1923 Douglas Model OB/OC 600cc ohv Racer

Extremely rare, early ohv twin-cylinder racing machine; not much else was ohv in '23!  The photos above are period shots from near Melbourne of OB type racers; the rider on the left is L.C. Peterson, the right Ted Reese.  Both were dirt-track racing champs in the area, both bikes are identical and may in fact be the same machine.  Neither one has the Hartford friction damper on the front forks, which may have been added later.  It was surmised by the seller of this bike that my OB is this machine - there aren't many (any?) around to compare with!  CLICK ON ANY PHOTO TO ENLARGE.   Price is $18,000

 

Engine #ED 1017 (1924 OC - 600cc ohv)

Frame #HF 112 (1923 OB)

Gearbox #PG893 (correct for OB - 3 speed Douglas box)

This machine was raced in Australia in the 20's, then laid up in storage.  It was clearly never used on the road after it's career as a racer.  The corrosion is minimal, as it is from a dry climate area.  There are a few bits missing (it raced with no mudguards), which include the front brake pad ass'y, the throttle/clutch/brake lever, the knob for the steering damper, two pushrods, and the engine undermounts (I have a set from my SW5 for reference - simple bar stock with two grooves to fit the frame tubes).  Otherwise the bike is shockingly complete, barring a few odds and ends.  All the carb control fiddly bits are present, even the old throttle cables.  I have the front exh stub and ring which matches the rear. 

The frame bears its original paint, with some dirt and light corrosion.  It could be cleaned up and kept original, as could the petrol tank, on which the original pinstriping and lettering are clearly visible.  The paint is a bit grotty after all these years though.

The seat in the pix is incorrect - I have the proper leather-covered item, which is fairly perished but the frame is fine 

Contact:  Paul d'Orleans   vintagent1@aol.com