Description
1934 Sunbeam Lion Longstroke 598 cc side valve single, frame#7B.492.0.1031 engine# 7B.490.1.1163
The Wolverhampton based firm of John Marston earned fame for their superb bicycles in the early years of the last century.
In 1912 their first motorcycle was presented, a 350 cc side valve model ( 75x 79 bore and stroke) with a 2-speed gearbox.
Soon the capacity was increased to 500cc, and also models with proprietary V-twin engines were made.
Sunbeam motorcycles gained fame for their very high standards of workmanship, their speed and their reliability: races all over Europe were won in the early half of the twenties with machines equipped with the very fast and reliable “ Longstroke” side valve engine with bore/stroke of 77x 105.5 mm. In June 1930 the Longstroke model was restyled, it got bought-in welded steel petrol and oil tanks. It was designated “ Lion” because the Lion was one of the ICI trademarks.
From September 1930 all Sunbeams got the new Webb-type front forks with centre spring.
In the course of 1931 a 598 cc version of the Lion became available.
This machine had dimensions of 85×105.5 mm.
This reliable, high quality Sunbeam tourer is very suitable for vintage rallies.
It is equipped with Lucas electrics and is well restored.