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FN 285T project, c.1920. Registration number, not registered...

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Hammer

£5,300

Fees

FN 285T project, c.1920. Registration number, not registered. Frame number 46915. Engine number unknown.
Like BSA, La Fabrique Nationale d'Armes de Guerre ('FN' for short) began as a munitions manufacturer, turning to the production of motorcycles around 1900. Best known for its sensational four-cylinder models, the first of which appeared in 1905, the Belgian company demonstrated the same innovative spirit in the design of its singles being among the first to adopt unitary construction of engine and gearbox, permitting the use of geared primary drive. FN produced both chain- and shaft-driven bicycles and soon applied the latter transmission system to its motorcycles. In 1900 the firm's first powered two-wheeler was produced by mounting a clip-on engine to a bicycle frame, and in December the following year the first production model arrived powered by a 133cc single-cylinder engine. FN's single-cylinder models evolved gradually, growing in size firstly to 188cc and then 224cc, before arriving at 285cc in 1913 by which the atmospheric inlet valve had given way to a mechanically-operated one. Variable-pulley transmission had been introduced on the belt-driven singles in 1907 but would be superseded by shaft drive in 1910, its introduction coinciding with that of the two-speed gearbox.
In 1912 the capacity was enlarged to 285 cc by enlarging the stroke to 85 mm and the frame was changed, resulting in a longer and lower machine.
When production was resumed after the war the side -by- side valve concept was changed to inlet-over- exhaust and the machine got a kick starter.
Production ended in 1922.
The early history of this example is unknown although it wears the suppliers badge of Hackford Motors, 32 Acre Lane and Cold Harbour Lane, Brixton, London. Our vendor acquired it from a family friend who said it had been with them since the 1930's, we cannot substantiate this. It appears to be in very original condition including the tyres, it is lacking the rear stand.
There is no paperwork with this lot and according to the VMCC marque specialist he would date it at November/December 1920. Buyers should satisfy themselves as to the completeness of the machine.

More Information

Hi, the carb is on the bike, please look at the images

Closed
Auction Date: 16th Oct 2021 at 1pm

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Sale Dates:
16th Oct 2021 1pm (Lots 501 to 663)

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