1929 New Imperial 500 SS
1929 New Imperial 500 Super Sport Model 7B
Sport Success
New Imperial, which had just set 13 world records in the 250 class at Brooklands in October 1928, confidently displayed nine models, including a new overhead-valve four-stroke, at the London Motor Cycle Show the following month.
More Go, Less Noise
The major innovation on the overhead-valve 250, 350 and 500 models was the twin exhaust system. It was publicized as offering greater performance combined with less noise.
Making Two out of One
The side-valve 350 and 500 were fitted with expansion chambers in front of the cylinder. It transformed their single exhaust pipe into a twin tube system, similar to that of the ohv models. Such luxury cost $70 for the side-valve Type 7 Semi-Sport 500 and $78 for the Type 7B Super-Sport: most popular was the new 350 Super Racer 10A, priced at $98. The trendy “must haves” were pressure lubrication and dry-sump lubrication, double-cradle frames, center stand and twist-grip controls. Manufacturers had to follow the trends in order to survive. So the “New Imp” adopted a saddle tank in 1928, then in 1929, came with twin exhausts and an enclosed valve gear, while the company fitted a dry-sump lubrication by joining an oil return to the external oil pump. In 1930, the marque introduced the Blue Prince, with standardized 19 inch wheels and a double-cradle frame (exclusively fitted to TT models in 1929). It also offered genuine dry-sump lubrication with a pump built into the power unit. In 1934, New Imperial introduced a unit-constructed engine. Swing arm rear suspension was offered in 1937.
SPECIFICATIONS
Engine: 498cc (84x90mm) air-cooled single cylinder four-stroke; magneto ignition
Valves: overhead
Fuel System: Amal twin float chamber carburetor
Transmission: 3-speed tank-shift, chain final drive
Suspension: girder forks (front); rigid (rear)
Brakes: 7 inch drum (front & rear)
Wheels: 3.25×20 inch wire (front & rear)
Weight: 353 lb
This finely-restored Super Sport Model 7B is stripped for action; less sporty riders could specify lighting equipment and a speedometer, but it all added weight!
This and many other Atlas Editions Classic Motorcycle cards are available for purchase.
