1949 Sunbeam S8 500cc

BSA had acquired ‘captured’ plans of the BMW R75 by way of reparations following WW2 and the full rights actually became part of the Sunbeam brand which resulted in the S7 created in the Redditch factory. This had a longitudinally mounted 500cc twin engine with coil ignition and shaft drive to the rear wheel rather like a motor car. As with most Sunbeam products of the era, the tendency for over-engineering was prevalent and expensive to produce, so the S8 was born with fewer costly features, while retaining many of the innovative parts and updating some ideas. A revised frame, plus a lightening of the specification enabled the S8 to be sold as a more sporty model.

First registered in Southport, this Sunbeam S8 has possibly been the subject of an older restoration.  It remains in very presentable condition (albeit with the incorrect dual seat, which is damaged). We are told that it is in good running order and is ready for the road this autumn. The S8 is currently owned by an enthusiast who is downsizing his stable to accommodate a house restoration, hence the late entry!

The history file contains MOT test certificates from 1976 to 2009, correspondence from the 1980s, invoices from the 1970s, 90s and 00s (some from Stuart Engineering at the Sunbeam Works), lots of part diagrams and lists, several editions of On The Beam, an RF60 continuation book from 1966, a V5 document, an older V5C and the current V5C registration certificate.

FOR SALE - £4500