Photo ou archives : F-M. Dumas
3015
SAROLÉA
500 Supersport 24U - 1929
Dramatic change of style
Like most makers, Saroléa went through a dramatic change of style during the 1920s. The old flat-tank Type 23, which had been in production for six years, was replaced in 1929 by the thoroughly modern Type 24, with its elegant saddle tank and integrated design.
For the Sporty Set
While the Saroléa works riders were still using the Type 23U, the new model was certainly worthy of attention. It had many modern design features that made it highly sought after by the sporting set. Its rocket gear was enclosed in an oil-tight aluminium casing bearing an elegant letter "S." It had a submerged double-acting oil pump and a twin-port head bolted to the bottom end by four long pillars. The best features of the defunct 23U were retained, like the closed-loop frame, the centrally sprung front forks and the generous 7.9 inch brakes.
Wind of Change
The new 24U – and its little sister, the single-port 24S – were in production for a mere two years because a new wind was blowing through the Saroléa works. In 1931, the tall engine would be inclined forward on the new models. This 1929 24U and the 30R launched the following year were the last Saroléas to have separate oil tanks; from them were developed the 24R and 30C racing machines. In two years, some 1500 24Us were built.
SPECIFICATIONS
Engine: 494cc (80.5x97mm) air-cooled singlec-ylinder four-stroke
Power Rating: 20 hp @ 3800 rpm
Valves: overhead
Fuel System: Amal twin-float carburetor
Transmission: Saroléa 3-speed, chain final drive
Suspension: girder forks (front); rigid (rear)
Brakes: 7.9 inch drum (front & rear)
Wheels: 3.50x19 inch wire (front & rear)
Weight: 335 lb
Maximum Speed: 84-93 mph, depending on fuel – gasoline or alcohol/benzol
Two generations of Supersport Saroléas – the 1929 24U and (inset) its ultimate development, the 1931 30R.