Whippet Motor and Cycle Co
Whippet motorcycles were produced at Whippet Works, Falcon Terrace, Clapham Junction, London from 1903 to 1905. Two machines were exhibited at the late-1903 Crystal Palace show, fitted with a two-speed gear. This comprised two chain wheels of different diameters, fitted to the rear hub and a device to shift the drive chain from one to the other, just as on a bicycle. One machine was a solo fitted with an FN engine, the other a forecar powered by a 3¼ hp Aster engine.
A Two-speed Gear
is the principal feature to be found on the stands of the Whippet Motor and Cycle Co. (Nos. 63 and 64). A machine is shown fitted with an F.N. engine, the gear being enclosed in a case. On the same stand is shown a forecarriage with the gear exposed. It consists of a specially-constructed chain, which is provided with teeth engaging in corresponding recesses cut on the chain wheels. A sprocket on the back hub is provided with two different diameters of toothed wheels, and the chain is caused to slide from the one to the other by means of a striking bar. To enable the chain to again mount to the large diameter ring, a step is provided which eases the chain up without undue strain. The forecar is engined with a 3½ h.p. Aster, the usual fitments being provided for its efficient working and control. A specially designed and very-powerful brake is fitted to this machine, its chief point being the small amount of movement between the brake between on and off. (Stands 63-64.)
The Motor Cycle November 25th, 1903. p848
National Show 1903, Crystal Palace
N.B. This machine is not to be confused with the ill-famed Spagthorpe Whippet, nor with that of Hayward and Co. of Twickenham.
Source: Graces Guide
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