Description
Raleigh 1924 399 cc side valve “ 3 HP Model 5” frame#14548 engine# 12578
In the beginning of the 20th century Raleigh’s main business was in the cycle trade.
Company founder Frank Bowden was a firm believer in variable gear systems and from the end of 1902 the Raleigh Cycle company put the Sturmey-Archer cycle hub gear on the market.
There was some motorcycle production between 1899 and 1906, but only after the first world war some serious thought was given again to motorcycle production.
In the early twenties a 699 cc flat twin was produced; from 1922 mostly single cylinder side valve singles were put on the market and these economical, well made machines proved to be great sellers.
The 1924 range consisted of nine models in 348, 399 and 798 cubic capacities.
The model on offer has bore x stroke of 76 x 88 mm which makes it a 3 HP wirh 399 cc. cubic capacity.
Tyre size is 26 x 2 ½ .
The machine weighs 211 pounds and is equipped with Sturmey Archer 3 speed gear, multiplate dry clutch, Brampton Biflex type front forks and AMAC carburetor.
This nice and easily controllable vintage machine is an older restoration that is in excellent shape.