Moto-Rêve Model D 354cc 2 cyl ohv 1711

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Description

Moto-Rêve 1913 “Model D” 3 HP 354 cc Overhead valve V-twin   frame # 105830 engine #11843

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 and this fine little machine, weighing only 47 kilos, is an excellent example.
It has bore x stroke dimensions of 53 x 70 mm and the company claimed a top speed of 85 km/h.
This charming OHV veteran still has its original finish on frame and tank and has been partly restored.