1957 CLIPPER £1400

The Clipper was Enfield’s initial post-war 250cc. Introduced for 1954, it aimed to fill the gap between the lightweight two-strokes and the 350cc Bullet. The engine was based on the earlier Model G 350cc, with reduced bore and stroke, and was fitted into a frame with the same swingarm design found on the Bullet. A 350cc (Model G dimensioned) version was also made to provide a cheaper option to the sporty 350cc Bullet. A rigid-framed budget version of the 250cc known as the Model S is a rarity, made only briefly. The Clippers were solid and dependable, if utilitarian, and this lack of image, along with engine size, has kept prices down in the past; I wondered if that was still true.

“Yes, though they’re definitely gaining popularity,” nods Allan. “The trouble with that is that it’s not viable to make new parts, like mudguards, which are hard to find. You can spend as much building a Clipper as a Bullet but you may not get your money back if you sell. But, if you just want to build an easy-to-live-with classic for riding, a Clipper makes a good buy.”