FN 1912 498cc 4 cyl

To many enthusiasts the FN four has always been one of the most appealing machines of veteran and vintage times. Its production runs from 1905 till 1926.

The earliest type has a 362 cc engine with atmospheric overhead inlet valves and side exhaust valves. It’s single geared, has shaft drive and the top speed is about 60 km/hour. The FN four is an immediate success and finds customers all over the world; FN sells their machines in more than 40 countries. The Four attracts many customers in the U.S.A. and sparks American interest in the four cylinder concept: Percy Pierce purchases a 1908 model on one of his trips to Europe and the FN becomes a point of reference for the first Pierce Four in 1909.

The engine is redesigned for 1910: new cylinders have twelve fins rather than eleven, the bore is increased to 52.7 mm to give 498 cc, and the exhaust pipes are now attached with two bolts to a flange in contrast to the earlier screw-on pattern. The spark plugs are moved from the top of the cylinders to the right side between the valves. The inlet manifold is substantially revised to site the new carburettor at the left of the engine between cylinders two and three. A nice touch is a fuel filter mounted on the seat tube of the frame. There’s also a new oiling system. The only major change to the cycle parts is a long rebound spring on top of the front forks.

The 1910 model continues unchanged through 1911, but for 1912 there are more detail modifications. A tubular rear carrier and an independent stand replace the veteran-type combined carrier/stand used on the earlier models. The characteristic inverted magneto and separate distributor are replaced by a Bosch ZFN4 upright magneto incorporating a distributor. A clutch and valances on the front guard become available as options. Longer handlebars and a more substantial seat complete the new model. There are two independent brakes on the rear wheel. A lever on the right side of the handlebars actuates the external contracting band; back-pedalling triggers the internal expanding brake.

This single-geared specimen of the charismatic FN Four has been restored with care a number of years ago and has been part of a private collection in Italy. She’s a good runner and comes with Lucas acetylene headlight, bulb horn and various photos and FN four articles etc. Also included are identification cards of FIVA and ASI (Automotoclub Storico Italiano), the Italian Historical Vehicle Society.