A gem from the post-war era - the Sunbeam S7 with sidecar from 1949
The Sunbeam S7 with sidecar from 1949 is a real gem in terms of motorcycle history. Designed by Erling Poppe, and one of the best-known models from the British manufacturer Sunbeam, the A7 is big on innovation and style.
| Cylinders | 2 |
| Mileage (km) | 21706 |
| Engine size | 500 |
| Performance (kW/hp) | 25 |
| First registration date | 1949 |
| Vehicle condition | 2 |
With its muscular appearance, featuring the distinctive teardrop-shaped fuel tank and carefully sculpted sidecar, the Sunbeam has a powerful but elegant outline.
When the Sunbeam S7 was launched, it was one of the most technically advanced machines of its time. The all-aluminium two-cylinder inline engine, with overhead camshaft and a shaft drive to the rear wheel, ensured an even distribution of power. The early S7 was expensive and over-engineered, which makes it the most sought-after of the S series these days and is why it commands high prices from fans.
The original colour choice was Mist Green or Black. For the export market, BSA delivered Sunbeams in every colour from its range.
Our auction vehicle with sidecar was first registered in September 1949. We assume it ended up in Switzerland some years later, where it was fully restored in 1987 and effectively rebuilt. The original Mist Green paintwork was retained. The S7 is in very good condition, as is the sidecar. The sidecar is quick and easy to detach, so the bike can be ridden in the normal way – by just the rider or with a pillion set-up.
The engine and gears had an overhaul from one of Switzerland's best Sunbeam specialists in 2010. The bike was subsequently registered as a veteran vehicle in 2016 and was also converted to a 12 V arrangement. An exceptional bike and sidecar combination, but very much representative of the early post-war period in England. Lots of new technical solutions were being implemented, and the S7’s two-cylinder inline engine would certainly count as one of these.
The new owner will be handed lots of documentation about the overhaul, as well as a manual and service history. A genuine rarity is looking for a new rider.
