Description
1930 Douglas SW5 Speed Model 498cc -rare bike in superb condition
Having been a prolific builder of motorcycles, especially for the war effort, Bristol Based Douglas already had a stellar reputation in the racing world, having taken 1st, 2nd and 4th places in the 1912 Isle of Man Junior TT, when war broke out in Europe in 1914.
After the war Douglas continued to build on its success of its horizontally-opposed fore and aft twin and when the new sport of speedway was introduced to Britain in 1928, all of the major manufacturers were quick to list a dirt-track model, with Douglas quickly achieving dominance with its 500cc DT5 and 600cc DT6 overhead valve bikes. Sublimely quick, they benefited from the unique fore and aft engine configuration, which blessed the bikes with a slimness and low centre of gravity, which saw the marque achieve huge success in the sport.
The company capitalised on the success in speedway, by introducing the SW model for general racing work and it quickly proved itself as a very competitive motorcycle. They differed by the addition of brakes for both wheels, twin mudguards, a nearside footrest, flywheel clutch and a new silencer and these new models quickly saw many race successes.
I purchased her from an elderly gentleman, who obviously had a thing for Douglas SW5’s, as he had three of them, but due to advancing age (he was in his 80’s) he had decided to reduce his collection. I paid a deposit and when I went to collect the bike, I mentioned to the seller that I had been watching Henry Body videos (famous sprinter on Douglas bikes) and he said that the engine on the bike had been prepared by Henry as they were good friends for many years, which I have no reason to doubt.
The bike is an older restoration, but remains in excellent condition and has been set-up for sprints, with the addition of a Norton dolls head gearbox (much stronger than the original box, though I have this and it will come with the bike) and converted to foot change -a common practice with these bikes, though could easily be converted back, should you wish. I have used her at various vintage events, including Brooklands and Kop Hill Climb, and she is incredibly fast -I have never ridden a vintage bike this quick!
She sounds incredible through her straight-through pipes and rides very well, but I have not used her much in the last couple of years, as I have had a hip issue and recently had a hip replacement and find her a little cramped for me now, so reluctantly decided to sell her.
She comes with a V5 in my name and a VMCC dating certificate confirming she is a 1930 bike etc.
Viewing most welcome near Henley-on-Thames, RG9 5NB and I can help with couriers/ delivery.
A rare opportunity to purchase a very desirable vintage motorcycle that is incredibly quick and offering excellent value at £16, 750
