1923 Bradbury Blackburn Racing Model, 348cc. Registration nu...

Estimate

£6,500 - £7,500

1923 Bradbury Blackburn Racing Model, 348cc. Registration number SV 8652 (non transferrable). Frame number TT23/1. Engine number (Blackburn) CG914. Gearbox number 48802.
Sold with the V5C, receipts for works on the engine and carb, various paperwork relating to the Bradbury Race Model.
Oldham sewing machine manufacturer Bradbury's branched out in motorcycle production in 1898, between 1904 and 1906 they produced tricars with various bodies. By 1905 a range of motorcycles were produced between 4 and 6hp using different engine suppliers such as Clement-Gerrard and Blackburne.
In 1909 they standardised on a 3.5hp and in 1914 a 6hp V twin was introduced, remaining in production after WWI. By 1920 they had three models a 2.75 and 4hp singles as well as a 6hp V twin and in 1924 a racing model was introduced fitted with a 348cc Blackburne engine. Production ceased in early 1924 but the stock was bought by former employee Percy Platt who sold spares and new machines in Oldham for several years. In 1929 the old works were bought by the New Henley company, who collapsed in 1931.
This machine was registered with DVLA in 2000, stating its manufacture to be 1923. Our vendor bought it in 2007 and has created a replica of the proposed 1923/4 2 3/4hp race bike using a period correct OHV Blackburne engine and frame, a close ratio gearbox and a Lucas TT magneto, the petrol tank has been replaced with a new hand made example. The engine and gearbox were rebuilt by Ian Jennings at a cost of £662 in 2009 and the carb overhauled, all parts were restored and different wheels were used instead of the period correct bead edge ones as he wanted to race it. In 2009 he rode it at the Djon Historic Meet, it has been to many tracks over the following years but it is now time for a new custodian.
Sold with the V5C, receipts for works on the engine and carb, various paperwork relating to the Bradbury Race Model, and an old tank.