WANDERER

708cc Eight-Valves -1926

Multi-valve pioneer

Originally designed in 1916, Wanderer's Vtwin engine changed little over the years. A three-speed gearbox was built into the engine unit, starting with the 616cc sidevalver in 1922. The belt final drive was linked to a primary drive, whose epicyclic reduction gear with an eccentrically-mounted output shaft simplified belt tensioning. The frame, copied from FN, had a double-cradle enclosing the engine, but the rear suspension fitted to the earliest models was absent.

The Luxury of Four Valves

In 1925, Wanderer introduced a 750 with two overhead-valves per cylinder. In 1926, it was followed by the 750 Luxe- more precisely, it was 708cc -with aluminum pistons and a nickel-chrome steel crankshaft running in roller bearings.

New Frame

The primary transmission of the 616cc model was still retained but in conjunction with the chain final drive. In 1928, the Wanderer became a true 750 (76x82.5mm, or 748cc), offered with either two or four valves per cylinder. The FN-type frame was discarded in favor of a double-cradle unit with a Webbtype fork - the first time this form of front suspension had been used on a Wanderer. They were also fitted with front brakes. The appearance was further altered by a two-in-to-one exhaust system to replace the distinctive four-into-two layout, with a heavily-finned cast-iron exhaust pipe reminiscent of the Brough Superior's, and the comprehensive electric installation was supplied by Bosch.

SPECIFICATIONS

Engine: 708cc (70x92mm) air-cooled V-twin four-stroke

Valves: overhead; 4 valves per cylinder

Fuel System: Two 22mm Amal-Fischer carburetors

Transmission: epicyclic primary drive, chain final drive

Suspension: Druid girder forks with coilspring compensation for variations in wheelbase (front); rigid (rear)

Brakes: drum with separate hand and foot control (rear)

Wheels: 26 inch wire clincher (front & rear)

Maximum Speed: 75 mph

Among the many refinements on this advanced machine was a fuel gauge that was incorporated into the gasoline tank filler cap.