BROUGH SUPERIOR

OHV 680 S - 1930

Electric start 1930s style

George Brough's bikes truly were superior; their slogan, "the Rolls-Royce of Motorcycles”, was justified. Superbikes of their day, they were built to order. Clients, such as Lawrence of Arabia – who owned several Brough Superiors – would visit the factory to discuss the specifications of their next machine.

Powerful and Sophisticated

The 680cc model, launched at the 1929 London Show, was one of Brough's more exclusive products. Powered by the smallest of JAP's V-twins, it was the most powerful and sophisticated machine in its class in 1929 and 1930. Its successor, the similarly engine Black Alpine of 1933, was clocked at 110 mph on the banked Outer Circuit of Brooklands.

Outstanding Roadholding

The frame of the 680 S had a leading-link Castle front fork, which gave outstanding roadholding. The fact that the 680 S also had rear suspension – in this case a swing arm with cantilever springing – was unusual for the period (a time when most bikes had rigid rear ends). Luxury equipment and a high standard of finish were all part of the picture, but this particular Brough Superior had it all. Two carburetors, twin magnetos, four oil pumps, twin exhausts for each cylinder and high-compression heads were remarkable enough, but – since its first owner had an artificial leg – it also had an enormous Lucas Dynastart mounted ahead of the engine, making this one of the first motorcycles with electric starting.

SPECIFICATIONS

Engine: 674cc (70x88mm) air-cooledjAP Vtwin four-stroke; dry-sump lubrication with JAP double pump in the crankcase and external Pilgrim pump

Valves: overhead

Fuel System: twin carburetors

Transmission: 3-speed (4-speed optional), chain final drive

Suspension: Castle leading-link forks (front); swing arm with friction dampers (rear)

Brakes: drum (front & rear)

Wheels: 3.25x19 inch (front & rear)

Weight: 529 lb

Maximum Speed: 100 mph

This bike bas a speedometer calibrated in kilometers and an unusual color scheme – brown, mauve and red were alternatives to black.