1931 Models Under Test

496 c.c. O.H.V. 2-Port Dunelt

BACKED by the most creditable feat of having won the coveted Maudes Trophy in England for the last two years, the Dunelt, by sheer achievement, has forced its way to a high place among modern motor cycles.

In selecting the 496 cc. 1931 O.H.V. 2-port model Dunelt for a road test it was interesting to note how the make would perform under average Australian road conditions; and, after all, that is a most important consideration in the estimation of Australian riders. On taking over the model preparatory to starting it was noted with satisfaction that the kick-starter pedal was neatly fitted with a rubber covering - a nice point, this, for it was pleasing to know that application of footwear on the pedal would not result in a semi-circular indentation on the heel, as is so often the case. A tickle of the carburetter, then a none too vicious kick on the starter, WITHOUT employing the valve-lifter, and the engine burst into life from stone cold. So far so good.

Acceleration was quite satisfactory, and the sporty handle-bars, in conjunction with the full-sized saddle and the pneumatic knee-grips, afforded a comfortable riding position. The gearbox, while sweet in operation, however, was not as quiet as it might have been, a slight whirring in the lower gears being a little disconcerting. In top gear, however, the gearbox was absolutely silent.

Silence was another pleasing feature, both in regard to the valve gear and the exhaust. While going through the gears, and also when winding up in top from slow to medium speed, the exhaust note was never more obtrusive than a healthy wuff. The most outstanding feature of the whole performance of the Dunelt was its cornering. The weight distribution has been worked out to a fine degree. Several tricky corners on severe gradients were tackled, and the Dunelt handled with the ease and sureness that would have brought delight from the most blasé rider. On a flat section the Dunelt was tested for cornering at low speeds and some interesting results were obtained. A number of small circles were turned, and the model was twisted around the figure "8" formation several times, and without any attempt at boastfulness the rider found it quite at easy matter to stay "feet up." So nicely did the Dunelt handle that the rider had this satisfaction even though full lock was felt on many occasions.

Taken into really rough stuff along a back bush road, which was badly broken up by deep cartwheel and horse tracks and by awkward washaways, the Dunelt performed well up to its reputation. The fork springing was critically tested in modified charges at some real grandfather ruts, and the machine came through with full points.

At the conclusion of the test another of the few criticisms was made. The section in point was the rear stand, which, though of the handy, spring-up type, was found to be a little too long, and the process of hauling the machine up to resting position was not an easy task. Nevertheless, the Dunelt has many admirable features, which easily off-set those calling for criticism. Taken in general this Dunelt is a mount which will bring a real thrill to anyone with a penchant for sporty riding. Everything one could look for in snappy, whirlwind and dependable performance is in this machine.

SPECIFICATIONS.

ENGlNE. - Sturmey-Archer, 79 mm. bore, 101 mm. stroke, 496 cc. two-port overhead valve.

ENGINE LUBRICATION Mechanical Dry Sump.

MAGNETO. - B.T.H. Handle-bar controlled.

CARBURETTER. - Amal.

FRAME. - Fitted with steering damper and stop. Adjustable footrests. Sidecar lugs incorporated.

FRONT FORKS. - With incorporated shock absorbers.

GEARBOX. - Three-speed Sturmey-Archer gearbox.

HUBS. - All bearing surfaces and spindle diameters are of ample proportions.

BRAKES. - Internal expanding. 7 in. diameter.

WHEELBASE. - 55 in.

EQUIPMENT. - Includes set of tools, greasegun and inflator. Exhaust system and all usual bright parts are chromium-plated.

Australian Cycling & Motor Cycling magazine. Trove NLA