By the 1920s the Sunbeam motorcycles made by John Marston Ltd. at their factory complex ‘Sunbeamland’, Wolverhampton, were generally acknowledged to be the highest quality machines available.The factory maintained an active and very successful competition department under George Dance.
source/image(PrtSc): yesterdaysnl
The most expensive machine in their range was nominally the JAP-engined 8hp, though this was only to special order even then, being dropped for 1925.The effective top-of-the-range Sunbeam was the 599cc 4¼hp Sunbeam Motor Bicycle’ priced at 115 Guineas.In addition, the maker’s No. 1 Sidecar and chassis represented an additional 35 Guineas (the price for ‘The Gentleman’s Motor Bicycle’ was never quoted in mere pounds!).//yesterdaysnl
This formidable amount, over a year’s wages for most people, reflected the sheer quality of the construction and its finish in black enamel with 22ct. gold-leaf lining. It also ensured that relatively few were sold, making any survivors very rare.
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With a powerful side-valve single-cylinder engine, to designer John Greenwood’s classic layout, this maker’s combination featured three speeds and chain-drive enclosed in Sunbeam’s characteristic ‘Little Oil-bath’ chain-cases, as well as a luxurious, coach-built sidecar with fully interchangeable wheels.Perhaps surprisingly, the 4¼ was very successful in long-distance trials.This combination was first registered on February, 26 1924.via/read more: yesterdaysnl
