Description
Raleigh 1930 model “MO-30 2.98 h.p.” 298 cc side valve Sturmey Archer frame # 119529 engine # PSFO 132
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 and OHV singles were put on the market and these economical, well made machines- equipped with S.A engine and gearbox- proved to be great sellers.
From 1930 dry sump lubrication became available and in 1931 sloping cylinders and chromium plated tanks appeared.
The model range for 1930 consisted of 5 models ranging from a 225 cc side valve machine to a 500 cc overhead valve sports mount.
The MO-30 was the one but lightest model of the range.
The engine has longstroke dimensions of 65.6 x 88 mm and the machine is fitted with two separate petrol tank halves that give the visual effect of a single saddle tank.
This practical lightweight late vintage machine has been restored a number of years ago and comes complete with acetylene front lamp, generator and bulb horn.