Sunbeam S7 Classic 1947 S8

For Sale Sunbeam S7

Frame Number: S7 - 453

Engine Number: S7 - 375

Recorded Mileage: 1.067

Description:

The S7 was designed by Erling Poppe. the first prototypes were produced in 1945. it was originally to be based on the BMW R75. however it was felt that this was too German looking and after the war would not sell. The motorcycle that was designed instead used the shaft drive of the BMW and the heavy wheels and forks. but instead of a flat boxer twin. a new in-line OHC parallel twin was designed. The early bikes did not have the rubber mounted engines of the production models. production test reports stated that the vibration made the bikes unfit for purpose. however Sunbeam still sold these machines. only later to recall them all to retro fit the new engine mounts.

This particular machine is an early production model. I am not able to say whether it was one of the machines recalled. it would certainly seem possible. it certainly does now have the rubber engine mounts. It is in very good condition both cosmetically and mechanically. it does appear to have seen a level of restoration. for a full assessment of the machine please see our description below.

Cosmetic

This motorcycle is in very good cosmetic condition. the petrol tank does have some marks and crazing in the paint; it would appear to have seen restoration and these are areas of filler. this aside the tank has no dents or damage. The side panels are in very good condition. The mudguards are in very good shape. both are very solid with no damage or dents.

The seats are both good. the riders seat is starting to separate a little on the rear seam but this is very minor. the pillion seat is in good condition.

The standard two into one exhaust system is in good clean condition. The wheel rims appear to be the original items and are good shape with no damage.

Mechanical

The engine runs exceptionally well. it is mechanically very quiet. the exhaust has a very distinctive and understated note. it ticks over very smoothly and pulls cleanly when revved. The engine cases are clean with no damage and there are no signs of the bike being crashed or dropped.

The clutch works well and the gears select cleanly and smoothly. there are no known issues in the drive train.

Chassis and Cycle Parts

The chassis and cycle parts are in good order.

The frame is undamaged and the paint very clean.

The brakes are both working effectively and on the suspension side the forks are clean and in good order the action is smooth and the damping effective. the rear shocks are in good order and is damping well.

The rear wheel does have some play in the wheel bearings which will need attention. no play was noted in the steering head bearings and the front wheel bearings.

Electrical

The sidelight is working. the headlight is not working on high and dip beam. when first started it was working on high beam. we suspect that high / low switch is not working properly. it does not have a positive feel. The horn button is on the same switch and this is also not working although the original horn is still in place. The bike is charging as it should and the speedo is working.

Summary

This is a lovely example of a very sought after British classic machine. made all the more interesting by its very early production. it requires very little in terms of time or money to return it to the road. It is cosmetically in very good order and mechanically the bike is running beautifully. these are very distinctive and pretty machines and this old girl should give someone a summer to remember.

Now you have read the description you might want to place a

Bid? Before you do please read the information below.

This Motorcycle will need to be registered with DVLA. The Registration procedure is simple. We spend a good deal of time working with the DVLA and HMRC to ensure that are bikes are compliant with all current legislation in order that our customers do not have any difficulties in obtaining age related registrations. we have not had a problem with this in over 700 motorcycles we have sold.

How to register an Imported Motorcycle.

1. MOT the motorcycle on the chassis number. not required for pre 1960 machines.

2. Insure the motorcycle on the chassis number.

3. We at the Motorcycle Emporium will provide the following forms:

▪ An invoice

▪ A V55/5 – Application form to register the bike at DVLA

▪ NOVA reference number as proof duties paid

▪ Contact details for the provision of a dating certificate for the age related number plate

4. Post all the paper work to the DVLA

5. You will then receive your tax disc. a new MOT certificate with your new registration mark within 3 to 10 days.

6. A normal V5C Registration Certificate will follow by post within the next 28 days.

7. DVLA will charge £55.00 plus the road tax fee to register the motorcycle