FN - M70 - Sahara - 350 cc - 1928

13
days
05
hours
04
minutes
57
seconds
Current bid
€ 3
Reserve price not met
John Searle
Expert
Selected by John Searle

Over 25 years' experience with classic motorcycles and international racing participation.

Estimate  € 5,000 - € 5,900
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F.N. M70 Sahara, 348 cc single-cylinder engine, first registered in 1928.

AI-assisted summary

Description from the seller

Beautiful F.N. M70 Sahara, a true pre-war Belgian classic.

The engine block is loose and complete; it needs to be inspected and checked before it can be driven again.

Year of construction is around 1930. The provincial license plate N-36193 was issued in 1933 to J.M.A. Vogels in Oirschot, North Brabant.

Comes with a professional invoice showing the frame number and engine number; no license plate is included.

At the end of 1923 FN brought to market a 350 cc single-cylinder overhead-valve engine with unit construction. This model, the M60, was the start of a successful new line of models in an era when the heavy and expensive four-cylinder rapidly lost ground.

Two years later, a larger 500 cc twin appeared, the M67. Shortly after, FN halted production of four-cylinder engines altogether. The overhead-cam engines were very successful, but the factory realized that they were primarily appealing to the sporty rider. Therefore they decided to produce a model with side valves and unit construction as a utilitarian machine.

The M70 model had a bore/stroke ratio of 74 × 80.5 mm, a unit-construction engine, and a 3-speed gearbox.

The external flywheel of the early models was colored red, hence the nickname "Moulin Rouge" for this model.

To prove the reliability of the model, two French army officers and a Belgian mechanic crossed the Sahara Desert in April, May and June 1927 with M 70s.
They covered 6,300 km of desert without the machines letting them down.

A heroic achievement that brought the factory a lot of publicity and earned the name 'Sahara' (Sahara) for the brave little machine.

The Sahara was a very successful machine: it started easily, was very reliable, and had an impressive top speed of more than 90 km/h.

The FN M70 is a historic motorcycle produced by Fabrique Nationale de Herstal (FN), a Belgian company famous for its contribution to the motor industry in the early 20th century.
A historic motorcycle that reflects the rich heritage of F.N. This unique machine is equipped with a robust 348cc side-valve single-cylinder engine, which is known for its reliability and smooth performance.

The M70 stands out for its classic design elements and exceptional craftsmanship. The stylish black fuel tank with the iconic FN logo, the rugged spoked wheels, and the authentic headlight give this motorcycle a timeless look. The leather saddle and the traditional suspension ensure a comfortable ride, while the simple controls offer a charming riding experience that takes you back to the golden age of motorcycles.

This F.N. M70 is not only a piece of motorcycle history, but also a splendid collectible for enthusiasts of classic motorcycles. With its carefully maintained original parts and its classic charm, this motorcycle is an investment in both heritage and riding pleasure.

Don't miss this opportunity to own a truly historic jewel—the M70 is waiting for a new owner who will value and cherish its rich history.

Beautiful F.N. M70 Sahara, a true pre-war Belgian classic.

The engine block is loose and complete; it needs to be inspected and checked before it can be driven again.

Year of construction is around 1930. The provincial license plate N-36193 was issued in 1933 to J.M.A. Vogels in Oirschot, North Brabant.

Comes with a professional invoice showing the frame number and engine number; no license plate is included.

At the end of 1923 FN brought to market a 350 cc single-cylinder overhead-valve engine with unit construction. This model, the M60, was the start of a successful new line of models in an era when the heavy and expensive four-cylinder rapidly lost ground.

Two years later, a larger 500 cc twin appeared, the M67. Shortly after, FN halted production of four-cylinder engines altogether. The overhead-cam engines were very successful, but the factory realized that they were primarily appealing to the sporty rider. Therefore they decided to produce a model with side valves and unit construction as a utilitarian machine.

The M70 model had a bore/stroke ratio of 74 × 80.5 mm, a unit-construction engine, and a 3-speed gearbox.

The external flywheel of the early models was colored red, hence the nickname "Moulin Rouge" for this model.

To prove the reliability of the model, two French army officers and a Belgian mechanic crossed the Sahara Desert in April, May and June 1927 with M 70s.
They covered 6,300 km of desert without the machines letting them down.

A heroic achievement that brought the factory a lot of publicity and earned the name 'Sahara' (Sahara) for the brave little machine.

The Sahara was a very successful machine: it started easily, was very reliable, and had an impressive top speed of more than 90 km/h.

The FN M70 is a historic motorcycle produced by Fabrique Nationale de Herstal (FN), a Belgian company famous for its contribution to the motor industry in the early 20th century.
A historic motorcycle that reflects the rich heritage of F.N. This unique machine is equipped with a robust 348cc side-valve single-cylinder engine, which is known for its reliability and smooth performance.

The M70 stands out for its classic design elements and exceptional craftsmanship. The stylish black fuel tank with the iconic FN logo, the rugged spoked wheels, and the authentic headlight give this motorcycle a timeless look. The leather saddle and the traditional suspension ensure a comfortable ride, while the simple controls offer a charming riding experience that takes you back to the golden age of motorcycles.

This F.N. M70 is not only a piece of motorcycle history, but also a splendid collectible for enthusiasts of classic motorcycles. With its carefully maintained original parts and its classic charm, this motorcycle is an investment in both heritage and riding pleasure.

Don't miss this opportunity to own a truly historic jewel—the M70 is waiting for a new owner who will value and cherish its rich history.

Details

Brand
FN
Model Type
M70 - Sahara
Engine size (in cc)
350
Year of first registration
1928
Condition
for restart
Registration papers
Invoice with engine number and frame number
Frame number
56068
Engine number
2978
Located in country
Netherlands
CoC (Certificate of Conformity) present
No
The NetherlandsVerified
3
Objects sold
pro

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Catawiki always aims to offer you the best possible buying experience. Our experts virtually review and select every vehicle in line with our submission guidelines and we require our sellers to provide the most accurate description of the vehicle. However, providing a fully detailed analysis of the vehicle is extremely difficult, and close to impossible. To guide you, we ask our sellers to provide information about the vehicle’s condition. Please consider that most vehicles for sale are classic vehicles and they often already have a whole life behind them, meaning that even a condition 1 or 2 vehicle might need maintenance to be ready for the road. It is advised to carefully read our submission guidelines that further describe details about the condition grades and types to manage your expectations. Cars are sold “as is”, meaning as described and in the condition they are in at the time of the sale and without any representation, warranty or assumption of liability of any kind as to the condition by Catawiki or by the seller. The condition of this item is the opinion of the seller and may differ from yours, your local garage, or the dealer’s opinion. This does not automatically mean the car does not conform to its description. Before bidding, please check your local legislation regarding vehicle registration. Neither the seller nor Catawiki is responsible for the registration of the vehicle in your country and will not accept a cancellation for your failure to register the vehicle. We also recommend that, if possible, you arrange a viewing with the seller before placing a bid.

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