THE MARCO ANTONIO COLLECTION uilt by the James Cycle Company of Birmingham, England, this rare and comprehensively restored 1932 James Model D2 Grey Ghost is among the more unique, though no less significant, British motorcycles in history. Its flagship model for 1932, the D2 Grey Ghost, was a small-production model from the James Cycle Co., with only around 600 having ever been made, a few remaining during a transitional time for the company. By 1935, its line of 4-stroke twins, which included the side-valve D2 grey Ghost and its OHV sibling, the D1 Flying Ace, was discontinued as the company shifted its focus towards more lightweight 2-stroke machines. Still, the company is a legacy brand in the United Kingdom, with deep roots in the industry and a rich history of milestones that rival any other influential brand. Established in 1880 by Harry (Henry William) James, the James Cycle Company began making penny-farthing bicycles and quickly became one of the most prominent manufacturers. In 1902, engineer Frank Kimberly was hired, and the company introduced its first motorcycles. Over the following two decades, James motorcycles stood as a pioneer in the industry with innovations like side-valve engine designs, V-twins, 3-speed gearboxes and a production overhead-valve V-twin—nearly a decade ahead of manufacturers in America. By the 1930s, James had firmly established itself as an industry leader with a pair of powerful 499cc V-twin models. The side-valve-powered Grey Ghost earned its nickname from its sleek silver-gray finish, a design choice that emphasized elegance and sophistication during the austerity of the Great Depression. It features a compact yet punchy 499cc side-valve V-twin and 3-speed hand-shifted gearbox. A sprung girder fork is joined by a pair of sprung leather saddles for rider and passenger, while front and rear chrome spoked wheels, each with drum brakes, ensure a smooth, effortless ride. Celebrated for its robust construction, smooth handling and ease of maintenance, the James Grey Ghost was a favorite among commuters and novice motorcyclists alike. However, in the mid-1930s, James eliminated the V-twins from its range and played a crucial role in popularizing lightweight bikes, a segment democratizing motorcycling during a time when affordability was paramount. Though James eventually ceased production in the 1960s, its contributions during the 1930s—epitomized by the Model D2 Grey Ghost—remain a notable chapter in the history of motorcycling, and given its low production volume, the model has become a cherished item among collectors and enthusiasts alike. S175 1932 James Model D2 Grey Ghost
