Description

1938 Sarolea 38H

Announced in 1936 by the Belgian Ministry of Defense competition to develop a heavy army motorcycle designed for communications, supply and fire support caused a stir among local motorcycle companies.

The Sarolea designers opted for sidevalve engine, which is not picky about gasoline quality and has good traction at low rpm, which is important for the army vehicle. The 974 ccm engine provides 20 hp rating required for an extremely heavy (545 kg!) machine. The engine is made short-stroke (88x80 mm), to reduce at least a little its overall width. The ignition system is from magneto.

The real technical masterpiece is motorcycle's transmission. To the engine is docked three-speed gearbox with reverse gear and rocker switch mechanism of automobile type. The transmission to the rear wheel is a cardan shaft. The rear axle has a two-stage demultiplier, with a special linkage switch. Sidecar wheel drive can be turned off, but equipped with a differential it can be used on hard ground.

As a result of army tests, Sarolea received an order to produce only 300 Model 38H motorcycles.