1907 Fabrique-Nationale FN Four

FROM THE DICK SHAPPY COLLECTION: The 1907 Fabrique Nationale 4

Fabrique Nationale motorcycles, also known as "FN," were renowned for their pioneering innovations, including the world's first four-cylinder production bike (the FN Four, as shown here) and the extensive use of shaft drive. The company, initially an arms manufacturer, also achieved early racing success and produced high-quality, reliable, and smooth-running motorcycles. Manufactured in Belgium, this bike inspired American manufacturers, securing its place as the only bike in the Shappy Collection not made in the United States.

Percy Pierce, son of George Pierce of the Pierce Arrow Automobile Company, purchased one of these motorcycles, brought it to their engineers, and produced the first four-cylinder inline-four in the US. It was an immediate success, selling in over 40 countries, including the United States.

This 1907 Fabrique Nationale (FN) Four is in completely original condition right down to the authentic wood rims. Its a 362 CC inline four-cylinder shaft drive made in Herstal, Belgium. It weighs just over 300 pounds, which was heavier than its competitors of the day, and has a coaster-type brake on the rear drum and a stirrup brake on the rear rim. Harley-Davidson copied the FN Four's short-leading-link front fork design as well as Brough Superior. It was revolutionary, helping move the motorcycle industry forward.


ENGINE: 362 CC inline four-cylinder shaft drive

MANUFACTURED: Herstal, Belgium

VIN: 18074

CONDITION: Running & original

BRAKES: Coaster-type brake on the rear drum and a stirrup brake on the rear rim

WEIGHT: Just over 300 LB.

HISTORY: Formerly of the Lee Roy Hartung Collection

DOCUMENTATION: US Title


Own a Pivotal Piece of Motor­cycle History: The 1907 FN Four

Imagine: the groundbreaking Fabrique Nationale (FN) Four, whose advanced inline four-cylinder architecture captivated Percy Pierce of the legendary Pierce Arrow Automobile Com­pany. So inspired was he by this very model, his Engin­eers developed Amer­ica's first inline-four Motor­cycle, achieving instant global success across 40+ countries.

Now, you can experience that pioneering spirit firsthand with this exceptionally preserved 1907 FN Four. Presented in stunningly Orig­inal condition, right down to its authentic wood rims, this 362cc shaft-driven marvel from Herstal, Bel­gium, is a rare testament to early 20th-century innovation.

While its robust build (just over 300 pounds) and unique braking system (rear drum coaster and rim stirrup brake) set it apart, its true legacy lies in its Engin­eering brilliance. The FN Fours ingenious short-leading-link front fork design was so influential, it was later adopted by giants like Harley-David­son and Brough Superior.

This isn't merely a Motor­cycle; it's a revolutionary artifact that propelled an entire industry forward. A tangible link to the dawn of modern motorcycling and an unmissable opportunity for the discerning collector.