A true legend of British motorcycling history took centre stage at H&H Classics’ auction on 26 March 2025, as the 1930 Brough Superior SS100 — built for and ridden by George Brough himself — achieved a remarkable £241,500, soaring £41,500 above its lower estimate and claiming the highest sale price of the day.
This exceptional machine, Frame No. 1030, was specially constructed for George Brough to compete in the prestigious MCC Edinburgh Trial held in June 1930. Tailored to his exact riding preferences, it featured a Bentley & Draper sprung frame, Castle forks, a Sturmey Archer ‘super heavyweight’ gearbox, and a high-set exhaust configuration—likely selected for the rigours of the trial’s rough terrain. Powered by a ‘breathed-on’ 986cc JAP V-twin, the SS100 embodied Brough’s philosophy of combining the finest proprietary components to create a motorcycle of peerless quality and performance.
George Brough, one of the most charismatic and competitive figures in motorcycling, had already established the SS100 as a flagship model with verified 100mph capabilities. Only 21 examples were built in 1930, and this one stands out not just for its rarity, but for its pedigree. The bike carried the works number plate ‘HP 2122’ during the Trial—the same registration that adorned Brough’s first ever machine.
Photographed in period publications, including a famous image by Bill Brunell showing Brough charging uphill beside a stone wall, this machine became part of a winning team in the Inter Club Trial and even featured in a 1930s Continental tour. After World War II, the SS100 passed through a succession of respected collectors before a full restoration by marque specialist Tony Cripps in 1980.
Most recently displayed at the National Motorcycle Museum, it was reluctantly offered for sale to support the museum’s ongoing work. The result was a resounding success, with collectors recognising the machine’s historic value, originality—including its matching JAP engine—and the unmatched provenance of being personally ridden by George Brough.
The sale of ‘JO 1170’ is not only a highlight for H&H Classics, but a defining moment for collectors of pre-war motorcycles, reaffirming the SS100’s status as the ‘Rolls-Royce of Motorcycles’—and this example, the crown jewel.
For more information visit H&H Classics Auction Results.
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