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Uncommon Motors

When ordinary just won't do

Pre War 1936 Sunbeam Model 9 Looks Properly British

September 27, 2016 by Paul Crowe

1936 Sunbeam Model 9
1936 Sunbeam Model 9

Picture in your mind a pre war era British motorcycle and you would come up with something very much like this Sunbeam Model 9. The engine catches your eye first, but the entire machine wrapped around the 500cc single, plays the part well, right down to the “pedestrian slicer” on the front mudguard.

1936 Sunbeam Model 9 500cc single
1936 Sunbeam Model 9 powered by a 500cc single

This particular example, previously owned by motorcycle author Harry V. Sucher, starts and runs very well and the 4 speed transmission shifts properly. The current owner indicates that while a few parts are not exactly correct, they serve well and would not likely be noticed except by Sunbeam experts or a far too fussy Concours judge.

1936 Sunbeam Model 9
1936 Sunbeam Model 9, very British and never to be ridden without a proper waxed cotton jacket and puddin’ bowl helmet.

British bikes of this era really do require proper riding attire. Strap on a full face helmet and bright colored leathers and you will be shunned. You may wish to work on your accent as well. Tell ’em your grandfather kept it in his shed after the war and saved it just for you.

This 1936 Sunbeam Model 9 was for sale on eBay, but the listing has ended.

Filed Under: British, Motorcycles Tagged With: 1930s, British, Sunbeam

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Comments

  1. Davidabl2 says

    September 27, 2016 at 1:06 pm

    It would have been the the ultimate steed for last Sunday’s Distinguished Gentleman’s Ride. Unless you could get your hands on a pre-war Brit multicylinder bike..

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