The Vintage Motorcycles
Specialists in antique, classic, veteran and vintage motorcycles.
Specialists in antique, classic, veteran and vintage motorcycles.
Fabrique Nationale d'Armes de Guerre, commonly known as FN, was a Belgian company renowned not only for firearms but also for some of the finest motorcycles in early European history. FN motorcycles were produced from the early 1900s to the mid-20th century and became famous for their reliability, engineering quality, and competitive racing performance.
FN started producing motorcycles around 1901. Their early models were heavily influenced by bicycle construction, featuring lightweight frames and single-cylinder engines. However, FN quickly moved into producing high-performance machines, including V-twins and large-displacement touring motorcycles.
The first FN motorcycles were single-cylinder machines designed for urban transport. These motorcycles were light, agile, and used early carburetors and magneto ignition systems.
FN was among the first manufacturers in Belgium to develop V-twin engines. These machines offered better torque and stability, especially for sidecar use and long-distance touring.
FN motorcycles became internationally known for racing success. From the 1910s to the 1930s, FN competed in both road races and endurance competitions. Their 500cc and 750cc V-twins were particularly successful.
The company emphasized engineering precision in its racing motorcycles, with magneto ignition, advanced carburetors, and precise valve timing that gave FN bikes superior performance and reliability for the period.
After World War I, FN expanded its range to include touring motorcycles, racing machines, and commuter models. The use of V-twin and single-cylinder engines remained prominent.
Following World War II, FN motorcycles struggled to compete with larger international manufacturers. Nevertheless, a few post-war FN models were produced for racing and niche touring purposes.
Original FN motorcycles are rare today. Collectors value them highly, especially early single-cylinder models, V-twin touring bikes, and competition machines. Models with original MAG or in-house FN engines are particularly prized.
Restoration is challenging due to the scarcity of parts, but surviving examples are often featured in European vintage rallies and auctions.
FN's contribution to motorcycling is significant. From the early 1900s to the post-war period, FN set high standards in engineering, reliability, and racing. Many other manufacturers in Europe adopted FN engine designs or drew inspiration from their construction techniques.
FN is a historic Belgian motorcycle manufacturer and is featured in our guides to Belgian vintage motorcycle brands as well as our complete overview of vintage motorcycle manufacturers by country, covering major global motorcycle industries from 1900 to 1980.
Sarolea, Imperia, all of which played a major role in Belgian motorcycle racing and engineering development.
Motorcycle enthusiasts and collectors looking for rare and classic machines can explore our vintage motorcycles for sale and discover a curated selection of historic and collectible bikes.
If you are restoring a historic motorcycle, you may also learn more about our motorcycle restoration services .
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