Always on a road test there are some particular features about the motor cycle which stand out clearly above everything else. In riding the 249 cc. "Flying Cloud" model of the 1934 O.K. Supreme range the most impressive points are the excellent steering, the high degree of comfort and the good road manners. Mechanically, its J.A.P. engine is neither unduly noisy nor remarkably quiet The same could be said of the exhaust, but not without the qualifying remark that the note, if decisive, has that "sleek" quality which to the expert ear denotes good health, and to the uninitiated is comparatively innocuous.
Beyond doubt, O.K. machines are justly entitled to the enviable reputation behind them. The design is good, the finish excellent, and the many detail refinements add greatly to the machine's appeal. Performance exceeds expectation, justifying the claim that the model is "the most remarkable engine motor cycle on the British market.
Steering Positive.
On taking over a stock model from the Victorian distributors ( Messrs. R. A. and F. Findlay) it was noted that a steering damper was not fitted, but, despite this, the steering, at all speeds, was absolutely positive. In the 1934 model the engine is mounted farther forward than hitherto, and no doubt this is largely responsible for the satisfactory steering. In the matter of road holding, this O.K. was good, and never showed any tendency to get beyond control when crossing slippery tram lines or on uneven going. Taking acute corners there is a chance of the rider's knee being fouled when the handle-bars lock right over. Even a novice would become accustomed to this, and can rectify it by drawing his leg back.
Easy Starting.
The model tested was fitted with a Lucas six-volt dynamo and coil set. The engine proved one of the easiest starters imaginable, providing the right tactics were used. It refused to respond to strong kicks, but when prodded gently a one-kick start was possible. With the piston at the bottom of the compression stroke, ignition at half advance, and air half closed, dropping the lifter and a gentle kick was sufficient to cause the engine to purr sweetly.
Under flag test —the model had no speedometer—a maximum of approximately 70 m.p.h. was recorded in one direction, whilst against a slight wind in the opposite direction the figure was nearly 68 m.p.h. In the second gear, which had a ratio of 9.26 to 1, the approximate mean speed was 51 m.p.h.
Petrol consumption at an average speed of 35 m.p.h. was 110 m.p.g., whilst oil consumption was about 1500 m.p.g. with a mechanical pump arranged to deliver a liberal supply.
Brakes Very Powerful.
The pivot-mounted three-speed gearbox is of Burman manufacture, and the gears proved easy to operate. Fitted on the left-hand side of the machine, the rear brake is comfortably close to the footrest. Both brakes are smooth in action, and very powerful. The machine is a small one, but, nevertheless, really comfortable. Like the brake pedal, other controls are well placed, and the riding position is arranged to suit the average rider.
Inspires Pride of Ownership.
The canvas container which opens with the tool-box keeps tools free from rattle while moving, but the arrangement makes these implements handy if necessary. The wheels are chrome-plated, and are fitted with Barnet Glass tyres.
Like all its sister models, this O.K. Supreme, as a value-for-money proposition, stands comparison with anything in its class. In short, it is a most desirable mount which cannot fail to inspire real pride of ownership. Its Melbourne price, all on, is £69/10/.
Specifications of the "Flying Cloud" O.K. Supreme
Engine.—Sports type o.h.v., J.A.P., 249 cc.; single port head; mechanical oil pump; Amal. horizontal carburetter; Lucas coil ignition; enclosed push-rods and rockers.
Transmission.—Via three-speed pivot mounted Burman gearbox; simple adjustment multiplate clutch and side tank control.
Frame. —Redesigned duplex cradle, with Webb type girder forks and central springs; hand-adjusted shock-absorbers; central spring-up stand. A right-hand view of the 1934 250 cc. "Flying Cloud" O.K. Supreme motor cycle. A photograph taken yesterday outside the showrooms of the Victorian distributors, Messrs. R. A. and F. Findlay.
Wheels. —25-in., with chrome-plated rims, carrying 3-in. tyres; 5-in. front and 6-in. rear brakes, with finger adjustment and water excluders.
Finish. —Black enamel on anti-rust base; usual bright parts (handlebars excepted) chrome-plated.
Price.—Melbourne price, £69/10/, all on; equipped with electric lighting and horn.
Distributors:—Victoria: Messrs. R. A. and F.
Findlay, 326 Elizabeth street, Melbourne.
South Australia: Messrs. English Motors, Adelaide.
Western Australia: Messrs. Armstrong's Cycle and Motor Agency, Perth.
N.S.W.: R. Caldwell, Sydney.
Australian Cycling & Motor Cycling, Jan 14th 1934. Trove NLA
