1911 FN 493cc Four

• Pioneering Veteran-era four-cylinder motorcycle
• Acquired as a project in 2009
• Restored over the next 10 years
• Fitted with the rare Horstmann gearbox

Like BSA, La Fabrique Nationale d'Armes de Guerre ('FN', for short) began as a munitions manufacturer, turning to the production of motorcycles in 1900. Today the Belgian company is best remembered for its sensational four-cylinder models, the first of which appeared in 1904 and was first exhibited publicly at the 1905 Paris Cycle Show. Designed by Paul Kelecom, the FN was the world's first practical four-cylinder motorcycle, its smooth, almost-vibrationless operation setting it apart from rival singles and v-twins. Advanced for its day, the 362cc air-cooled four featured 'atmospheric' inlet and mechanical (side) exhaust valves, a robust five-bearing crankshaft, individual crankcase oil wells ensuring adequate lubrication for the connecting rods, and reliable Bosch magneto ignition. Shaft final drive was another innovation. Supported on ball bearings, the driveshaft ran inside the right-hand frame member to a bevel gear on the rear axle. At first there was no clutch, the direct-drive machine being started by pedalling away until the engine fired. Two brakes (drum and rim-type) both operated on the rear wheel. The engine was enlarged (to 410cc) in 1906 and again in 1910, on this occasion to 498cc, and in 1911 the factory introduced its own two-speed transmission, similar to that already offered by Horstmann in Britain, which was contained within the drive-shaft housing.

Responding to demands from sidecarists for more power, FN introduced a 748cc, 7hp four – the Type 700 – for 1914. This new engine was a sidevalve of 'T'-head layout, with mechanically operated valves and a mechanical oil pump, which drove the three-speed gearbox via a steel, multi-plate clutch. Pedal starting was dispensed with on the Type 700, a kick-start mechanism being added at the right-hand side of the engine. The Type 700 had not been in production long before the FN works was seized by the invading German Army in the autumn of 1914. The occupying Germans used the FN factory to manufacture ammunition while continuing production of the Type 700, which had a top speed of around 45mph and was widely used by despatch riders. The model remained in production up to 1923 when it was replaced by a new IOE four featuring overhead inlet valves. Chain drive was adopted soon after.

This wonderful FN Four was purchased by our vendor as a dismantled project from a Mr J Harris of Surrey on 16th September 2009; it was in a dilapidated and rusty condition but found to be remarkably complete, including original tools and a rare Horstmann gearbox. The FN had belonged for many years to Mr Arthur Freakes of Walton-on-Thames, Surrey (see sheet in history file re previous owners).

The engineer owner has completely rebuilt the FN mechanically and cosmetically, including doing some of the nickel plating himself (the balance by a professional plater, and all in the correct semi-dull finish). The owner has been careful to preserve the originality of the machine with great attention to detail, including careful repair of the saddle bag using the original leather. A kickstart has been fitted per the 1911 specification; however, the engine has also been modified for a 'pull start' on the flywheel. Before fitting the engine into the frame it was run while strapped to the owner's lathe bed. Since its installation in the frame the engine has been started and sounds wonderful.

A spare engine complete with flywheel and working magneto is included in the sale together with a spare crankshaft, camshaft, and other parts. Last run in March 2023, the machine is offered with an Indian Riders MC dating letter; photocopied Horstmann technical literature; photocopied 1913 catalogue and parts list; restorer's technical drawings; and a V5C registration document.