ABC 1920 398cc 2 cyl ohv 3012

SOLD

Description

ABC 1920 398 cc OHV transverse twin frame # 1337 engine # 1320

The ABC, designed by engineering genius Granville Bradshaw, was definitely years ahead of its time at its birth in 1919: transverse ohv twin, four speed gearbox, cradle frame, front and rear springing, drum brakes, centre stand and incorporated leg shields are a number of the machine’s modern features. A kick-starter, however, was seen as surplus to requirements because the machine was easily push-started.
From April 1920 it was available as an option, though.
Bradshaw produced a prototype of the machine within 3 weeks; the Sopwith aviation company produced the machine in an effort to keep the 3,500 strong workforce employed when the need for aircraft had diminished strongly after the end of the war in 1918.
Originally the selling price was set to £70, soon a price of £ 160 became realistic and later it turned out that any price under £300 was bringing a loss to the manufacturer.
So the price had to become too high, customers turned away and in 1921 the Sopwith factory closed down, after a production run of only 11 months and some 3,300 machines.
The ABC has bore x stroke of 69 x 54mm and is fitted with Claudel-Hobson carburettor and 26 x 2 ½ tyres.
According to the brochure the 2 ¼ gallon tank capacity is equivalent to about 250 miles.
Interesting ABC information can be found via ttps://www.abcroadmotors.co.uk/history.html?showall=&start=3
This innovative design machine is an older restoration in good condition.
She’s fitted with the electric lighting that was available as an extra and with a comfortable Brooks saddle.