c.1910 FN 247cc Single

Frame no. 31445 Engine no. 1470

Footnotes

• An older restoration

• Acquired in 1985

• Formerly resident in France

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 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 Variable-pulley transmission had been introduced on the belt-driven singles in 1907 but would be superseded by shaft drive in 1910, its introduction coinciding with that of the two-speed gearbox.

A beautifully detailed older restoration, this FN single was acquired 1985, as indicated by French export documents on file. Notable features include a WB headlamp and 'A Godifron, Pepinster' supplier's plaque. The machine also comes with a quantity of photocopied literature and a selection of photographs including some showing it undergoing restoration.


• Ancienne restauration

• Acquise en 1985

• En provenance de France

Anciennement restaurée jusqu'aux moindres détails, cette FN a été acquise en 1985 comme le précisent les documents d'exportation français qui figurent au dossier. On notera la présence d'un phare WB et d'une plaquette du fournisseur « A. Gpdifron, Pepinster ». Cette machine est accompagnée d'une documentation photocopiée et d'une sélection de photos dont une partie illustre les travaux de restauration.


It should be noted that these vehicles have either been on display in the museum or kept in store since Peter and Ulrike passed away. Their present mechanical condition is not known; accordingly, perspective bidders must satisfy themselves with regards to their condition, completeness, correctness, or otherwise prior to bidding.

On notera que depuis le décès de Peter et d'Ulrike ces véhicules ont été maintenus en exposition dans le musée ou entreposés. L'état actuel réel des mécaniques est inconnu et les éventuels acquéreurs devront s'assurer par eux-mêmes de la condition, de l'intégrité, de l'authenticité et autres points relatifs à la qualité des machines avant de porter leurs enchères.