Lot details
Registration No: XW 4499
Frame No: 563
Engine No: 1081/A
cc: 750
MOT Expiry Date: Exempt

Introduced in 1923 the M50 represented the culmination in the development of the in line, four cylinder motorcycle by FN (Fabrique Nationale de Herstal). Established in 1899 FN had quickly established themselves as a leading car and motorcycle manufacturer. Early machines employed 133cc clip on engines and the motorcycle range quickly expanded to include 362,412,596 and 748cc machines with in line four cylinder models being a feature of the range as was shaft drive, a system that the company had successfully applied to their bicycles before applying it to their motorcycles.
The M50 employed an inlet over exhaust, four cylinder engine displacing 748cc. A three speed gearbox and chain final drive were employed. The cycle parts followed contemporary practice with the emphasis being placed on comfort rather than outright performance. The machine was no better in terms of performance than FN's own 350cc single while being considerably more expensive in terms of purchase price and running costs. Production of the M50 came to an end in 1926 after approximately 1,200 M50's had been built ending 22 years of four cylinder production at FN.
The example offered dates from 1923 and is offered in dismantled condition with some parts missing. There is, however, a dismantled but almost complete spare engine with the machine together with a current registration document, period and contemporary literature and transfers for the machine.