Sunbeam Motorcycles Lion Long Stroke 1932
The Sunbeam story is typical of the English marques.
Sunbeam started off as a small amalgamation of businesses producing radiators for the car and aircraft industry, Deloford portable safety boats, Seagull brand 2 stroke outboard motors, enamelled goods, bicycles and of course motorcycles.
The side-valve Long Stroke Lion model (492cc) secured its debut win in the 1921 French GP in the hands of rider Alec Bennett. In road form this remarkable engine remained in production right up until WW2.
1932 saw a return to the all-black-with-gold lining on the petrol tank, the rear mudguard acquire a hinge and a stay for easy rear wheel removal (front and rear wheels are interchangeable).
The side valve Lion engine appears in 500cc and 600cc (this being a 500cc version), has detachable cylinder heads, and the side valves are enclosed within a protective box.
A 4-speed gearbox was new for this year along with the push rod and clutch mechanism.
This bike has an owner’s information pack. It includes new fuel tank transfers,1928-1939 service manual, plus Sunbeam history story and information.