LOT 218

The John Hobbs Collection c.1909 FN 247cc Single Registration no. not registered Frame no. 30068 Engine no. none visible

Sold for £4,025 inc. premiumLot to be sold without reserve

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Lot 218

The John Hobbs Collection, c.1909 FN 247cc Single

The Autumn Stafford Sale – The Classic Motorcycle Mechanics Show|14 October 2023, 10:30 BST|Stafford, Staffordshire County Showground

The John Hobbs Collection
c.1909 FN 247cc Single
Registration no. not registered
Frame no. 30068
Engine no. none visible

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. Today the Belgian company is best known for its sensational four-cylinder models, the first of which appeared in 1905. In 1900 the firm's first powered two-wheeler had been produced by mounting a clip-on engine in 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 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 Variable-pulley transmission had been introduced on the belt-driven singles in 1907 but would be superseded by shaft drive in 1910, its introduction coinciding with that of the two-speed gearbox.

This FN single is believed to be a 247cc model. The frame and mudguards have been repainted; however, the wheel rims and tank appear to be either unrestored or a much older restoration. The handlebars are painted silver; the engine cases are overpainted; the carburettor, magneto and some controls are missing; and the oiling system is disconnected. A good basis for restoration, there are no documents with this Lot. Prospective bidders must satisfy themselves as to the condition, completeness, correctness, date and suitability of the machine's component parts prior to bidding.

Footnotes

All lots are sold 'as is/where is' and Bidders must satisfy themselves as to the provenance, condition, age, completeness and originality prior to bidding.

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