The Clive Wood MBE Collection
1926 Rudge 499cc Four Valve Four Speed Project
Registration no. PY 4958
Frame no. 14333
Engine no. 34511
Rudge Whitworth's first four-valve production motorcycle appeared in 1924, and the company would persevere with the layout until manufacture ceased at the outbreak of WW2. The motorcycling public's response to this new four-valve, four-speed model was enthusiastic, and by the end of 1924 twice as many machines had been produced as in 1923. The full potential of Rudge's four-valves-per-cylinder design was slow to emerge, but in 1928 Graham Walker's works '500' became the first motorcycle to win a road race - the Ulster Grand Prix - at an average speed in excess of 80mph, a feat which led to the introduction of the legendary 'Ulster' sports model. A variety of valve arrangements was tried across a variety of 250cc, 350cc and 500cc four-valve models as the range developed throughout the 1930s. Sadly, the marque did not re-emerge after WW2.

Carrying a tax disc that expired in 1938, this early four-valve, four-speed Rudge was purchased for the late owner's private collection some 37 years ago. An older restoration, the machine is offered for further renovation and is sold strictly as viewed (the engine turns over). Accompanying documentation consists of an old-style V5; HPI check sheet; and an old-style buff logbook issued in 1938 (last stamped in 1942). Although not shown, the detached rear wheel comes with the machine.
Footnotes:
All lots are sold 'as is/where is' and Bidders must satisfy themselves as to the provenance, condition, age, completeness and originality prior to bidding.

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This Lot will be auctioned on Sunday 21 April starting at 11am GMT.
Lot to be sold without reserve.