A specimen of the latest two-stroke two-speed Radco.
LATEST TWO-SPEED RADCO.
WE have recently been able to inspect one of the latest models of Radco two-stroke. The little 62 x 70 mm. engine is, of course retained, but there are one or two additions of some importance. A two-speed Albion gear is tilted to the bottom bracket, the drive being by belt and chain, and as the single-geared model was fine climber, this addition should render it a go anywhere mount. This model is fitted with comfortable inclined aluminium foot plates and a metal enclosed tool-bag. The Bowden wires are neatly held to the bottom of the tank by metal sides. The front mudguard has deep side wings, and one of the most important points is in connection with the spring forks.
If the owner will send to the firm Messrs. Radnall and Co., Dartmouth Street, Birmingham the name of the agent through whom he purchased the machine and also the frame and engine number he will be supplied with the new article free of cost. The increase in comfort is said to be considerable, and this is only to be expected, as a great amount of shock is taken by the double springing without being transmitted to the frame.
Previously these have given an up and down motion only, but an attachment can now be supplied which gives an additional forward and backward movement. This consists of buffer and recoil springs arranged to act on a special head piece, which also forms the outer sleeve of the original springing. The conversion from the old type is such a simple matter that it can be easily carried out by an amateur mechanic, and previous Radco owners are encouraged to try the new fitting by the generous offer which the firm make.
The Motor Cycle, October 8th, 1914. p417.
THE makers of the two-stroke Radco, E. A. Radnall and Co., Dartmouth Street, Birmingham, have standardised a Lady's model for 1915. More than usual attention has been paid to the question of suitable dressguards, a feature being the guards placed at the sides of, and at right angles to, the tank.
The engine is a 2¼ h.p. single-cylinder two-stroke, the dimensions being 62 mm. x 70 mm. It remains practically the same as last year, minor detail alteration having been made which make it still more efficient. The principal alteration ill the new models is in the front springing. Previously the spring forks had only given an up and down motion, but now a spring buffer is fitted which, in combination with the central upright spring, provides a double action.
The Albion two-speed countershaft gear is fitted, and this may be had, if desired, in conjunction with a free engine clutch. The price of the lady's model with two speeds is 32 guineas, and with two speeds and clutch 34 guineas.
The Motor Cycle, November 20th, 1914 p593
A GLANCE at the new 2¼ h.p. Radco is sufficient to show that considerable alterations have teen made to the frame. Not only has the engine been dropped several inches, but a very much lower saddle position is obtained, partly by the dropped top tube, and partly by general design. The appearance has been improved by the change, and the machine is strikingly neat in its lines. The length of the head lug has been increased by one inch, which, besides affording easier steering, allows more motion in the spring forks. The forks are, of course, the Radco patent, giving an easy motion both vertically and horizontally. Frame fittings have been somewhat modified, the carrier being stronger, neater, and rigidly fixed to the rear guard. The number plate forms an additional point of attachment, and gives great rigidity. Besides this the rear stand clip has been improved, a very neat metal covered tool-bag fitted, and comfortable cast aluminium footboards can be supplied.
Injecting Oil into the Petrol.
The method of mixing the oil and petrol is very simple, for it is pumped direct to a combined well and measure situated in the top of the petrol tank. When the measure is full a knob is depressed, which opens a valve and allows the oil to pass direct into the petrol tank. By this means the necessity of handling an oily measure and the probability of spilt oil on the tank is avoided.
The engine has proved so satisfactory that practically no alterations have been made, though we understand that a slight increase of power has been obtained. The silencer has been enlarged and a long tail pipe fitted. A choice of Amac, Senspray, or Cox carburetters is given. 24in. x 2in. Palmer rubber- studded tyres are fitted, and a pan saddle should materially increase the rider's comfort. Selling at twenty-three guineas single-geared, or twenty-nine guineas if fitted with the Albion two-speed, the Radco is sure to attract an ever-increasing market especially as the greasy roads and winter weather encourage a light handy type machine, and such undoubtedly is the Radco.
The Motor Cycle, December 17th, 1914. p675.
E. A. Radnall and Co., Vauxhall Works, Dartmouth Street. Birrn:nuham.
