 06, 07, 08, 09, 10, 11, 12 and 16. In 2007 the carburetor and the magneto were rebuilt. In 2009 it passed to his son, Duncan and when our vendor bought it in December 2016 it had been on a pedestal on display. Used sparingly, our vendor is downsizing his home. When delivered he started it with ease.
Sold with the V5C, R.F. 60, afore-mentioned MOT's, tax discs, various receipts and Heathcote's "The Book of the Sunbeam".