Can you identify this bike??

[scuzz]

[33d6]

Yes, this is a James from the very early 50's. There isn't enough clear detail to say exactly what model but probably a Captain or Cadet and faintly possible it may be an early competition version.
The engine is either the 122cc 10D Villiers, (the Cadet) or the 197cc 6E Villiers (the Captain). They are very similar so it is difficult to tell which it is in the photo.
It has either had an alloy front guard fitted or it could be a competition version. It also appears to have a trials tyre of the time fitted to the front wheel. The early comp version was merely a slightly lightened road bike and an owner could do that as easily as the factory so it is difficult to tell.
The headlight appears to be that used for the minimal direct lighting circuit so is easily removable. This circuit has no battery and a stop light was not a standard fitting so was favoured by clubmen. This way they could have a bike to ride to work during the week but easily convert it for competition at the weekend.
This model Jimmy was well loved by many riders. It was cheap to buy, cheap to run and a fun bike to ride.
Can you tell us the history behind the photo? It's always interesting to know the background story.
Cheers, Bob

[scuzz]

Many thanks Bob and much respect to you for your knowledge of bikes.

This photo was posted on IXXRA (Blackbird riders association) by one of our members who wanted to know what the bike was and I thought I would try and do some research myself, it seems I found the right man to identify it.

I've posted your reply on our site along with a link to here.

No doubt they will be in touch with more info on this bike.

Thanks
Dave

[Ladybird]

Thank you so much for your help  

Infact the rider of this bike is my mother, I'm so proud of her.  She used to ride competitively in trials, and my father used to ride trials, sand racing and scrambles, obviously my mother being pit support, for most of the events  

I am absolutely thrilled to find out what motorcycle it was....bad news for yourself is I have a full album of bikes used in competition, it seems that my father used to swop tanks, to keep the originals in good nick, so I have no logos to go on....I will try and find out more about the history of this particular bike, it was fairly obviously a favourite of my mothers...

[33d6]

Hi Ladybird,
Delighted to hear the story and equally delighted to hear there may be some more photos appearing. I don't guarantee to be as precise every time.
I have a very soft spot for ancient lightweights and Villiers two-strokes in particular so this one was just made for me.
Cheers, Bob