Sunbeam 1936 Model 9 Sports 493 cc 1 cyl OHV 3609

Sunbeam 1936 Model 9 Sports 493 cc OHV frame # 17S.539.1.292 engine # 17S.538.0.308

video: https://youtu.be/aivCDur4spQ

The first production overhead-valve Sunbeams appeared in 1924 as the Model 8 and Model 9, in 350cc and 500cc form respectively. The Model 8, with its 70 × 90 mm engine, was an accomplished and sporting tourer, but it inevitably lived somewhat in the shadow of its larger and more glamorous sibling, the 80 × 98 mm Model 9. The Model 9 would go on to become one of Sunbeam’s most enduring models, remaining in production until 1939. Between 1932 and 1935 only minor changes took place; For 1936, however, Sunbeam introduced a significant improvement in the form of a new cradle frame and four-speed Burman foot-change gearbox. More intriguing still was the introduction of the Model 9 Sports for the 1936 season only. Conceived as the sporting flagship of the range, it was distinguished from the standard Model 9 by a high-compression piston, high-level exhaust, sports mudguards and larger eight-inch brakes. It was also equipped with useful panniers and an ingenious valve lifter mechanism for easy starting. The model 9 Sports can be considered as the last true sporting Sunbeam before the takeover by Matchless (AMC) in 1937. Today, the Model 9 Sports is a particularly desirable Sunbeam. The Sunbeam Register records just seven surviving examples, making this one of the rarest production variants of the Model 9.
The machine we present was found in derelict state in London in the 1960’s and bought for 500 pounds. It was restored in the 1990s by a professional motorcycle engineer to show condition. The Amal TT carburettor that is fitted was purchased from the famous Bud Ekins, who was a close friend of the restorer. This sporty machine comes with a tank-top mounted oil pressure indicator, prop stand, Smiths 85 mph speedo and bum pad. She is in very good running condition and is offered with current Dutch registration.