Lot 410: c.1951 Douglas 348cc MkV

‘The popular model in the specialist range of 350cc machines, the Mark ‘V’ represents one of the most highly developed models in the Industry and has no rival for the motor-cyclist who needs efficiency, comfort, reliability and prefect road-holding.’ – Douglas (Sales & Service) Ltd. Douglas’s one-model range was improved by legendary racer/designer Freddie Dixon for 1948, re-emerging in revised form as the ‘MkIII’. The latter featured new cylinder heads and a stronger frame, while 1950 saw the introduction of the interim MkIV model with its distinctive triangular toolboxes, frame-mounted pillion footrests and un-sprung front mudguard. The arrival of the 80 Plus and 90 Plus sports roadsters led to the preceding ‘standard’ and ‘sports’ distinctions being dropped, the ‘standard’ roadster becoming the ‘MkV’ in November 1950. Production ceased with the Dragonfly’s introduction for 1955. The vendor advises us that this MkV benefits from an reconditioned magneto. The kick-start however, is broken and needs attention, and as a result it has not been possible to re-time the ignition. Restored approximately ten years ago and sold strictly as viewed, the machine is offered with old-style logbook and Swansea V5 registration document.