This Lea Francis was previously owned by Robert Derrick, whose company Classic Transfers makes replica decals for early motorcycles. Robert passed away and the company is now run by his grandson Adam. Robert “…had a lifelong obsession with all things vintage, motorcycles, steam trains, canal boats and canals, and trad jazz” also owned a 1912 Lea Francis motorcycle, which led him to acquire this bicycle. However, he never got round to restoring it.
The front brake is not a Lea Francis item, though the rear brake is correct. The saddle is damaged, though it’s a very rare one so I’ve left it on the bike. The small knob on top of the gear trigger is missing. The gear is a rare Lea Francis 2-speed, using the Griffin patent. These were superseded by 3-speed gears soon after, so are quite rare. It needs a service. The trip motion was missing and, as you can see in the video, my friend made one for me. The machine is a bit scruffy but rides and stops okay and it would not take much to finish it off. I’ve left that for the new owner to do.
View in the Online Bicycle Museum
BICYCLE COLLECTORS CURATED ONLINE AUCTION, Spring 2026
This Timed Auction is live from 21st of March 2026 @ 2-30pm to 4th of April, 2026. Highest bid wins.
NO BUYERS or SELLERS PREMIUM.
THE RESERVE IS THE START PRICE + BUY-IT-NOW OPTION.
INTERNATIONAL DELIVERY: NO PACKING FEES.
BIDDING INCREMENTS: Up to £1000 = £10. Over £1000 = £50. Over £2000 = £100
IT’S A CURATED AUCTION – Colin is the auctioneer and is available to chat to you personally during the auction (or before) by email, text message, phone call, Facebook Messenger or WhatsApp.
