FRERA

300cc - 1924

A luxury lightweight

Founded in 1906 by Corrardo Frera, this marque became one of the great names of the Italian motorcycle industry. Prior to World War I, Frera was the country's biggest manufacturer and exported much of its production, principally to Latin America. The factory, located at Tradate (and subsequently at Padua), built 200 motorcycles a month in 1923.

A Comprehensive Range

Frera's production was especially interesting during the 1920s. The comprehensive range included a 1135cc V-twin, originally with a three-speed gearbox and later with four-speed plus reverse, a racing version in 1921, a 750cc overhead-valve parallel twin and 350, 500 and 570cc singles with side or overhead valves, styled very much in the English manner. The flagship model appeared at the 1923 Grand Prix of Monza; it was a 495cc single with four overhead valves.

Affordable Luxury Two-Stroke

At the opposite end of the range was this 300cc model which offered the advantages of a leading marque at a more affordable price; it was one of the few two-strokes built by Frera before the war. Launched as a 209cc model in 1921, the first Frera two-stroke was joined in 1922 by a 284cc (74x74mm) two-speeder. This 273cc model appeared at the end of 1924, still with square engine dimensions, boasting a conventional three-speed transmission. Frera remained active until 1956.

SPECIFICATIONS

Engine: 273cc (70x70mm) Frera air-cooled single-cylinder

Power Rating: 2.5 hp

Valves: two-stroke

Fuel System: carburetor

Transmission: 3-speed, chain final drive

Suspension: swinging fork (front); rigid (rear)

Brakes: rim (front); contracting drum (rear)

Wheels: wire clincher (front & rear)

Weight: approx. 300 lb

Maximum Speed: approx. 70 mph

The beautifully finished little Frera two-stroke had the modern feature of chain drive, though its swinging front fork was an archaic touch.