Barn-find British classics up for sale

Bonhams to auction collection of classic British bikes

BONHAMS is to auction a forgotten collection of 45 classic bikes in its Stafford Sale at Staffordshire County Showground on October 18.

The massive collection of unrestored bikes been untouched for a quarter of a century and includes a 1928 Triumph 494cc Model P (estimate £4,000–£5,000) and a 1934 Brough Superior 1,096cc 11-50hp (estimate £30,000–£50,000) with its original and matching frame, engine, gearbox and associated accessories. 

The collection also includes a host of motorcycles from the early 1900s, along with models from the interwar and post-war periods. The brands include BSA, Velocette, Norton, Sunbeam, Ariel, Triumph, Douglas, Brough Superior, New Imperial and Zenith. 

They were owned by the late John Keeley from Knowl Hill near Maidenhead, Berkshire, who is described by a close friend as a man with ‘a love of old machinery who started his working life in the village garage.’

The collection is being sold as part of the same auction that includes bikes owned by James May and Steve McQueen.

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