FOLLOW US
From the archive: Ron Haslam on a stocker VFR
It was the best advert for a new motorcycle – ever…
From The Archive - Bertie Simmonds
August 17, 2023
Little Engine touring
Velocette’s LE – for Little Engine – doesn’t perhaps spring immediately to mind as a long-distance mount, but that didn’t deter this 1956 tourist.
From The Archive -
June 8, 2023
Colourful Crafar!
Simon Crafar has the strange honour of being the best rider never to have won a World Superbike race, and yet when he went to 500cc GPs he became one of the few to beat the dominant Mick Doohan…
From The Archive -
June 7, 2023
Forza Ducati!
After an 11-year title drought, Ducati finally recaptured the World Superbike crown in 2022. It was a remarkable year for the Italian manufacturer, where it also took the MotoGP championship, the Bologna-based factory now has a total of 15 titles in the WSB series since its inception in 1988. Impressive.
From The Archive - Alex Bestwick
May 19, 2023
I don’t think anyone saw… 
The London to Land’s End trial first began as a reliability trial in 1908.
From The Archive -
May 17, 2023
From the archive: More questions than answers...
Mysterious picture of a motorcycle with right-hand attached sidecar in 1911 London, being blown a kiss by a stage star.
From The Archive -
May 15, 2023
Classic Racer: Enjoy some great vintage racing images from Mortons Archive
From The Archive -
April 27, 2023
Silky Scotts
Here is a warming image of the works Scott team at the Isle of Man TT in 1925. It seems a far cry from today’s professional and serious garage set-ups, yet the work, the conversations, and the ultimate goal remain the same 97 years on.
From The Archive -
April 17, 2023
Kocinski cool!
John Kocinski is a legend and a double world champion, winning the 250cc Grand Prix world title in 1990, but also the World Superbike series in 1997.
From The Archive -
March 28, 2023
Schwantz's first superbike
The young Kevin Schwantz didn’t get into road-racing until comparatively late, but when he did he set the sport alight.
From The Archive -
March 24, 2023
Additional track time
When the Melbourne Corner section was added to the Donington Park circuit in 1938, the first motorcycle meeting saw a flock of stars in attendance.
From The Archive -
March 9, 2023
Alternative power - From the archive
As the eco movement gains more credence and applies pressure to the motorsports world perhaps there is room for change.
From The Archive - Web Editor
February 27, 2023
Speed Records and the Triumph Tiger 100
In 1956 Triumph applied a ‘World Speed Record Holder’ decal to the nacelle of all machines to celebrate Johnny Allen setting a new motorcycle record at Bonneville the previous year; he returned to improve the time on September 6, 1956 and achieved 214.40mph.
From The Archive - Arianne Davey
January 17, 2023
Tiny Tina and the Supermarine Scimitar
Details on this photo are sparse, but the naval pilots of the Supermarine Scimitar look to have been drafted in for a promotional photo to push the Triumph Tina. I wonder if they were offered one of the scooters in return?
From The Archive -
January 9, 2023
GRANTY!
Mick Grant was the straight-talking legend of 1970s and 1980s British bike racing.
From The Archive -
January 6, 2023
Alternative Power
As the eco movement gains more credence and applies pressure to the motorsports world perhaps there is room for change.
From The Archive - Arianne Davey
December 20, 2022
Game Changer
Motor Cycle contributor Roy Nixon takes a breather on what would have been a brand-new Honda CB77 305cc on his way back from the TT in 1961.
From The Archive - Arianne Davey
December 14, 2022
Not so much an American dream
“I don’t recognise your bike, but your fez is familiar?” This PR scene is from where else but Hollywood, where the Triumph Speed Twin, complete with ‘bathtub’ rear bodywork, was never popular Stateside.
From The Archive -
August 12, 2022
Rocket Ron
It’s refreshing to have a colour photo from the archive for once and Ron Haslam’s smile sums up the love so many have of racing. The scene appears to show a typical club racing scene, with friends helping out.
From The Archive -
August 12, 2022
Overseeing changing times
In 1969, none other than the Duke of Edinburgh graced the Isle of Man TT with his presence. The prince first visited the TT in 1949 and by all accounts really enjoyed the spectacle; he was regularly seen riding a Honda Monkey bike on the Royal estates.
From The Archive -
August 12, 2022
Searching for Scott 
The year is 1954 and Mr J Whitehouse is astride a 1930 Scott Squirrel. The happy throng is the end of the ACU National Rally at Rhyl, North Wales, a navigation exercise taking in a large proportion of the country. The idea was simple – to cover as close to 600 miles within 24 hours, passing through as many waypoints as you could, with one point per mile and two points per waypoint.
From The Archive -
August 3, 2022
The pastime and industry in France
From 1912, a report on motorcycling over the Channel, featured in The Motor Cycle.
From The Archive -
June 1, 2022
Stock Tiger test
In the early part of 1937, ‘a demonstration of the high speed reliability of Triumph Tigers’ was undertaken.
From The Archive -
June 1, 2022
Paul Smart (1943-2021)
After years of racing and riding, on October 27, 2021, Paul Smart was killed, riding his motorcycle, in a road traffic accident, which is the subject of investigation by the police and coroner.
From The Archive -
May 9, 2022
From the archive: BMWs are just tourers, eh?
The Thruxton 500 was an annual race, held at Thruxton, Wiltshire, from 1958 to 1973, and the first team to cover the 500 miles won... erm, hence the name. But it was more than just another race; it was for production bikes, so it became massively important to marketing for manufacturers and prestige in the years it ran, attracting the top riders and factory entries.
From The Archive - Arianne Davey
January 18, 2022
From the Archive: Not just tiddlers
This photograph, which is marked having been taken in August 1921, shows James was not ‘just’ a small bike manufacturer. Seen at the Spa racetrack in Belgium some 28 years before the track held its first Grand Prix, this James looks like the 496cc V-twin model, built for racing at the TT and Grand Prix races.
From The Archive - Arianne Davey
December 14, 2021
From the Archive: Hubert Auriol: rally-raid legend!
Hubert Auriol – who sadly passed away in January, aged just 68 – was not only a three-time winner of the Dakar Rally, but the first to win it on both two wheels and four.
From The Archive - Arianne Davey
December 7, 2021
From the Archive: MV Memories
As the two young girls watch Mike Hailwood round Signpost Corner, what are they thinking? It’s 1963, the Senior, but does any of this matter to them? Maybe they’re glad it’s the final race of the week and it won’t be so noisy!
From The Archive - Arianne Davey
November 30, 2021
Flashback: Howard R Davies' story
Howard R Davies won the Senior TT, the world’s most important race, on a motorcycle he had built.
From The Archive -
July 10, 2020
Archive: John Surtees wins the 1960 Senior TT
Magnificent shot of John Surtees in 1960, en route to winning the Senior TT.
From The Archive - Sam Hewitt
June 4, 2020
From the Archive: International Dirt Bike Show
Though a modern event, there is still the odd thing for us classic enthusiasts at the Motul- sponsored International Dirt Bike Show… With all that’s best in the modern dirt bike scene on display at
From The Archive - Nigel Devereux
May 5, 2020
From the Archive: Trading Post – YAMAHA SR500/SR400
Still Running, Still Riding: The traditional half-litre single is still on sale! Yamaha’s SR road banger has been in production since 1978. That is a very long time indeed, so it must be something special…
From The Archive - Nigel Devereux
May 5, 2020
From the Archive: Austin Hockley – Fearless Fighter
Ask any of the competitors who raced regularly against Austin Hockley and the most common description they give him is ‘fearless’. Chris Carter charts his varied career. Words: Chris Carter Photographs: Austin Hockley Collection and
From The Archive - Nigel Devereux
May 4, 2020
From the archive: Take five – whichever suits your style
Before Royal Enfield’s sensationally-styled Continental GT made its debut, the 250cc Crusader line had already evolved into two variations on a very agreeable five-speed theme – the leading link front fork Super 5 and the
From The Archive - Nigel Devereux
April 30, 2020
From the archive: War Baby
Not everyone loves dogs, but this little Corgi is one that some folk might like to have yapping at their heels WORDS BY MARK WILLIAMS PHOTOS BY ALEX RAMSAY Funny things, wars. They can cause
From The Archive - Nigel Devereux
April 29, 2020
From the archive: Belgian GP 1962 – Bob Mac strikes gold
After a recent run of back luck, Bob McIntyre got his Grand Prix season back on track with a stunning win in Belgium, with Mike Hailwood, Ernst Degner, Jim Redman and Florian Camathias also scooping
From The Archive - Nigel Devereux
April 17, 2020
From the Archive: Rebuilding the legend
No question about it, factory team bikes have a hard life but their prototype predecessors have an even harder one. CDB checks out a 1970 370RN Suzuki development model. Words and pics Tim Britton Looking
From The Archive - Nigel Devereux
April 17, 2020
Bernard Hargreaves: Engineering, racing and war
Bernard Hargreaves’ life has been one of kitchen sink glamour.
From The Archive - Nigel Devereux
April 17, 2020
The story of the 'mystical' Seeley Condor
Three-cylinder Triumphs and four-cylinder Hondas were fighting for the title of Ultimate Superbike in 1970. But one year later there was a new contender for the title.
From The Archive - Nigel Devereux
April 16, 2020
From the archive: Ariel factory prototypes – and a well-executed BSA/Leader special
A reader’s letter in last month’s issue about a fine BSA Bantam/Ariel Leader special brought two enlightened replies which, between them, lay all possible confusion about the legendary ‘Bleader’ to rest. The BSA/Ariel special pictured
From The Archive - Nigel Devereux
April 16, 2020
From our Archive: Dutch delight
The 16th Anglo-Dutch Trial brought together a host of veteran machinery for four days of historic riding. When members of the Netherlands Motorcycle Club visited the Isle of Man for the 1911 Tourist Trophy they
From The Archive - Nigel Devereux
April 9, 2020
from the archive: Goffy’s light fantastic!
Mick Payne discovers many ways of improving the lighting performance of classic motorcycles as he talks to Paul Goff. It can’t have escaped your notice that car lights are getting brighter. Not a bad thing,
From The Archive - Nigel Devereux
April 8, 2020
from the archive: Spirit of Adventure
At one time all motorcycling was an adventure, but as roads improved the adventurous had to look elsewhere… Words: Tim BrittonPics: Mortons Archive There is little doubt adventure biking has taken hold of public perception
From The Archive - Nigel Devereux
April 6, 2020
from the archive: Norton Commando: Dream Machine
When you bring a classic bike back from the brink of oblivion, you get to choose exactly what it looks like. And if you want it to look like a Honda sports moped, well… WORDS
From The Archive - Nigel Devereux
April 6, 2020
FROM THE ARCHIVE: Triumphant return
On August 15-16, sprinting returned to east Kent, as Ramsgate reverberated to the sound of racing. Words: Alan Turner Photography: Alan Turner & Carol Green Government Acre is a large flat grass area at the
From The Archive - Nigel Devereux
April 6, 2020
Fascinating story of Australian legend Rex Wolfenden..
Photography: Stephen Piper If any one person deserves credit for creating the ongoing historic racing success story that is Australia’s post-classic road racing category, it’s T-Rex Racing Developments’ affable proprietor Rex Wolfenden. Alan Cathcart tells
From The Archive - Nigel Devereux
April 6, 2020
From the Archive: Love your bikes? Thenyou’ll love the Bike Bus
Operated by the Caledonian Motorcycle Transport Company, the Bike Bus specialises in professional long-distance motorcycle transport between Scotland and England, and always goes the extra mile to protect its precious cargoes. The Bike Bus is
From The Archive - Nigel Devereux
April 2, 2020
FROM THE ARCHIVE: Ridinglife || Vincent Black knight
Knight life Vincents aren’t your average classic bikes. Thanks to their curtailed production run, the final big twins are even more unusual than most WORDS BY Frank Melling PHOTOS BY Carol Melling IF ALL VINCENTS
From The Archive - Nigel Devereux
April 1, 2020
From the Archive: Ariel Square Four
Ariel’s top of the range tourer is still more than capable of going the distance. If you look after its engine, that is PHOTOS BY Rowena Hoseason WHEN BUYING A typical Brit bike – a
From The Archive - Nigel Devereux
March 18, 2020
From the Archive: It’s time to get into line!
Fitting a sidecar with the aim of obtaining the best-possible handling will pay big dividends out on the road, writes Mick Payne. What keeps an asymmetric vehicle like a sidecar on the road? There is
From The Archive - Nigel Devereux
March 18, 2020
From the Archive: Made in Japan – The ‘Black Bomber’ and beyond – what went wrong?
Steve Cooper pulls no punches as he looks back on the 1965 UK debut of Honda’s first technically brilliant ‘big twin’, the CB450, and the enlarged 500T that followed. Someone once opined that, to know
From The Archive - Nigel Devereux
March 11, 2020
From the archive: Festival of Legends at Hawkstone Park with Cumbria Twinshock: September 10/11, 2016
Words: Tim Britton Pics: Fiona Watson The weather is a major concern for any event organiser and the track record for the UK recently hasn’t been that good and as CDB pitched the gazebo and
From The Archive - Nigel Devereux
March 5, 2020
The 2015 Bikers’ Classics Spa: July 3-5
During the 13th edition of the Bikers’ Classics on the legendary circuit at Spa-Francorchamps competitors and spectators suffered from a heatwave with temperatures up to 37ºC. Jan Burgers suffered the heat to bring us the
From The Archive - Nigel Devereux
March 5, 2020
Triumph TR6: The great escape artist
Words: Frank Melling Photos: Carol Melling The TR6 was born for the USA and enjoyed its moment of glory in an American movie. It was the Americans who pressed Triumph for a bigger capacity machine
From The Archive - Nigel Devereux
March 4, 2020
From the Archive: Make yourself at home at the Victoria Bikers’ Pub
If you like the company of fellow motorcyclists in an atmosphere of live music, real ale and no-fuss British food, lots of rideouts and bike gatherings throughout the year, the Victoria Bikers’ Pub could be
From The Archive - Nigel Devereux
March 4, 2020
From the archive: Born to perform?
Pete Kelly turns to the Mortons Motorcycle Archive once again to see how the reporters of the day saw three entirely different kinds of motorcycles named after famous race circuits.
From The Archive - Shannon Butcher
February 6, 2020
A brief history of motorcycle sidecars
Uncommon as they are today, sidecars are an interesting footnote in motorcycling history…
From The Archive - Shannon Butcher
February 4, 2020
From the Archive: Memories of Mike
We asked Racer readers to send us their recollections of the young Mike Hailwood. Sydney Webster and Jock Leyden sent us theirs…
From The Archive - Shannon Butcher
January 21, 2020
Debut of a King
The location is San Carlos in Venezuela and it would be an inauspicious start to their 500 campaign as a mechanical issue side-lined rider Kenny Roberts and reigning champ Barry Sheene would win. It wasn’t
From The Archive - Bertie Simmonds
October 19, 2016
Gregg Hansford
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From The Archive - Jayne Skayman
September 16, 2016
Vic Eastwood
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From The Archive - Jayne Skayman
September 16, 2016
Sheene and Roberts do battle at Spa
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From The Archive - Jayne Skayman
September 15, 2016
Three wheeled advocate
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From The Archive - Jayne Skayman
September 15, 2016
1961 Ulster Grand Prix – Bob McIntyre on the factory 350cc Bianchi twin
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From The Archive - Jayne Skayman
September 14, 2016
Pete Sole
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From The Archive - Jayne Skayman
September 14, 2016
Lake District
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From The Archive - Jayne Skayman
September 13, 2016
1968 Norton Commando
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From The Archive - Jayne Skayman
September 13, 2016
Ron Langston
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From The Archive - Jayne Skayman
September 13, 2016
Woodman’s cottage
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From The Archive - Jayne Skayman
September 12, 2016
Mike Hailwood at the 1965 TT
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From The Archive - Jayne Skayman
September 12, 2016
Watsonian Sidecar Rally
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From The Archive - Jayne Skayman
September 12, 2016
Max Duebel and Emil Hoemer head for sidecar victory in the 1965 TT
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From The Archive - Jayne Skayman
September 11, 2016
Stopped for a rest
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From The Archive - Jayne Skayman
September 11, 2016
1971 BSA A65 Firebird Scrambler
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From The Archive - Jayne Skayman
September 11, 2016
BSA outfit
From The Archive - Jayne Skayman
September 10, 2016
Mick Grant (Lee Commando) battling against Peter Butler (Seeley framed triple)
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From The Archive - Jayne Skayman
September 10, 2016
1983 Suzuki XN85 Turbo
From The Archive - Bertie Simmonds
September 10, 2016
1983 Honda CX500T
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From The Archive - Bertie Simmonds
September 9, 2016
Ray Pickrell an instant winner on the Jim Lee chassis manufactured for Paul Dunstall
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From The Archive - Jayne Skayman
September 9, 2016
Gatehouse
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From The Archive - Jayne Skayman
September 9, 2016
MV Four breaks cover
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From The Archive - Jayne Skayman
September 9, 2016
Stanley Woods and Geoff Duke
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From The Archive - Jayne Skayman
September 8, 2016
Michael Grant aboard the Jim Lee Yamaha
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From The Archive - Jayne Skayman
September 8, 2016
A pair of Vincents
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From The Archive - Jayne Skayman
September 8, 2016
1983 Kawasaki GPZ750E
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From The Archive - Bertie Simmonds
September 8, 2016
Roger Marshall been chased by Barry Sheene
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From The Archive - Jayne Skayman
September 7, 2016
1939 Levis side valve
1939 Levis If you would like a photo print of this image have a look on www.mortonsarchive.com
From The Archive - Jayne Skayman
September 7, 2016
BSA Bantam
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From The Archive - Jayne Skayman
September 7, 2016
1926 London to Lands End Run
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From The Archive - Jayne Skayman
September 7, 2016
Twenty-four hour Triton – Barcelona 1970
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From The Archive - Jayne Skayman
September 6, 2016
Causing interest
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From The Archive - Jayne Skayman
September 6, 2016
1914 Pope motorcycle
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From The Archive - Jayne Skayman
September 5, 2016
1975 ISDT
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From The Archive - Jayne Skayman
August 25, 2016
Royal Bath and West Showgroung, Shepton Mallett, February 2011, Honda CB750
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From The Archive - Bertie Simmonds
August 24, 2016
BSA Bushman
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From The Archive - Jayne Skayman
August 23, 2016
Jim Aird
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From The Archive - Jayne Skayman
August 22, 2016
Ted Usher
Ted Usher threads his way along a snow covered road in the Austrian countryside in the 1952 ISDT. If you would like a photo print of this image have a look on www.mortonsarchive.com
From The Archive - Jayne Skayman
August 21, 2016
1932 Levis sales brouchure
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From The Archive - Jayne Skayman
August 20, 2016
Stars of the show, Rudge in 1930
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From The Archive - Jayne Skayman
August 19, 2016
Five men on a motorcycle June 1974
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From The Archive - Jayne Skayman
August 18, 2016
Allesandro Gritti ISDT in the Isle of Man
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From The Archive - Jayne Skayman
August 17, 2016
Jim Aird typical riding style
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From The Archive - Jayne Skayman
August 16, 2016
Kawasaki KDX 175
From The Archive - Jayne Skayman
August 13, 2016
Malcolm Smith
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From The Archive - Jayne Skayman
August 12, 2016
Royal Enfield trials Bullet
Royal Enfield Trials Bullet If you would like a photo print of this image have a look on www.mortonsarchive.com
From The Archive - Jayne Skayman
August 11, 2016
Rhyl seafront scene
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From The Archive - Jayne Skayman
August 11, 2016
Clint Eastwood deep in conversation
Clint Eastwood deep in conversation If you would like a photo print of this image have a look on www.mortonsarchive.com
From The Archive - Jayne Skayman
August 11, 2016
BSA M20
Shining BSA M20 – wish this was mine If you would like a photo print of this image have a look on www.mortonsarchive.com
From The Archive - Jayne Skayman
August 10, 2016
Blast from the past Steve McQueen on a Triumph
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From The Archive - Jayne Skayman
August 10, 2016
Geoff Duke on a Featherbed Norton
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From The Archive - Jayne Skayman
August 10, 2016
Ago’s leap
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From The Archive - Jayne Skayman
August 9, 2016
The Prince of Speed, Phil Read on his way to the first 250cc 100mph lap
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From The Archive - Jayne Skayman
August 9, 2016
March/April 2017
WHAT’S INSIDE   From the Classic Racer archive Did you know that you can buy any image from our archive for your own use? Classic Racer has tens of thousands of some of the greatest
From The Archive - Jayne Skayman
July 5, 2016
Reference: A to Z classic reference: Norton pre-war
Encyclopaedia of Classic Motorcycles: the definitive classic motorcycle guide
From The Archive - Richard Rosenthal
December 4, 2014
Reference: Ariel VH32 Red Hunter
This four-valve sporting Ariel single was only catalogued for the single season, though its name lived on...
From The Archive - James Robinson, pics by John Wilkinson
November 19, 2014
Reference: BSA CB34
BSA's Clubman Gold Star is one of the most iconic and revered British motorcycles ever made, and rightly so. This CB34 is a touch earlier – and rarer – than the more usual Beeza Clubman DBDs, but it still has plenty of pedigree...
From The Archive - James Robinson, pics John Wilkinson
October 21, 2014
Reference: Sidevalve 500cc Norton singles: which to choose?
Though many enthusiasts most readily associate Norton with overhead camshaft and overhead valve models, the firm’s early sporting successes came with sidevalve engines – and that valve configuration was a favourite, too...
From The Archive - James Robinson
October 7, 2014
Reference: AJS Model 18
This 1947 AJS Model 18 has been owned long-term and, though originally used for trials, now finds itself at work on the hard stuff...
From The Archive - James Robinson, pics by John Wilkinson
October 2, 2014
Reference: Bradbury 'Speed' Model
The Bradbury 3½hp single was unusual for having its engine case integral within its frame, an arrangement that offered several advantages...
From The Archive - Mike Lewis
October 2, 2014
Reference: Rudge Special
One man’s lifelong love affair with his Rudge has resulted in a show winner that means far more than money to its owner...
From The Archive - James Robinson, pics John Wilkinson
October 2, 2014
Reference: Excelsior Manxman J14
The Excelsior Manxman is, without question, one of the most visually appealing motorcycles of the 1930s. The 500cc version is also especially rare...
From The Archive - James Robinson, pics John Wilkinson
August 7, 2014
Reference: Velocette LE 1948 - 1971
Velocette's LE had a long production life, which indicated success, but it also absorbed a colossal post-war investment from the company, which in hindsight arguably did irreparable damage to the manufacturer...
From The Archive - James Robinson
June 25, 2014
Reference: Triumph Bonneville T120R
Triumph's Bonneville was, for many, at about its peak in 1969 as it had the twin leading shoe front brake and all the other refinements gradually introduced through the 1960s and was still pre oil-in-frame. This US spec example from that season underlines the point...
From The Archive - James Robinson, pics John Wilkinson
May 28, 2014
Reference: Triumph TR5 Trophy
Though functional-looking, the Triumph TR5 is also arguably one of the most beautiful motorcycles ever made – and this one’s a real stunner...
From The Archive - James Robinson, pics John Wilkinson
April 24, 2014
Reference: A to Z classic reference: Buchet - Cazenave
Encyclopaedia of Classic Motorcycles: the definitive classic motorcycle guide
From The Archive - Richard Rosenthal
March 19, 2014
Reference: A to Z classic reference: Talbot - Thor
Encyclopaedia of Classic Motorcycles: the definitive classic motorcycle guide
From The Archive - Richard Rosenthal
March 19, 2014
Reference: Ariel four-stroke twins: which to choose?
After the end of the Second World War, all the major manufacturers were rushing to get a parallel twin to the market, and Ariel was no different...
From The Archive - James Robinson
March 18, 2014
Reference: Triumph Tiger Cub: which to choose?
The early Triumph Tiger Cub was a funny machine in many ways, chiefly in that it (in conjunction with its smaller but very similar sibling, the Terrier) was Triumph’s only plunger-framed motorcycle and only single cylinder, too...
From The Archive - Web editor
January 29, 2014
Reference: Norton Featherbed twins: which to choose?
The road-going Featherbed framed Norton twins; should it be they that are considered the ‘quintessential’ British twin, rather than the ubiquitous Triumph Bonnie and BSA A10s which generally spring most readily to mind?
From The Archive - James Robinson
January 14, 2014
Reference: Norton Works 30M
Officially sanctioned by Norton, the Works Racing 30M is a top quality classic racer, built to exacting modern standards...
From The Archive - James Robinson, pics by Joe Dick
January 6, 2014
Reference: BSA A10: which to choose?
The 646cc BSA A10 made its bow for the 1950 season, in a not unexpected act designed to counter the success of the Triumph Thunderbird. Like the Thunderbird, the Beesa went for one colour; while the Triumph was blue, the BSA was a beige colour, leading to the name Golden Flash...
From The Archive - James Robinson
December 16, 2013
Reference: Velocette LE: which to choose?
Originally conceived as that elusive ‘everyman’ machine, Veloce Ltd hoped the new model 'Little Engine' LE Velocette would lead to a bright and shiny future for the Birmingham-based concern...
From The Archive - James Robinson
November 21, 2013
Reference: Vincent Comet Series A
Series A Vincent-HRD singles were the model which set the Stevenage maker on the road to immortality. The story goes that the engine was designed in under four months, as Vincent was disillusioned by the performance of 'bought in' engines...
From The Archive - James Robinson, pics John Wilkinson
November 13, 2013
Reference: Norton ES2: which to choose?
Norton’s immortal 490cc pushrod engine was developed into a delightful lusty slogger, fondly remembered by many. The ES2 or ‘Easy’ 2 to give it its nickname was a mainstay of the Norton range for over three decades, and had a devoted following...
From The Archive - James Robinson
September 4, 2013
Reference: Triumph Thunderbird: which to choose?
When Triumph launched its Thunderbird in 1949, little could it have realised that over 60 years later, a company named ‘Triumph’ would still be making a motorcycle called a ‘Thunderbird'...
From The Archive - James Robinson
September 4, 2013
Reference: BSAs: which to choose?
BSA’s unit singles were, for many years not in vogue, available for rock bottom prices which reflected their reputation. ‘Hand grenades’ and such terms were attached to them; full of energy, they were supposedly liable to explode…
From The Archive - James Robinson
September 4, 2013
Reference: BSA Bantam: which to choose?
One of the most famous motorcycles ever to be produced by the British industry as a collective, the story of the Bantam and its creation, with the designs received as war repatriations from the Germans, is well known...
From The Archive - James Robinson
September 4, 2013
Reference: SOS motorcycles: which to choose?
The SOS was a remarkable motorcycle, in that it was the product of a pioneering firm in a number of ways – chiefly because the frame was electric welded rather than brazed, which was the ‘industry standard’ up to that point...
From The Archive - James Robinson
August 27, 2013
Reference: AJS G6
The 350cc ohv AJS is one of the iconic machines of the vintage era, famed for its light weight and sporty performance. James Robinson takes up the story...
From The Archive - James Robinson, pics John Wilkinson
August 21, 2013
Reference: BSA unit twins: which to choose?
Introduced in January 1962, the new 500cc A50 and 650cc A65 �unit� twins replaced the long serving, much loved A7 and A10 series...
From The Archive - Web editor
August 20, 2013
Reference: Triumph Tiger 100s: which to choose?
Though the Speed Twin came first (in 1938) and was immediately well-loved (a position it retained), the Tiger 100 – launched for 1939 – was a different animal...
From The Archive - James Robinson
August 2, 2013
Reference: When was it that? Commander
The revolutionary Commander stole the Earls Court Motorcycle Show? With very few exceptions, lightweight two-stroke manufacturers had little incentive to produce stylish new designs that broke with tradition, mainly because the machines they produced were destined to perform a basic, utilitarian role...
From The Archive - Jeff Clew
August 1, 2013
Reference: The Grigg side-valve V-twin - August 1923
The August 16, 1923 issue of The Motor Cycle announced that the Grigg Motor & Engineering Company in Winchester Road, Twickenham would be marketing a range of single-cylinder and V-twin engines under the patents of Messrs Bacher and Hellow, who were responsible for B and H engines...
From The Archive - Gary Pinchin
July 29, 2013
Reference: Super Onslow Special
SOS machines of any age are few and far between, as they were built in such limited numbers. So the even rarer vintage-era machines fall into the 'hen's teeth' category…
From The Archive - James Robinson, pics John Wilkinson
July 24, 2013
Reference: Triumph Ricardo
A four-valve sporting single seemed out of character for Triumph in 1921. Bob Currie explains the background
From The Archive - Bob Currie
July 24, 2013
Reference: Norton Navigator
The Norton Navigator was never that popular in its day, though then – as now – it had its devotees. One of Norton’s last truly new designs, the lightweight twin thrived on revs – just like another range of small lightweight four-stroke twins soon to emerge from the east…
From The Archive - James Robinson, pics John Wilkinson
July 13, 2013
Reference: Matchless G45
The twin-cylinder Matchless G45 was a slightly bizarre departure for AMC, its conception defying what seemed, to many, basic logic. Instead of boring out the existing 350, the company based the bike on a production 500...
From The Archive - James Robinson, pics John Wilkinson
July 11, 2013
Reference: BSA A65 Spitfire MKIV
The Spitfire was BSA’s range leader through the years 1966 to 1968. This is a US market last-season version...
From The Archive - James Robinson, pics John Wilkinson
July 11, 2013
Reference: Triumph Speed Twin test
Triumph’s Speed Twin was restyled in the late 1950s, its demure appearance suggesting life at a much slower pace...
From The Archive - Mike Lewis
July 7, 2013
Reference: Ariel Cyclone
Rock and roll pioneer Buddy Holly went for an Ariel Cyclone just like this one. You can see why. James Robinson reports...
From The Archive - James Robinson, pics John Wilkinson
July 3, 2013
Reference: Triumph TR6SC
Triumph's TR6SC was ostensibly a single carb version of the TT Bonneville, sharing many of its basic components, and this is probably the best example you'll set eyes on...
From The Archive - James Robinson, pics John Wilkinson
July 1, 2013
Reference: Matchless G50
When Associated Motor Cycles’ engineers enlarged the 350cc AJS 7R to make the 500cc Matchless G50, one of the best looking racers of all time was created...
From The Archive - James Robinson, pics John Wilkinson
June 26, 2013
Reference: BSA S26
BSA made its name on the back of solid, dependable machines, just like this one, suitable for hard work without complaint...
From The Archive - James Robinson, pics John Wilkinson
June 26, 2013
Reference: Panther singles: which to choose?
Panther had a long and proud history of making big, long-stroke ‘lazy’ singles – though the Yorkshire firm also made a range of quality 250 and 350cc models too. But it was for its ‘big ones’ which Panther has enjoyed an enduring fascination...
From The Archive - James Robinson
June 26, 2013
Reference: BSA A65 Spitfire Hornet
As rarities go, they don’t come much more unusual than this US-only off-road BSA A65 competition twin...
From The Archive - James Robinson, pics John Wilkinson
June 22, 2013
Reference: Triumph Tiger Cub
The pretty Triumph Tiger Cub has always attracted a fair following, which continues to be the case...
From The Archive - James Robinson, pics John Wilkinson
June 13, 2013
Reference: Japan’s famous racing four
Honda's slightly 'oversquare' 250 four is conventionally designed, aside from the four valves per cylinder, contributing to a healthy 45bhp output
From The Archive - Web editor
June 10, 2013
Reference: Triumph Thunderbird
Triumph's Thunderbird is undoubtedly one of the most famous names in motorcycling lore, with both the model’s achievements and a notorious film appearance adding to the legend...
From The Archive - James Robinson, pics John Wilkinson
June 7, 2013
Reference: Matchless G12 CSR
Sports twins were very much in vogue at the turn of the 60s and the offerings from AMC in Matchless and AJS guise were up among the best...
From The Archive - James Robinson, pics John Wilkinson
May 31, 2013
Reference: Norton 40 International
The stylish Norton International was a mainstay of the Norton range for over 25 years, affording road riders the opportunity to straddle a close relative of the famous Manx...
From The Archive - James Robinson, pics John Wilkinson
May 28, 2013
Reference: Cammy Norton singles
Few motorcycles look better than an overhead camshaft Norton single; it’s the truth. Whether a vintage CS1 or a late Manx, each and every one is a stunner. And of course they have the performance to back up the pizazz...
From The Archive - James Robinson
May 23, 2013
Reference: Oil pumps explained
Oil pumps are usually hidden in the depths of an engine. Unfortunately the age-old saying ‘out of sight, out of mind’ often applies. As they are the heart of our motorcycle engines, lubricating vital bearings and other moving surfaces, they deserve regular health checks...
From The Archive - Richard Rosenthal, pics by John Wilkinson
May 21, 2013
Reference: BSA A65 Lightning Clubman
The BSA A65 Lightning Clubman was the top of the range unit construction BSA, in many ways the replacement for the Rocket Gold Star as BSA’s twin-cylinder racer on the road...
From The Archive - James Robinson, pics John Wilkinson
May 21, 2013
Reference: Magnat-Debon Poum
Ace restorer John Guy is well known on the show circuit, for his collection of vintage and post-vintage machines, six of which are SOS two-strokes. To find John as the owner of the featured French-built Magnat-Debon, then, was a bit of a surprise...
From The Archive - James Robinson, pics John Wilkinson
May 17, 2013
Reference: Velocette Venom
This late Velocette Venom is a fine hard-working example of what to many is the ultimate British single...
From The Archive - James Robinson, pics John Wilkinson
May 15, 2013
Reference: AJS K7
Though the ohc AJS was perhaps not initially the most successful of AJS’s 350s, it is undeniably one of the most handsome, with this a particularly spectacular example, a Best in Show at the Stafford Show, in April 2006...
From The Archive - James Robinson, pics John Wilkinson
May 2, 2013
Reference: OK Supreme G39 Flying Cloud
OK Supreme’s Flying Cloud was one of the most romantically named motorcycles and this example inspired an emotional reunion, more than 60 years after its manufacture...
From The Archive - Mike Lewis
April 30, 2013
Reference: AJS Model 22
The 250cc AJS Model 22 is quite a rarity, though its combination of ‘big bike’ feel and dimensions, plus a willing little engine, should make it a winner...
From The Archive - Andy Westlake
April 25, 2013
Reference: Healey 1000/4
A brave attempt to update and reintroduce the Ariel Square Four in the early 1970s led to an undeniably handsome and interesting machine...
From The Archive - James Robinson, pics John Wilkinson
April 5, 2013
Reference: Norton Commando: which to choose?
When Norton unveiled its Commando at the end of 1967 the firm took a brave and bold step; it dropped the world famous Featherbed frame, which for more than a decade and a half kept Norton apart from the ‘opposition’...
From The Archive - James Robinson
April 5, 2013
Reference: Triumph 350s: which to choose?
Never a maker famous for 350s, Triumphs, unlike some – think AJS and Velocette – never really put much effort into the class...
From The Archive - James Robinson
April 4, 2013
Reference: Norton Dominator 650SS
By the early 60s, Norton was beginning to make engines which were capable of exploiting the performance of its world-renowned frames, and the 650cc Dominator was one such bike...
From The Archive - James Robinson, pics by John Wilkinson
March 25, 2013
Reference: MV Agusta Modello CS Sport
MV Agusta was already becoming a legend during the 50s, with a hugely successful 25-year racing spell. The Modello CS Sport only further enhanced the Italian company's reputation...
From The Archive - James Robinson, pics John Wilkinson
March 13, 2013
Reference: Vincent Comet/LE sidecar
The pairing of a Vincent Comet with a 1980s LE sidecar isn’t one that instantly springs to mind, but this union has led to an outfit which goes well and handles even better...
From The Archive - Richard Rosenthal, pics by John Wilkinson
March 13, 2013
Reference: BSA Bantam D1
Once the country’s most popular commuter, these days BSA Bantams – especially the early, prettier but slower 123cc engined-ones – are more likely to be seen at static displays. Roy Poynting describes the different versions and focuses on a special D1...
From The Archive - Roy Poynting, pics by Terry Joslin
March 11, 2013
Reference: DMW Dolomite 11
DMW was one of a number of makers that used Villiers engines in the 1950s, though its products were always at the higher end of the market. James Robinson reports...
From The Archive - James Robinson, pics John Wilkinson
March 9, 2013
Reference: When was it that? Book 2
Welcome to the second online serialisation of the book Now when was it that?, a mixed bag of motorcycle snippets and industry trivia, written by Old Bike Mart's founder Ken Hallworth, then recrafted by Jeff Clew...
From The Archive - Jeff Clew
March 8, 2013
Reference: Triumph IR 'Ricardo'
When Triumph decided its range needed expanding and an overhead valve model should be added, the firm decided on awarding the task to an ‘outside’ consultant, Harry Ricardo
From The Archive - James Robinson, pics John Wilkinson
February 28, 2013
Reference: Douglas post-war flat twins: which to choose?
After the Second World war, Douglas pinned much of its hopes on its flat twin, horizontally opposed 350cc model, which while it was a fine motorcycle and had its staunch advocates, was rather too unorthodox and quixotic to save the company...
From The Archive - James Robinson
February 27, 2013
Reference: Mark 1 Cammy Velocettes: which to choose?
The overhead cam (K for Kamshaft; remember Veloce’s German origins) Velocette engine was designed by Percy Goodman in 1923, going on sale in 1925. The basic engine was to form the basis of the ‘cammy’ Velocettes until production ended after the Second World War...
From The Archive - James Robinson
February 16, 2013
Reference: Vincent Rapide
The Vincent name has always carried a certain exclusivity and mystique – and the pictures of this glorious Rapide perhaps help illustrate why...
From The Archive - James Robinson, pics John Wilkinson
February 7, 2013
Reference: Post-war Royal Enfield two-strokes: which to choose?
Nowadays, Royal Enfield is known for its solid, dependable, four-stroke Bullet singles. But it is easy to forget the company made other machines too – while the parallel twins are still widely recognised and enthused over, there were others as well…
From The Archive - James Robinson
February 7, 2013
Reference: NSU-Vincent Fox
Vincent and NSU entered into a little known partnership, to sell lightweight commuter motorcycles on the British market. This is a rare survivor...
From The Archive - James Robinson, pics John Wilkinson
January 24, 2013
Reference: James V-twins: which to choose?
Before its amalgamation into the AMC conglomerate in the post Second World War era, James was a truly independent firm – not buying in proprietary engines, like many manufacturers of similar size. In fact, the company didn’t even buy in gearboxes, preferring to make its own...
From The Archive - James Robinson
December 5, 2012
Reference: AJS and Matchless twin: iconic engines
When AMC introduced its parallel twin engine to an eager public in 1948 at the Motorcycle Show, it proved that the firm was not frightened of bucking the trend in engine building...
From The Archive - Tim Britton
November 29, 2012
Reference: A to Z classic reference: A - Adler
Encyclopaedia of Classic Motorcycles: the definitive classic motorcycle guide. To view other content within this reference work, you must be a subscriber
From The Archive - Richard Rosenthal
November 15, 2012
Reference: Ariel pressed steel frame
Innovative motorcycle manufacturer Ariel was arguably ahead of its time when it produced the pressed steel frame for the Leader and Arrow. It didn't catch on at the time, sadly...
From The Archive - Tim Britton
November 14, 2012
Reference: Velocette Viper: iconic engines
Never a major manufacturer in the way of Triumph or BSA, Velocette nevertheless produced some iconic motorcycles generally based around a single-cylinder four-stroke engine...
From The Archive - Tim Britton
October 5, 2012
Reference: JAP: a history
There's a mountain of difference between pioneering a cine camera and manufacturing the world's most powerful engines, but that's just what John Prestwich did and successfully too...
From The Archive - Jeff Clew
September 5, 2012
Reference: Norton-JAP 'Thor'
'Thor' is an appropriate name for this thundering V-twin. This historic JAP-powered V-twin sprinter was rescued before it was dismantled for its engine. James Robinson takes up the story...
From The Archive - James Robinson, pics by John Wilkinson
August 20, 2012
Reference: BSA Bantam D1 - back to basics
To many, the BSA Bantam is familiar and often overlooked – though it still makes an excellent, enjoyable, value for money classic, as explained...
From The Archive - Leonard and Guy West, words and pics
August 6, 2012
Reference: NVT rotary
It’s fifty-five years since the first practical Wankel rotary engine was built by NSU in Germany. John Nutting was one of the first journalists to ride a rotary-engined motorcycle when Norton-Villiers-Triumph revealed its ultra-smooth prototype in the 70s...
From The Archive - John Nutting
August 3, 2012
Reference: Ariel Square Fours: which to choose?
In a world of uniform single and parallel twin cylinder machinery, the Ariel Square Four was wilfully different, a machine which refused to conform to the norms of accepted, standardised design practice for nearly 30 years...
From The Archive - James Robinson
August 1, 2012
Reference: The Hesketh story
British Bike enthusiasts were willing Lord Hesketh to fulfil his dream of building a competitive all-British superbike, but it was not to be. The bikes were badly received and suffered from noisy transmissions and production faults, forcing the company into receivership during the summer of 1982...
From The Archive - Mike Lewis
July 25, 2012
Reference: Know your Monobloc
Four phase check for economy and performance on Amal's popular Monobloc motorcycle carburettor by Don Bridgewood...
From The Archive - Don Bridgewood
July 8, 2012
Reference: A to Z classic reference: Moto Guzzi - Moto-Reve
Encyclopaedia of Classic Motorcycles: the definitive classic motorcycle guide
From The Archive - Richard Rosenthal
July 8, 2012
Reference: When was it that?
Serialisation of motorcycle industry trivia, offering a fascinating historical insight into the workings and marketing of motorcycles
From The Archive - Jeff Clew
July 8, 2012
Reference: A to Z classic reference: DKW - Dot
Encyclopaedia of Classic Motorcycles: the definitive classic motorcycle guide
From The Archive - Richard Rosenthal
July 8, 2012
Reference: Ariel Red Hunter: which to choose
There were many versions of the Ariel Red Hunter, with its first incarnation a ‘sporting’ four-valver that had little relation to what was to come later. The switch to two-valves came quite quickly after, so the template was established...
From The Archive - James Robinson
July 2, 2012
Reference: Dealer diagnostics
Peter Fraser visits a specialist motor cyclist dealer's workshop and deals with cylinder wear, chaincase condensation, oil leaks and clutch trouble
From The Archive - Peter Fraser
May 2, 2012
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