Royal Enfield 1914 6 HP Model 180 770 cc JAP sv 3610

Royal Enfield 1914 6 HP “Model 180“ 770 cc JAP side valve V–twin frame # 7556

video: https://youtu.be/RDS5hiKq_Vg

The Redditch-based Royal Enfield firm enters the motorcycle business as early as 1898. In the early days engines from De Dion-Bouton power their tricycles and quadricycles; Minerva supplies the power for the first motorized cycles. By 1904 the firm is concentrating on car production, resuming motorcycle manufacture in 1910 with a 2¼ HP v-twin Motosacoche-powered lightweight. A 2¾ HP version with two-speed gear and all-chain drive follows. These machines are equipped with the famous Enfield two-speed gear, involving twin primary chains. In the rear wheel hub a rubber cush drive is fitted to take the punch out of the chain drive. This feature will be incorporated into all Royal Enfields until the very end. A robust JAP v-twin-engined 6 HP model that is specially designed for sidecar use joins the range for 1912 and remains practically unchanged for 1913. New for 1914 are the double springs in the front forks. The Model 180 is both powerful and reliable, with good lubrication and a foolproof transmission. These machines are often still in use in the nineteen-thirties. The Classic Motorcycle of December, 1997 contains an interesting article about a 1914 Model 180.
Our Model 180 is an older restoration that has been in the possession of the former owner for almost 15 years. He has taken part in many vintage rallies on this machine but due to his advancing age he decided it’s time to pass the machine on to a younger enthusiast. She has been a very reliable companion and has participated in a number of Anglo-Dutch rallies over the years.
Interesting points of the Model 180 are the clean handlebars with integrated levers, the hand crank starter, the giant petrol/oil tank and ditto footboards and of course the practical 2-speed gear. Accessories fitted are an acetylene lighting system with Birmingham-made F.R.S. front lamp and rear view mirror.