Description
Moto Rêve 1906 “2 HP” 275cc automatic inlet valve V-twin frame # 1043BSA engine # 254
The Moto Rêve (“dream motorcycle“) was made in Geneva, Switzerland, and had many features in common with its main competitor in that city, Motosacoche. The first model was presented to the public in May 1906. Within a few years the finely engineered little twin became well known in many European countries; there was even a representative in Australia. At the London Stanley Show in November 1907 a Moto Rêve engined machine was displayed at the Norton stand under the name “Energette”. Soon a British company started to mount Swiss engines into British rolling chassis, to overcome the problems that had arisen with Bowden patents. The Moto Rêves were equipped with Bowden wires that were not protected by patents in Switzerland. There were a number of differences between the Swiss and English models, for example the frames were different. Moto Rêve built ohv singles and V- twins already before the Great War. After 1914 not much was heard of the firm, although it existed into the 1920s.
This very early model is probably one of the oldest survivors of the make and has been excellently restored. The finely engineered little twin has bore x stroke of 50x70mm and the engine with carburettor and Bosch magneto weighs a mere 12 kilos. The magneto advance lever is placed on top of the frame tube and the exhaust valve lifter is operated by a lever on the left side of the adjustable handlebars. Sprung front forks are fitted and this elegant Dream Motorcycle comes with Persons saddle and Lucas Silver King oil lamp.