Formerly the property of the late Ken Blake, 1912 Arno 3½hp

• Ultra-rare Coventry-built Veteran
• One of an estimated three of four survivors
• Purchased directly from Ken Blake
• Present ownership since 2014
• Pioneer Run participant
• Fascinating history file with correspondence dating from 1959

The vendor's father purchased this ultra-rare Arno motorcycle from respected restorer/collector and VMCC stalwart, the late Ken Blake, in August 2014. The Arno had been on display at the world-famous Sammy Miller Museum and was picked up directly from there.

The Arno brand originated in Coventry, initially occupying premises in Gosford Street before later moving to Hill Cross. The company built its first motorcycles in 1906. There is some debate regarding its founder, with opinions divided between Arno Starmer and George William Hammon. A report on Arno's exhibit at the Stanley Show, published in The Motor Cycle magazine in November 1908, states: "Mr Hammon, who is responsible for the design and production of this Arno machine, was also the maker of Clarendon motor bicycles, a number of which are still running and giving every satisfaction to their owners."

The Arno model exhibited at the 1908 Stanley Show was a single-cylinder machine, powered by the firm's own 3½hp engine with bore and stroke dimensions of 90x85mm (540cc). At the 1909 Stanley Show, two models were presented: the Speed model and the Modéle de Luxe, both fitted with the 3½hp engine. The Speed model, the lighter of the two, had rigid forks, a shorter wheelbase, and no pedals, while the Modéle de Luxe featured sprung forks and was sold complete with a luggage carrier, stand, and number plate. Both models had a belt-rim brake and a Bowden band brake. Additionally, a lady's model was available. In 1910, Arno's range remained largely the same as the previous year's, with a redesigned fuel tank but retaining the single-speed belt-drive transmission. Production of Arno motorcycles appears to have ended around 1915. There is also evidence that Arno supplied kits of parts for assembly in Australia, as the 'Western Star' motorcycle closely resembles a Veteran-era Arno.

One of an estimated three or four surviving examples, the Arno offered here features the optional Sturmey Archer three-speed hub and clutch. According to HPI records, it was previously registered as 'J 413' and painted grey. A fascinating collection of 1959 letters is included in the history file, relating to an appeal made by then-owner Mr. C. M. Lane of Downton, Salisbury, in Motorcycle News, April 1959. This includes correspondence with The Sunbeam Motor Cycle Club regarding dating the machine, as well as letters from Bob Edmunds & Co., Coventry, Joe Greer, and Mr. R. A. Carter, who had owned an Arno in period and had a spare engine for one in 1959. Also included is a letter from Colin Jenner, who owns another regularly campaigned example.

Having successfully completed two Pioneer Runs under its current ownership, this handsome and ultra-rare Veteran motorcycle was last ridden in 2022. It is offered with the aforementioned history file, a 2008 Pioneer Certificate and a V5C document. Key not required.
Key not required