The Pope Model L was a motorcycle produced by Pope Manufacturing Company in Westfield, Massachusetts,[1] between 1914[2] and 1920.

Quick Facts Manufacturer, Production ...
Pope Model L
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ManufacturerPope Manufacturing Company
Production1914–1920
Engine61 cu in (1,000 cm3) OHV carbureted V-twin
Iron cylinders, aluminum crankcase
Bore / stroke3.328125 in × 3.5 in (84.5344 mm × 88.9000 mm)
Power15.4 hp (11.5 kW)
Ignition typeBosch magneto
TransmissionThree speed, chain drive
Eclipse multiple-disk clutch; lever on left side of chassis
SuspensionFront: Leaf spring
Rear:Twin coil springs
BrakesV-band brake actuated by backpedaling
Tires28 in × 3 in (711 mm × 76 mm) clinchers
Wheelbase56.25 in (1,429 mm)
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The Model L was, at 70 miles per hour (110 km/h), the fastest motorcycle in the world when introduced.[3]

It was technologically advanced for its time, with features not found on other motorcycles, such as overhead valves, chain drive (from 1918) and multi-speed transmission.[4][5] It was also expensive at $250, as much then as a Model T automobile.[1][4] (Another source of competition were cyclecars)

Specifications

Specifications in infobox to the right are from the Smithsonian Institution.[1]

Postage stamp

A five cent United States postage stamp was issued in October, 1983, with an engraved image of the Pope Model L.[6]

See also

References

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