The John Hobbs Collection, c.1913 FN Four Frame no. 51362 Engine no. 1605A

The John Hobbs Collection c.1913 FN Four Registration no. not registered Frame no. 51362 Engine no. 1605A •The world's first practical four-cylinder motorcycle •Offered for restoration •Unregistered 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. The FN was the world's first practical four-cylinder motorcycle, its smooth, almost vibration-free 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 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 498cc in 1910. 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. An earlier restoration (date unknown), this FN Four features a highly polished tank, while some of the plated parts are chrome rather than nickel. A kickstart is fitted, but one grip and its control are missing. There are no documents with this Lot. Requiring restoration to a greater or lesser extent, 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. Lot to be sold without reserve. For further information on this lot please visit Bonhams.com