Description Douglas 1924 “SW/24” 349 cc side valve twin frame # 75255 engine # 85099 video: https://youtu.be/p0AtcAdHB0w This Bristol-based firm develops the horizontally opposed fore-aft unit in about 1907 and continues to utilize this engine layout well into the thirties. The earliest Douglas models have direct belt drive, but in 1910 a two-speed gearbox is added, with the control handle on top of the petrol tank. Douglas machines become very popular because of their lightness, ease of starting and speed: in the 1912 Junior TT races Douglas takes first, second and fourth places. In the First World War thousands of 2 ¾ HP machines are commissioned for use by despatch riders and perform splendidly. In the early twenties year by year small improvements are made and in a publicity booklet announcing the 1924 models the company claims that “well over 75,000 Douglas 2 ¾ machines are giving satisfaction every day to their owners.” The company sees no need for big design changes: “ For many years now it has not been found necessary to alter the main design, which incorporated the vibrationless twin-cylinder engine, because, as a mount world famous for economy, ease of control and great comfort, it had withstood the buffeting and battering of every clime since 1908, under all conditions, in the hands of riders of both sexes and all ages.” It will be two more years before a real design change is carried through by then Chief designer Cyril Pullin in the form of the new EW model. The 1924 catalogue presents three side valve models in the 350 cc class. The most basic one, at a price of £45, is the TS, that has two speeds and no clutch or kick starter, so it has to be pushed to get going, which, incidentally, is very easy. The SW also has two speeds, but comes with the luxury of a clutch, a kick starter and comfortable footboards, for a price of £50. The most expensive model is the CW, with chain drive, 3-speed and kick starter. This machine is available at £58. New for 1924, but not fitted to the TS, are the wide mudguards “giving ample protection with plenty of clearance to prevent clogging in heavy country. “ The machine we present has been registered in The Netherlands since 1992. She’s an older restoration that comes with P & H bulb horn and acetylene lighting system. A further interesting accessory is the exhaust whistle, connected to the exhaust of the rear cylinder. The kick starter and clutch make for a relaxed ride. The 1926 engine number suggest that at some time in the past a slightly younger crankcase has been fitted. This well-presented Douglas is all ready for the road but she will need running in since recently new pistons have been fitted.
