Sunbeam introduced the Sunbeam S8 motorcycle 500cc to the public during 1947. Intended as the group flagship the overhead cam, in line twin cylinder machine was aimed at the discerning tourist. Shaft final drive, full mudguards and balloon tyres combined with plunger rear suspension and telescopic forks helped to ensure that the rider remained comfortable and clean. Consequently the machine struggled to exceed 75mph when tested, comparable to a far cheaper ohv 350cc single resulting in poor sales, which combined with high production costs due to the lack of common components to other machines in the BSA.
A revised model, adopting new forks was introduced during 1949 together with a lighter, more sporting model typed the Sunbeam S8. The S8 reverted to normal section tyres and employed standard BSA forks and front brake. The result was a machine that handled with greater precision and looked lighter, although the outright performance did not change greatly. This example of the S8 is finished in the optional silver grey livery and dates form 1953. More specs and user manual of Sunbeam S8 you can see in next overview.
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