1931 Gillet-Herstal 350cc Supersport

Registration no. YSL 939 Frame no. 71307 Engine no. 71307

Alongside FN and Saroléa, Gillet was one of Belgium's three main motorcycle manufacturers, all of which were situated near the town of Herstal. FN and Saroléa had been around for 20-or-so years before Desire Gillet and his son Leon founded Société Anonyme des Ateliers Gillet in 1919, adding 'Herstal' to the company name to differentiate it from the French René Gillet concern. The fledgling firm soon established a reputation for original design and sound engineering, which was further enhanced when Robert Sexé rode a two-stroke Gillet-Herstal around the world. Gillet-Herstal's four-stroke models likewise were of very high quality, the firm being amongst the pioneers of unitary construction of the engine/gearbox, as on this stunning example. Gillet-Herstal's overhead-valve unitary construction sports, supersports and competition models were at the peak of high-performance motorcycle design in their day. This matching-numbers example was treated to a 'last nut and bolt' restoration by the present owner in 2001. The cycle parts were blast-cleaned, and powder coated; the wheels rebuilt with new bearings and stainless spokes; the steering head bearings replaced; all brightwork re-plated; the magneto rewound; and new tyres and chains fitted. In addition, the engine and gearbox were overhauled, the cylinder head being rebuilt by The Cylinder Head Shop. Last run in 2019, the machine is described by the private vendor as in excellent condition. Accompanying documentation and much useful literature may be found in the comprehensive history file (inspection recommended).