Having originally manufactured bicycles in the late nineteenth century, Sunbeam, in common with many bicycle makers of the period, metamorphosed into motorcycle manufacturing under the guidance of John Marston. After an initial flirtation with the idea of motor car production, it was decided that powered two-wheeled transport was the future. Motor cycle manufacture commenced around 1912 with the quality of finish which had become the hallmark of their bicycle creations. Their entry into the market was innovative, featuring a two-speed countershaft gearbox, a lever operated clutch, and enclosed primary and final drives via chains.

The early machines acquitted themselves with honour in competition, albeit without exceptional distinction prior to the Great War. Between the wars, however, in the skilled hands of exponents such as Alec Bennett, Charles Dodson and the legendary rider and tuner George Dance, Sunbeam advanced their reputation in leaps and bounds, both in trials and road racing. With victories in the Senior TT in 1920, 1922, 1928 and 1929, racing success created greater demand for their products and by the early thirties Sunbeam were lauded as producers of one of the 'quality' sporting machines of the day.

Purchased by the vendor in 2007, 792 UXN had been restored by the immediately preceding owner during 2005 to 2007. The magdyno had been reconditioned, as had the carburettor. The engine had been rebuilt with new valve seats (the exhaust one to suit unleaded fuel), new valves and guides, new oil pump gears, the cylinder barrel re-bored and new piston fitted. The front forks were re-bushed with new spindles, and the whole machine was repainted. A new twin exhaust system, both pipes and silencers were sourced and fitted.

Following acquisition, the owner used the Sunbeam every year, although the amount of use has dwindled in recent years. The machine has required only normal maintenance plus a few minor jobs, benefiting from a new chain and a tap on the oil supply line to prevent wet-sumping. A Smiths clock was fitted to the petrol tank panel. In 2009 the magneto failed and was reconditioned by FTW. The rear stand broke, but the owner has obtained a new rear stand which he intends to have fitted in time for the sale. This handsome twin-port single should be capable of use by the new owner with only normal maintenance. One unusual feature of the machine is the three-speed Sturmey Archer gearbox. This modification is not uncommon, both in period and since, in an attempt to improve gearchanges.

Accompanying paperwork consists of a V5C document; expired MoTs, a list of restoration work carried out by the previous owner, the vendor's purchase receipt together with sundry invoices and receipts relating to the restoration work.