1927 Brough Superior Overhead 680
photo: bonhams
With the SS80 and SS100 well established by the mid-1920s, George Brough decided to add a smaller and cheaper alternative to these two 1-litre models to the range. J A Prestwich was already producing a 674cc sidevalve v-twin engine and this unit, redesigned to accommodate overhead valves, went into Brough's new 'Overhead 680'. First shown to the public at the Olympia Motorcycle Show in 1926, the 'Miniature SS100', as George Brough called it, entered production for 1927. The new middleweight Brough was an instant success and for the 1930 season was joined by a version to higher specification. First seen at the 1929 Motorcycle Show, the newcomer was dubbed 'Black Alpine 680', a reference to the lavishly equipped SS100 Alpine Grand Sports and the fact that the newcomer boasted a distinctive all-black eggshell finish. Principal mechanical difference from the standard Overhead 680 was the adoption of the patented Draper sprung frame.
photo: bonhams
This early, Vintage-era Overhead 680 was purchased in 1955 (for £40!) by the vendor's late father. It was attached to a Milford sidecar and the owner passed his test on the Brough combination. The modified chainguard, revised oiling system, and replacement gearbox were already in place at time of purchase, while the vendor painted the castle image on the tank some 10-15 years ago.
In the 1970s the machine completed several Banbury Runs, winning many awards (see contemporary photographs on file). 'RR 7112' has been restored at various times during the family's 64-year ownership, and was last taxed to the end of February 1990. The Brough retains matching frame and engine numbers, and is offered for restoration. Last run circa 10 years ago and sold strictly as viewed, this potentially most rewarding project is offered with BSOC correspondence, a photocopied old-style V5 registration document, and a copy of its Works Record Card.
