Saroléa 1927 23 O 494 cc 1 cyl sv 3607

Saroléa 1927 “23 O” 494 cc side valve single frame # 411 engine # 014821

video: https://youtu.be/lY_x1iI7d94

After the First World War Saroléa takes up motorcycle production with a continuation of the 1914 3½ HP single but soon a new 4 HP model with bore x stroke of 85 x 97 mm and countershaft gearbox is presented. The engine and primary drive cover of this model bear a striking resemblance to those of the Triumph Model H and the Saroléa is, like the Triumph, also equipped with a Sturmey–Archer 3 speed gearbox. Within a few years the company develops an own line of machines with the “25”and “23”series, in which the 25 refers to 349 cc 75 x 79 bore x stroke models in side valve and overhead valve configurations, and 23 refers to 494 cc 80,5 x 97 mm models in both sv and ohv forms.
The model number stays the same during the twenties, but the suffix letters change every year. So for instance a “23 D” is a 1923 side valve Sports model, a “23 H” is a 1925 side valve Touring model and this “23 O” is a 1927 side valve model. The model 23 machines were well-liked because of their sturdy construction and reliable running. Main lubrication system of this machine is an automatic Best & Lloyd oil pump that is furnished with a tell-tale so that oil pressure can be checked. The oil from the B & L pump is fed to the engine at the back of the cylinder, while the auxiliary hand pump is connected to both the back of the cylinder and the crankcase. 1927 is the first year that Saroléa uses their own gearbox.
Our 23 O is fitted with various extras, such as a separate oil tank with handpump and aluminium footboards. She is an older restoration and with her modest weight and internal expanding brakes, a practical machine for vintage club runs.