FN Four
1905 FN Four
|
|
| Manufacturer | Fabrique Nationale |
|---|---|
| Production | 1905–1923 |
| Engine | 350-750 cc (max) inlet-over-exhaust with compression release |
| Bore / stroke | 45 mm x 57 mm |
| Power | 5 hp (3.7 kW) (498 cc version) |
| Ignition type | Magneto |
| Transmission | Shaft drive |
| Frame type | Steel duplex cradle |
| Suspension | Front: Bottom-link fork Rear: Rigid |
| Fuel capacity | 1.5 US gal (5.7 l; 1.2 imp gal) |
The FN Four, manufactured in Liége, Belgium by Fabrique Nationale from 1905 until 1923, was the world's first production inline-4 motorcycle. It was also, at 40 miles per hour (64 km/h), the world's fastest production motorcycle from 1911 until 1912.
The motorcycle was developed in 1904, tested late that year, and had its public debut at the 1905 Paris Motorcycle Show. It was a commercial success upon release, with production increasing over its twenty-year run.
The motorcycle was originally single-speed. In 1909, a two-speed transmission was offered, then three-speed in 1914 with the 748 cc engine. It had a single speed shaft drive turned by a bevel gear. The rider started the engine by pedaling bicycle style pedals with a chain drive and sprockets to the rear wheels. The 1905 model had a high-tension Bosch magneto ignition, a spray carburetor, and a rear coaster brake operated by the pedals. It had a 5:1 reduction ratio to 26" wheels.
By 1908, it had a two speed transmission with a plate clutch, overcoming the speed limitations of the earlier model. In 1909 a rear drum brake was fitted. In 1910 engine was redesigned and enlarged to 498 cc (30.4 cu in), the carburetor was moved and a new oiling system was used. The weight in 1910 was 165 lb (75 kg).
For the US market, the 1908 model was upgraded and released as a 1908 1⁄2 model, called the F.N. Big Four. Engine power was raised from 4 1⁄2 hp (3.4 kW) to 5 hp (3.7 kW), the frame size was reduced from 22 to 20 inches (560 to 510 mm) allowing the rider to sit with both feet on the ground, the wheel rims were made heavier and would fit American tire sizes, and it came with tires with a heavier tread.
The 1911 model weighed 185 lb (84 kg) and had a wheelbase of 56 in (1,400 mm). The US model had either Goodrich or another imported brand of tires, and a leather seat made by the Mesinger Bicycle Saddle Company of New York. By 1911 bore × stroke was up to 2 1⁄16 in × 2 1⁄16 in (52 mm × 52 mm) and nominal output was up to 6 hp (4.5 kW).
...
Wikipedia