Difference between revisions of "Brough Superior"

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For the 1930 season, when the example offered was built, the SS80 represented the middle machine in the range, for those with deep enough pockets there was the overhead valve SS100, whilst the more impecunious would look to the pretty, but slightly small (in George Brough's eyes) 670. Those seeking a machine that balanced performance and stamina would opt for the SS80. All three machines utilised [[JAP]] powerplants, however, the SS80 (so named because 80 mph was guaranteed to be attained by the machine by the manufacturer) employed a side valve engine instead of the over head valve units fitted to its larger and smaller siblings. The 981cc vee twin transmitted the power to the rear wheel via a three speed gearbox, in the case of the machine offered a Sturmey unit , fitted with high gears and a chain final drive.
For the 1930 season, when the example offered was built, the SS80 represented the middle machine in the range, for those with deep enough pockets there was the overhead valve SS100, whilst the more impecunious would look to the pretty, but slightly small (in George Brough's eyes) 670. Those seeking a machine that balanced performance and stamina would opt for the SS80. All three machines utilised [[JAP]] powerplants, however, the SS80 (so named because 80 mph was guaranteed to be attained by the machine by the manufacturer) employed a side valve engine instead of the over head valve units fitted to its larger and smaller siblings. The 981cc vee twin transmitted the power to the rear wheel via a three speed gearbox, in the case of the machine offered a Sturmey unit , fitted with high gears and a chain final drive.


==SS100==
==Models==
[[Image:1930-Brough-Superior-SS100-Alpine-Grand-Sport.jpg|right|thumb|1930 Brough Superior SS100 Alpine Grand Sport]]
*[[Brough Superior SS80|SS80]]
[[Image:1938-Brough-Superior-SS100.jpg|right|thumb|1938 Brough Superior SS100]]
*[[Brough Superior SS100|SS100]]
The most famous Brough was without a doubt the SS100.  It was produced from 1925 till 1940. It was initially powered by a 980cc V-twin from JA Prestwich ([[JAP]]).  Each bike came with a signed guarantee from Brough that the bike had been timed at over 100mph for a quarter of a mile.  Brough advertised the hands-off stability at speeds of 95mph.  Fewer than 400 SS100s were built, the last 100 or so were powered by a [[Matchless]] V-twin.  Brough constantly changed the specifications of the bike resulting in each one basically being a custom job.  In 1928 he introduced an option for rear suspension, foot gear change in 1935, and a four-speed [[Norton]] gearbox in 1936. 
*[[Brough Superior Model 6/80|Model 6/80]]


TE Shaw, aka Lawrence of Arabia owned a series of Superiors (the last of which cost him his life in a crash), which all were fitted with a special stainless steel petrol tank.  In 1938 Brough revealed the Dream, which consisted of an exotic flat four engine with twin gear-linked crankshafts.  Dev elopement on all Superior's was halted when World War 2 broke out and was never restarted again.


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==Model 6/80==
[[Image:1927 Brough Superior Model 6-80.jpg|right|thumb|1927 Brough Superior Model 6/80]]
The 6/80 was a less expensive alternative to the illustrious SS100 & SS80 Broughs, and was known as "The Miniature SS100".  Offering good performance with outstanding flexibility, combined with low weight, made this model extremely popular.  [[Brough]] made nothing in house, but purchased or had built the components to assemble a [[motorcycle]].


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