Description
Please note: This MX74 is being offered up for sale by the Petersen Automotive Museum located in Los Angeles, California. Iconic Motorbikes is happy to be of assistance in the museum’s efforts to refocus its collections!
Additional photos are available here for your perusal.
Built from the same cloth as the original K17 James Lightweight, the ML 125 was originally created as an alternative transport option for troops during World War II, hence the acronym ‘Military Lightweight’. At the heart of the Famous James was a single-cylinder 125cc 2-stroke engine that required little maintenance and gained some notoriety for its reliability — a must given the extreme environments the bike most often used in.
The single-cylinder made around three horsepower with a top speed of approximately 40mph coming at the top of 3rd gear. Beyond the mill, the ML came standard with a three-speed transmission. The hand shifter that was mounted alongside the fuel tank, keeping it up and away from terrain and debris. All in, the Military Lightweight stayed true to its name, weighing just 175lbs fully laden (with fuel), making it ideal for navigating the countryside that most airborne soldiers would find themselves in.
From the beaches of Normandy to the streets of Europe, the ML 125 was produced for several years post-war, keeping the same model designation. It was eventually exported overseas, and even made its way stateside. Winston Churchill famously described the Military Lightweight as “… a true gift in every sense, a truly historic example of England’s finest motorcycles.”
This example is VIN: ML17852, Engine #: 53919946. The frame stamping appears to read L844. It has been owned by and stored in the Petersen Automotive Museum for the last twenty years.
True mileage is unknown.
Maintenance:
The seller states that they have cleaned the carburetor and fuel lines. It “needs to be tuned but the motor runs.”
Modifications:
Per the seller, this example is stock.
Inside of the tank:
It is riding on tires that have aged out.
Cosmetic Blemishes: please see the album up top for all known cosmetic blemishes. Here is a selection:
Currently located in Los Angeles, California, this James is offered on a Bill of Sale only. Have any ML 125 stories or questions about this listing? Let us know in the “Comments” tab!
