Rudge Multi 1920 499cc 1 cyl IOE 3503

Rudge Multi 1920 499cc IOE single Frame# 769645 engine # 18785  

With the introduction of the Multi Gear in 1912 Rudge was far ahead of the competition. They won the 1914 TT races with this system and Rudges were subsequently barred from certain speed events because of their “unfair head start”. The factory turned this to their advantage by using the “ barred” logo in a clever company advertising campaign. The Multi Gear system is based on the possibility to vary the diameters of both front and rear pullies, like the well-known DAF Variomatic system. By moving a long lever alongside the petrol tank some 18 different gear ratios can be selected. While on the move the rider can choose the engine rpm that gives most engine torque and then he can raise the actual speed of the machine by changing the gear ratio with the “multi-lever“ without actually raising the engine rpm, a remarkable experience when being out on a multi for the first time. From 1913 up to including 1921 the single Multis were available in 499cc (85×88 bore x stroke) and 750cc (85×132 bore x stroke) versions. A 998cc “Multwin” was catalogued from 1915 up to including 1921.

The machine on which Cyril Pullin won the 1914 TT had a special lowered frame and this type of frame was also used on the TT models in the 1919 range. The standard Multi still had the pre-war higher frame with the top tube parallel to the lower tank tube. The factory noticed that the models with lowered frame were much more in demand so from 1920 on the lowered frame was also used for the standard Multis. Business went well in 1920; the production rate for mid-1920 of 30 Multis a day was the highest rate the factory ever reached. Total production in 1920 was 3,600 motorcycles. Noticeable features of the Multi are the powerful rear brake that acts on the exterior of the belt drum, the spring operated rear stand and the foot-pedal operated lubrication system. Also note the comfortable riding position with gracefully designed handlebars, forward mounted footrests and standard pedals so that on long runs an alternative riding position is possible.

This matured older restoration still has the original celluloid covering of handlebars and Multi lever and comes with Lucas acetylene lighting and rare H&S “Silverdale” bulb horn. Carburettor is the usual Senspray, magneto is the new-for-1920 ML. A Rudge Multi offers the rare combination of vintage high technology and superb riding comfort! Video: https://youtu.be/Wa6mR7v7mnw