1922 Rudge 499cc Multi IoM TT Model
Registration no. PP 27
Frame no. 808937
Engine no. 25212
The history of this outstandingly original Rudge Multi is known virtually from new. 'PP 27' was built on 28th July 1922 and sold to its first owner on 23rd March 1923. The accompanying continuation buff logbook dating from April 1925 shows the owner as Mr William Harrowell. It is entirely possible that he was the first owner. Regardless, Mr Harrowell kept the Rudge taxed until December 1927 (this final tax disc is still displayed in the holder) whereupon he wheeled it into a barn on his farm, This was the last time 'PP 27' was used on the road until 2013. Thus the Rudge has been used for only four of the last 91 years.
The Rudge remained in the barn until 1951 when it was sold to Lt Col W D C Cook, JP. Meticulously maintained, as befitting a man of his military background, it was kept in good running order (obviously off the road, its owner being a JP!) until, after 33 years ownership, the Colonel decided to part with it. The Rudge was offered for sale at the Beaulieu auction on 16th July 1984 and purchased by the current vendor, who has gently tended it for some 30-odd years. MoT'd and taxed in 2013, the Multi is ready for its fifth year of use.
'Hardly run in', a phrase often used but rarely accurate, can truthfully be said of this IoM TT Model Rudge Multi. Ridden extensively this last year, the Multi is again running beautifully. With its original Rudge celluloid still on all the right parts, original nickel plating, and the original finish on the fuel tank, it is difficult to find a nut or bolt that was not on this gentleman's conveyance when it left the Coventry factory.
'PP 27' comes with a dating letter from Rudge marque specialist Bryan Reynolds confirming that everything is as it left the factory in 1922; a note from Lt Col W D C Cook, JP concerning the starting procedure; the aforementioned 1925 logbook and 1927 tax disc; the 1984 auction catalogue; a recently expired MoT (April 2014); current tax disc; and V5C registration document. The machine is only being sold because the vendor also owns a Veteran-era Rudge Multi.
Saleroom notices
- This machine was purchased by the current vendor in April 2013. At the time it had no current V5C. He subsequently had the motorcycle re-registered with the original registration number.
