Bonhams Cars : 1937 Scott 498cc Flying Squirrel Frame no. S4397 Engine no. DPZ 4459 (2024)

This very handsome Scott was first registered in July 1937. Scotts had already adopted detachable head engines for the 1935 models – in their road test of that year "The Motor Cycle" observed that the new engine "is more docile, more flexible, and faster." The next noteworthy update was the move to a foot operated gearchange for 1937, although traditionalists could still specify a hand-change if preferred. Again, "The Motor Cycle" liked it very much, reporting that "In top gear (4.62 to 1) the usable range of speed was from 10 mph to very nearly 80 mph, and throughout this range not a trace of vibration could be felt from engine or transmission". However, at a price of £80, you had to be fairly well heeled to afford a Flying Squirrel in 1937, and for this reason it sold in small numbers.

The vendor tells us that this Scott was renovated by his uncle, the late "Bob" Jones. Bob, also known as "Mr Speedway", enjoyed a long and successful career with the Swindon Robins speedway team, for whom at different times he was a rider, team captain, team manager, and team mechanic. Over 48 seasons he never missed a home meeting at Swindon's Abbey Stadium, and he was still winning exhibition races with the Veteran Speedway Riders' Association in his seventies. Following Bob's death, his nephew (the vendor) inherited the Scott in 1997. It was drained of fuel and coolant, and has been carefully stored in favourable conditions ever since, with the engine being turned over on a regular basis. Both the engine and the frame date from 1937, and in the words of Ian Parsons, the Registrar of The Scott Owners' Club: "Almost certainly matching Frame and Engine."

It is accompanied by a V5C, older V5, and an old continuation logbook which shows Bob Jones as the registered keeper in 1977. Also supplied are a 1987 MOT certificate, two original copies and a BMS reprint of "The Book of the Scott", and two very nice letters to Bob Jones from a previous owner, Bob Kirkman, who had owned the Scott in the 1950s. It appears that the Magdyno may have been converted to some form of electronic ignition because an on/off toggle switch is fitted. No keys are supplied, and we assume that none are required. Very nicely presented as it is, the Scott hasn't been run for quite a while, and recommissioning will therefore be required before taking to the road. Prospective bidders should satisfy themselves as to the motorcycle's completeness and mechanical condition prior to bidding. Sold strictly as viewed.
Key not required

All lots are sold 'as is/where is' and Bidders must satisfy themselves as to the provenance, condition, age, completeness and originality prior to bidding.

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