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Lot: 801
1940 New Hudson Autocycle

Registration No. FO 4005
Chassis No. MC 242
Engine No. XX 9091
Estimate: £500-£600

New Hudson of Birmingham was one of the pioneer motorcycle manufactures, their first machine being produced in 1903. Production of fine bikes continued until 1932, when the company began producing Girling brake parts and other car components for the motor trade. However, in 1939, using their bike producing skills and machinery, an Autocycle was designed and put into production for 1940, but the war intervened, and by 1943 BSA had purchased the company, after only a few had been produced.

After the war, production continued, but the design had been changed; the bikes were heavier and the excellent Villiers ‘Junior De Luxe’ two stroke single speed engine was no longer available, though the new machines were still marketed as New Hudsons.

So this is a rare survivor of the original design, with the uncowled engine, bicycle brakes and large fuel tank, with direct electric lighting and an effective centre stand. The machines were able to deliver 150 miles to a gallon of mixture, and cost just over £20 for a high quality, simple and easy to maintain bike. They would undoubtedly have had a great future had production continued, and post war models, even at nearly £50, sold well.

This very original Autocycle was first registered in Radnorshire on 5 August 1940, (and has a very attractive period registration number) and was in use locally until 1960. Much later it was rebuilt and examined for dating by the VMCC in 1998, since when it was little used before being laid up in 2000. Some easy renovation, hopefully without incurring significant expense will result in a charming and rare period machine. A buff log book from 1946, current V5c, old MoT from 1999, VMCC dating certificate and New Hudson history publication accompany the lot.