1959 Royal Enfield 693cc Constellation Frame no. 7859 Engine no. SMPA5214

1959 Royal Enfield 693cc Constellation Registration no. WLL 667 Frame no. 7859 Engine no. SMPA5214 Like BSA and Triumph before it, Royal Enfield went on to enlarge its 500cc twin, eclipsing its rivals with the 700cc Meteor, Britain's largest vertical twin at the time of its introduction for 1953. The crankcase remained fundamentally unchanged but the bore/stroke dimensions and engine top-end were those of the 350 Bullet, doubled up and restyled. Extensive revisions to the engine and the adoption of a new frame (shared by the Bullet singles) ushered in the Super Meteor in the autumn of 1955. Maximum power went up to 40bhp and top speed increased to just exceed the magic 'ton'. While the Super Meteor was a fine performer, Enfield's next development - the Constellation - was outstanding. Based on its immediate predecessor, the new sportster featured a 51bhp engine, revised frame and a handsome 4.25-gallon fuel tank. On test with Motor Cycling magazine in Belgium, a Constellation recorded a top speed of 115mph while averaging 51mpg, impressive figures by any standard. Little is known of this Constellation's history prior to its purchase by our vendor in August 2014, since when it has been dry stored. Recommissioning to a greater or lesser or extent will be required before the machine returns to the road and thus it is sold strictly as viewed (the engine turns over). Offered with a V5C document. Key not required Footnotes: 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. REQUEST A TRANSPORT QUOTE Please click the link to request a transport quote from our recommended transport company, Moving Motorcycles. To request a UK or European shipping quote - Moving Motorcycles To request an International shipping quote - Shippio Lot to be sold without reserve. For further information on this lot please visit Bonhams.com For further information about this lot please visit the lot listing