Rudge 1929 “350” 340 cc 1 cyl ohv 3601

Rudge 1929 “350” 340 cc four-valve single frame # 34508 engine # 53991

The Rudge-Whitworth company was an established bicycle factory that entered motorcycle production in 1911. Their first machines were 499 cc IOE singles. They developed the famous Multi gear, with a possibility of up to 21 gear positions. For the 1924 model year the factory introduced a new range of four-valve singles in the 350 and 500 cc class. These were fitted with four-speed gearboxes, which was quite novel at the time. The “four-valve, four-speed” Rudges established an excellent reputation. The 350 cc was dropped for the 1926 season because sales had been modest compared to the 500 cc models. This decision was reversed for the 1929 model range when a revised 340 cc model was presented. This model shared many parts with the larger models, the idea being that many parts could be made on a larger scale which was more economical. It also broadened the range, because for several years Rudge had only presented machines in the 500 cc class. The 1929 catalogue states “The design closely follows that of its big brother, the 500 cc engine, and it has been brought up to date with the latest pattern radial port head and embodies many other improvements suggested by recent research in four-valve engine design.” For 1930 all Rudge engines would be redesigned with a round base barrel with six-stud fixing, so the 1929 340 cc is a one-year-only engine type. Bore x stroke are 70 x 88 mm and the engine delivers 14 hp according to factory information. The brakes are coupled, pressing the foot brake lever also actuates the front brake. For extra braking power on the front wheel the separate handlebar lever can be used.

The machine we present here is an older restoration that comes with Bosch magdyno, often seen on models sold in Germany. Brass dealer plates on the front and rear mudguard show the machine was sold via German dealer M. Gonther in Frankfurt Am Main. A nickel plate on the chain guard shows frame and engine number; the former owner advises us the engine has been changed at some time for another 1929 power source. The machine comes with original German “Kraftfahrzeugbrief” registration document that was issued in 1933. An interesting detail on this well-kept Rudge is the delicate nickel Miller headlamp with built-in amp gauge.