This page covers motorcycles and motorcyclists from both the Land of the Long White Cloud and the Lucky Country.
Famous names like Phil Irving, John Britten, W. O. Bentley (born in the UK to Australian parents), Jack Findlay and Harry Hawker are mentioned.
There are also pages on the early days of motorcycle racing in NSW, South Australia and Queensland.
Index of Australian & NZ Makes
Dealers
Melbourne Show, 1924 gives a brief overview of Victorian dealers.
Osborne Louis de Lissa of Australia managed Motosacoche Ltd (GB).
Numerous Australian speedway machines are discussed in the pages of the Speedway Workshop
An account of the first motorcycle to reach Australia, in early 1896, a Hildebrand and Wolfmuller
For more information on Australian motorcycle history visit the following pages:
Murray Barnard's Ozebook.
Simon Fleming's Australian Motorcycles.
Abbotsford
Manufactured by G.W.Revell of 301 Victoria Street, Abbotsford, Victoria, in 1912 and 1913.
Source: Saward via Wikipedia
ABW
A one-off custom, narrow-angle V-twin, Earles forks.
Exhibited at the Australian Motorcycle Museum, Nabiac, NSW.
Source: MxN
Absolom
Manufactured by J Absolom of 88 Brisbane Street, Launceston, Tasmania. At least one motorcycle under his own name around 1915
Source: Saward, via Wikipedia.
Advance (S.A.)
Manufactured by I.J. Mitchell of Blyth, South Australia.
Advertised motorcycles built to order in 1905-06. At least one machine was registered.
The British firm of the same name exported machines to Adelaide which were distributed by the Sphinx firm (in 1907), so it is possible that this was one of those.
The Advertiser (Adelaide, SA) Sat 26 Nov 1904
Advance (Qld)
The advertisements below would seem to indicate that there was another "Advance" brand, this one built in Brisbane. Advertisements for the machine do not appear before or after 1906.
MOTOR Cycles. - The Advance is the latest, cheapest, and best ; built of B.S.A. parts and fitted with a 2¼ horse power Minerva engine. Price, £40. Inspection invited. The Advance Cycle and Motor Works. 199 Elizabeth-street. Trove NLA: The Brisbane Courier Thu 10 May 1906
Aero
Manufactured by Aero Motor Works of Goodwood Park, Adelaide.
W. Ryal built motorcycles fitted with JAP engines from 1918 to 1920. See also Ascot.
Source: OTTW
A.J.T.
Arthur J. Tooze of Adelaide, South Australia built two motorcycles, the first with a
JAP 2¾ hp single, and a second machine with an 8hp V-twin JAP engine. The twin was found in the 1970s and appeared to have not been completed.
Source: Saward via Wikipedia
Alert
Alert Cycle Works of 36 Commercial Rd Prahran advertised in June 1912 "Side Cars built to order. £10 10/." Other than an advertisement for junior staff the following month, there is no further mention in the press.
Source: Trove, Simon Fleming.
Alexa
Alex Whitelaw of the Alexa Cycle and Motor Depot, 156 Ryrie Street, Geelong is referred to in Saward's book. Best guess is that he built one machine early in 1903 and died after an accident on it a few months later. His brothers testified to the coroner that they had ridden the motor cycle and that it was in good order.
The name of the firm was changed to Whitelaw Cycle and Motor Co, and then in 1905 to Whitelaw Bros., Electrical and Cycle Engineers with a new address in Malop Street.
The business was sold to D. T. Clarke around Sept 1907. There is no further mention of Alexa cycles in the press after that date.
The coroner. Mr G. W. P. Patterson, held an enquiry to-day into the circumstances surrounding the death of Alexander M'Farlane Whitelaw, who died on the 19th from injuries received in Ryrie street on the 12th inst.
The Ballarat Star (Vic.) Thu 21 May 1903
Sources: Trove, Simon Fleming.
Allison
Arthur Allison of Allison’s Motor Garage in Grenfell Street Adelaide built motorcycles from 1902 to 1906 using Minerva engines of up to 6 h.p.
MOTOR for Sale, Minerva, 3½-h.p. Allison, good order; £37. Address M. H. Hannaford, Millbrook
The Express and Telegraph (Adelaide, SA) Wed 11 Apr 1906
3½ H.P. Minerva Motor Cycle, magneto ignition, B.S.A. frame, Allison; £85.-Brush Co. Grenfell-st
The Advertiser (Adelaide, SA) Tue 22 Oct 1907
...Deards drove a 6-h.p. twin cylinder Minerva cycle, built by A. Allison...
The Register (Adelaide, SA) Mon 12 Feb 1906
In 1911 Arthur Allison was head of the Motor and Cycle Department at Eyes & Crowe, Pirie Street.
Sources: Simon Fleming, Trove NLA
Alpha
Manufactured by W.G. Doley and Co., 17 Flinders Street, Adelaide in 1904 using Minerva engines.
Mr. Doley is also an engineer and will undertake repairs to any kind of machinery, sewing machines, etc., whilst he has had considerable experience in the repairs of typewriters. Drawing and designing is undertaken for inventors, and as he is a certificated draughtsman he is well qualified for commissions of this kind, All orders are executed promptly at reasonable prices.
Quorn Mercury (SA) Fri 26 Oct 1900
Sources: Simon Fleming; Trove NLA.
A.N.A.
Manufactured by Martin J Shelley at the ANA Cycle Works, 430 Rathdowne Street, North Carlton, Victoria between c.1910 and 1919. ANA fitted engines from Fafnir, JAP, Precision, King Dick, MAG and DeLuxe, driving through Sturmey-Archer gearboxes.
A restored 1919 V-twin exists.
A.N.A. CYCLES and MOTOR CYCLES built to
order, from £8 10/ to £36 10/-; J.A.P., Fafnir,
Precision; free engines to order; Side Cars from £8 10/; Inspection invited.
M. J. SHELLEY, 430 Rathdown-street, NORTH CARLTON.
A.N.A. Motor Cycles lead the way; ask any of the riders, from 1¾ h.p. to 4¼, and they will tell you; well and worthily built; Repairs a speciality. Address above,.
The Age, Sat 22 Feb 1913
Similar advertisements appeared throughout the years 1910 to 1918 in Victoria's leading newspaper, The Age.
Sources: Simon Fleming; Trove NLA, et al
A.O.B.
SA Registrations
9196, A. E. Tavender, Narracoorte. 3½ A.O.B.
Chronicle (Adelaide, SA) Sat 20 Jan 1917
Source: Trove NLA
Arcade-JAP
Believed to have been built by Arcade Motor Cycle Exchange, Malop Street, Geelong in 1915
David Radloff writes, "Bike has 1915 650cc J.A.P. Motor with Sturmey Archer Chain Cum Belt Gearbox in an Australian Healing Built Frame and Forks. On closer Inspection there is very intricate Fine Pinstriping including Pansy Transfers. The Forks are Healing's copies of Druid Forks but with Tapered Tubes and are referred to as Peerless Forks."
The firm was an agent for G.C.S..
Sources: Trove, et al
MOTOR CYCLES.
Secondhand Triumph, 3-speed £35. Twin Swiss. £40.
Triumph, £30. Jap, 6 h.p., £65, and Twenty others to choose from the Cheapest
and Best Secondhand Motor Cycles in Geelong.
Sole Agents for the famous G.C.S. J.A.P
Arcade Motor Cycle Exchange, Malop-street, next Morris Jacobs.
Geelong Advertiser (Vic.) Sat 30 Aug 1919
MOTOR CYCLES, SECONDHAND.
We have a First-class Stock of Motor Cycles, Japs, Excelsior Indians, Rovers,
Triumph. and a First-class Stock of others
to choose from at prices that will suit everyone. Cash or Easy Terms. We are Repair Specialists and guarantee our work
MOTOR CYCLES BUILT TO ORDER
SOLE AGENTS FOR G.C.S. JAP.
ARCADE MOTOR CYCLE EXCHANGE, 113 MALOP-ST., next Morris Jacobs.
Geelong Advertiser (Vic.) Sat 27 Dec 1919
Ariel
Ariel Cycle & Motor Works, 114 Nicholson Street, Footscray. The firm was established by J. Anderson, who branded Healing machines as his own between 1911 and 1916.
The firm was later owned by EC Roberts, who does not seem to have marketed motorcycles. In 1925 they advertised that Ariel bicycles, built in Australia, had won a six day race in Chicago, gaining 1st, 2nd and 5th places at the hands of American champions Fred Spencer, Harris Horder and Harry Horan. These too were re-badged Healings.
The Argus (Melbourne, Vic.) 25 Mar 1916
The Argus (Melbourne, Vic.) Tue 30 Dec 1919
Sources:Simon Fleming; Trove NLA
Arion
Walter Chapman is believed to have built a motorcycle name "Arion" using a JAP V-twin.
Weekly Times (Melbourne, Vic.) Sat 28 Sep 1912
Sources: Simon Fleming , Trove NLA
Astley
Manufactured by Astley Cycles and Motor Cycles, 537 Mt. Alexander Rd., Moonee Ponds, Victoria.
1911-1918
Motorcycles were built using single and twin-cylinder Fafnir, Precision and JAP engines mounted in Chater-Lea frames.
ASTLEY CYCLES AND MOTOR CYCLES
AND Agent for the FAMOUS "BROUGH" MOTOR CYCLES
and ENGINES.
MOTOR CYCLES built to Order from £45
B.S.A. CYCLES, with EADIE FREE WHEEL, £12 10s
Cash or Terms Arranged
537 Mt. Alexander Rd., Moonee Ponds
Phone, ASCOT 575 C. H. ASTLEY, Proprietor
The Essendon Gazette and Keilor, Bulla and Broadmeadows Reporter (Moonee Ponds, Vic) Thu 2 Dec 1915
Sources: Simon Fleming; Trove NLA
Australis 1895 (Sydney)
Baden Powell
The following advertisement appears in 1904 and 1905.
C. A. BLAKE,
CYCLE MAKER and MECHANICAL ENGINEER,
158 BRIDGE ROAD, RICHMOND.
The "Baden Powell" Motor-Cycles are unsurpassed for Workmanship and Material.
PRICE MODERATE.
Jewish Herald (Vic.) Fri 23 Sep 1904 (Trove)
In 1911, "Charles A. Blake operated a bike factory" at 181 Bridge Road, and a plaque the he building denotes this. Number 177 is the National Theatre, Richmond. Blake's motor engineering works was listed at a similar address in 1914, and appeared in Sands directory for 1913, 1918, 1920 and 1925. Sources: Trove, yarracity.vic.gov.au, peterbennetts.com.
Image courtesy Terry Parker of the VVMCSA.
Bailey
Bailey & Co., was active from 1903 to 1908
Universal CYCLE WORKS.
H. C. BAILEY, PROPRIETOR.
Bicycle Engineer, Enameller, and
Electroplater.
Cycles and Motors Built to Order
Repairs of every description neatly executed. Accessories in great variety
Address -
238 King William Street, South, ADELAIDE.
Quiz (Adelaide, SA : 1900 - 1909) Fri 16 Nov 1906
Balmain
T. Perryman of Richmond, Victoria produced a machine using a Precision engine, circa 1915.
Extensive searches in Trove and Google for further information proved fruitless.
Source: Saward via Simon Fleming
BAL-JAP
Balfour Motors, 155 Mercer Street Geelong, Vic. 1912-1918
The Balfour Bros. marketed motorcycles using JAP singles and twins which were possibly assembled by E.W. Brown.
A 1917 advertisement gives address of 45 & 47 Malop St, with no mention of BAL-JAP - but it does mention JAP motorcycles for sale, along with Triumph.
1919 advertisements give their name as Balfour's Motor Garage, located cnr Malop and Gheringhap Streets. Sole agents for B.A.L, Triumph, De-Luxe, Indian...
Sources: Trove NLA; Simon Fleming
Barb Vic.
Barclay
Saward records two Barclay marques, one in Adelaide and the other in Geelong, Victoria. No record of either has been found in Australian newspapers of the day.
Source: Trove NLA
Beauchamp Vic.
Beare Sixstroke
Malcolm Beare patented and developed a remarkable engine which has been described as a cross between a twostroke and a fourstroke - hence, sixstroke. The machine had numerous qualities including far fewer moving parts (no poppet valves) and simply staggering torque. A video shows Malcolm astride a single-cylinder version with the front wheel planted against an obstacle, spinning the back tyre at what seems like very low rpm. The Ducati version was equally impressive.
A con-man took control of the company and stole the patents and the investor's funds. Allegedly.
Sources: MxN, sixstroke.com
B & W by Bennett and Wood, 1937-38
Bilyard & King
James Bilyard of Hobart and Sim King of Launceston who had stores in their own names in those cities produced "Bilyard & King" motorcycles around 1924 powered by a 494cc sidevalve Triumph engine. A belt drive machine, it had very robust front forks and a rim front brake.
James Bilyard had previously built the Havelock motorcycle prior to WWI.
In the mid 1920s they were both agents for BSA and Triumph. By 1927-28 the Bilyard firm was named Bilyard & Son, at 110 Elizabeth St, and were Abingdon motorcycle and Swift motor car agents.
James Bilyard died in September 1941.
Sources: Yesterdays, Trove NLA.
Blue Bell (Wagener)
Manufactured by Wagener's Blue Bell Cycle Works
121 Argent-Street Broken Hill and 140 Patton-Street Adelaide.
Advertised Blue Bell 4 h.p. motorcycles along with Singer, New Hudson and OK Precision.
Barrier Miner (Broken Hill) Tue 30 Dec 1913 (Trove NLA)
N.B. It has been suggested that a Blue Bell was made in 1907.
Terry Parker writes in the vvmccsa.org.au magazine (Feb 2020), "It is well known that W Wagener built the Bluebell motorcycle at Payneham Road Maylands from the early 1900's."
Blue Bell H. Canet (Shepparton, Vic.)
Blue Spec
Manufactured by E. (Ted) Wagener (and possibly W. Wagener) 1907~1918
Motorcycles were built using Minerva and JAP engines.
E. C. Wagener on an 8 H.P. Blue Spec All-British J.A.P. registered fastest time at M.C.C. Speed Trials at Meadows.
The Mail (Adelaide, SA) Sat 20 Nov 1915 (Trove)
Sellick's Beach Races Jan 1918
E Wagener on an 8 h.p. Blue Spec JAP is mentioned several times, as is W. Wagener on an 8 h.p. Blue Bell JAP. The Wyatt JAP also had several mentions, with several wins. (Trove)
At least two Blue Spec machines were registered in South Australia in 1920. These were most likely re-registered older machines.
16876, J. D. Piayford, Norton's Summit, 6 (h.p.) Blue Spec - June 1920
17450, G. Marques, Goodwood, 2¾ (h.p.) Blue Spec - Aug 1920
Bolwell-PGO
A firm based in Melrose Park, Adelaide, imported Taiwanese PGO scooters which they rebadged. The first appeared in 1999, the last in 2015. There were numerous models.
The company is now known as Symaustralia and has sold some 40,000 scooters. scoota.com.au
Source: Red Book Australia, et al
Bon Trike
Manufactured by Bon Trikes Special Vehicles Pty Ltd, 76 Sunnyholt Road, Blacktown, NSW, 1996 to 2005.
Powered by engines of up to 2000cc from Volkswagen and Harley-Davidson, the trike was assembled using imported componenents from a variety of sources.
Sources: trikesaustralia.com, et al
Bonning Roadster
A concept three-wheeler built by Brad Bonning of Noosa, Qld in 2001-2005 designed to run on an Eco Nova multi-fuel engine, but was fitted with a Honda CBR1000 engine running on petrol or LPG and achieves 200 km/h quite rapidly. Considerable attention was paid to styling.
Brandwood (Adelaide & Launceston)
Brooklands
Raced with frequent success in 1913-1914 by Eric Tyler, the Brooklands-Green was built in the workshops of Edmunds and Skilton, 419 Lonsdale St, Melbourne. (Also 433 Bourke St.)
The engine was a 499cc watercooled Green-Precision.
Sources: Trove; Leon Mitchel in Serpolette
Cameron 1918 (SA)
Campbell (Tas.)
Carbine (Sydney)
Manufactured by T.W. Henderson
Carbine and Worker Cycle and Motor Works, 40-42 Park Street Sydney. c.1910-1914
The Farmer and Settler (Sydney) Tue 11 Feb 1913
Lachlander and Condobolin and Western Districts Recorder (NSW) Wednesday 5 August 1914
N.B. There were two Australian marques named Carbine - see also Carbine (Melbourne)
Sources: Simon Fleming, Trove NLA
Carrison
Edgar Carrison of Port MacDonnell, South Australia is believed to have built motorcycles using Minerva and Peugeot engines around the years 1907 to 1909.
An E.J. Carrison is mentioned in connection with polling results delivered at night by motorcycle. (Border Watch, Mount Gambier, SA, Sat 16 Apr 1910). His name does not appear elsewhere.
Sources: Simon Fleming; Trove NLA
Castle
Winner (Melbourne, Vic.) Wed 30 Jun 1915, Wed 11 Aug 1915
Winner (Melbourne, Vic.) Wed 12 May 1915
Source: Trove NLA
Charleston 1907 (SA)
Clifton
SA Registrations
7659. A Edwards, 32 Sturt Street, 4¼ Clifton.
The Register (Adelaide, SA) Wed 26 Jan 1916
Source: Trove NLA
Clipper
Manufactured by A. E. Moore, Honeysuckle Point, Newcastle. 1913
A. E. Moore, BICYCLE BUILDER,
YOU will save money If you get your
BICYCLE from me. PRICES to suit
all, and easy terms arranged.
A B.S.A. FROM £11 10s.
CLIPPER MOTOR BICYCLE. £65. fiitted with the Famous Precision 3½ Engine.
The Motor that is doing much good work in England just now,
CALL AND INSPECT.
All Repairs Promptly Attended to.
My Motto: Every Customer a Satisfied Customer.
OPPOSITE GAS CO.'S OFFICE.
Newcastle Morning Herald and Miners' Advocate Wed 29 May 1912
Drop In To-day, and let me show you the New Model "Clipper" Motor Cycle at £65.
The finest- hill climber in Anstra1ia.
Newcastle Morning Herald and Miners' Advocate (NSW) Wed 8 Jan 1913
Source: Trove NLA
Comet-Minerva
Endean and Wilson, Sturt street, Ballarat. Agents for Swift and Comet bicycles.
Mr C. E. Denniston, manager of the Doveton Woollen Mills, has occasion last week to make a hurried visit to Melbourne, and instead of waiting for the train obtained a 2¾ h.p. Comet Minerva motor cycle from Messrs Endean and Wilson. The down journey occupied 4½ hours, but this duration was due to an accident to a tyre, which was cut through...
The Ballarat Star (Vic.) Mon 16 Nov 1903
...A careful watch has been kept on the [the] rapidly growing motor trade, and a number of motor cycles have been turned out of their workshops and have proved highly satisfactory on the roads.
The Ballarat Star (Vic.) Thu 20 Dec 1906
Source: Trove NLA
Cottman Colt
Manufactured by Cottman and Co, Melbourne in the 1930s using Royal Enfield 225cc two-strokes. Images from restoration of a Cottman show very similar frame and front and rear guards to the 1932 Royal Enfield Model A (with single downtube), so they may have been rebadged machines. Forks are pressed metal, as fitted to later models of the 225cc Enfields.
Around 1940 Cottman and Co moved into the former Turner premises at 291-293 Elizabeth St, Melbourne.
Sources: historicvintagerestorations.com/, classicmotorcycleforum.com
Criterion
Registration records in South Australia
2½ Criterion motorcycle, Jan 1917.
9316, E. J. Hender, Mount Barker. 2½ Criterion. Sat 10 Feb 1917
Source: Trove NLA
Dalwood Bros
Dalwood Bros were located at 66 Regent St. Sydney from around 1913 (name only in Dec 1913, no details). The firm was still at this address in 1926, using the name R.C. Dalwood. By this time motorcycles rarely featured in advertisements.
Saward dates them as 1916 or earlier, mentioning Precision and JAP engines.
MOTOR CYCLES for Sale, Twin and Singles, Side Cars.
Dalwood Bros., 66 Regent St. Sydney.
The Sydney Morning Herald Wed 21 Apr 1915
Source: Trove NLA, Simon Fleming.
Davidge
G.W. Davidge Saddlery Motor & Cycle Works of Narracoorte, South Australia, built bicycles to which engines were attached in 1913-1916.
In 1916 they were agents for Excelsior motorcycles, and advertised "Motor Cycles and Pushbikes built on the Premises."
Narracoorte Show
...Mr. G.W. Davidge, of Narracoorte, made a splendid display of harness and leatherware on a stand outside the pavilion. The exnibit comprise! light and heav. harness, riding saddles, and stable requisites, all characterised by excellent finish. The "Davidge" saddles, for riding and breaking, were much admired by visitors on the ground, Mr. Davidge also showed motor and free-wheel bicycle, the latter built by the firm on the premises and bearing "The Davidge" name.
The Narracoorte Herald (SA) Tue 6 Oct 1914
Bicycles were still being advertised in 1924, but the Davidge motorcycle appeared to vanish around 1919.
Source: Trove NLA
Davies-Franklin
Manufactured by Davies-Franklin Cycle Co., Ltd of Ballarat, Victoria. 1904~1913
A 1913 model was fitted with a JAP engine using a frame from AG Healing. That year the business was sold to WH Leech.
Mortimer Franklin and WP Davies established the firm in 1895. The Sturt Street workshops built bicycles and all manner of components, and by 1904 Davies-Franklin had the largest bicycle factory in the country, with 60 employees and an extensive sales network marketing their product across Australia. It became very well known in the years prior WWI.
SERIOUS CHARGE.
Ballarat, 7th October.
The City Court was crowded today when Mortimer Franklin, founder and managing director of the Davies-Franklin Co. Ltd., motor and cycle manufacturers, was charged with having assaulted a girl aged 14 years 11 months, on 5th October. A young woman named Kathleen Norman was also charged with having procured the girl in question.
Bendigo Advertiser Thu 8 Oct 1908
Both of the accused were found guilty, and were each sentenced to six months’ imprisonment.
The Mercury (Hobart, Tas.) Monday 7 December 1908
FIRE AT A GARAGE
MELBOURNE, August 23. The Davies-Franklin Cycle Company's garage, in Gheringhap street, Geelong, was gutted by fire to-day, and the contents, including three motor cars, were destroyed. It is supposed that the fire occurred through an employee dropping a lighted match on to an oil-saturated floor.
Evening Journal (Adelaide, SA) Thu 24 Aug 1911
Sources: cv.vic.gov.au, Simon Fleming, Trove NLA.
Davis
Davis Bros of South Australia built motorcycles named Davis-Jap and Davis-Forward in the years 1914-1916. They also built bicycles and advertised the "Davis Standard Model Cycle". Their address was Payneham Road St. Peters (or Stepney). Stepney and St Peters are adjoining suburbs of Adelaide.
They may also have had premises at 196 Rundle St. Kent Town, about 3km from Stepney.
Source: Trove NLA
Drysdale
Manufactured by Drysdale Motorcycle Co. of Melbourne
Four of these machines have been built to date (Mar 2021) - two 750cc and two 1000cc. Three of them are in Sports format and one of the 1000's is naked. They are built to order using engines and components specified by the customer. Models include the 1000cc Drysdale Bruiser, one of which was stolen in 2015.
Drydale was also responsible for the equally remarkable 2WD Dryvtech.
Sources: Ian Drysdale, et al
EB
Edwards Bros & Co. of Fitzroy, Melbourne were well-known in the trade as component suppliers, particularly fuel tanks. The built fuel tanks for the Invincible-JAP by Turner Bros 1922-1928, and also supplied tanks to Healings for their Peerless range. They are listed by Saward as having built an "E.B." motorcycle in 1915, using engine and frame from Healings.
Sources: Simon Fleming, Trove NLA.
Eden
Manufactured by Eden Cycle & Motor Works, Fitzroy, Victoria. 1904~1905
A photograph of the shopfront shows the wording "Motors & Cycles Faithfully Built to Order".
The brothers E & E Tapscott (Ernest Eden and Edward Cyril Tapscott) established the firm in 1903. By 1907, Ernest was working in Tasmania, and in 1910 Edward was living in Sydney.
Sources: Simon Fleming, picturevictoria.vic.gov.au.
Edith
Three-wheeler microcar manufactured in Melbourne by Gray & Harper, 1955. Villiers 197cc engine. It is doubtful that it entered production.
The makers, Gray and Harper Pty, Ltd., North Rd., say it could be marketed at £350 tax paid, and be a satisfactory runabout for up to three people at motor-cycle cost. Annual output would be about 70 cars built to order.
The little car has a 197 cc. Villiers two-stroke engine giving a cruising speed of 25-30 m.p.h. and maximum of 40, with fuel consumption around 50 m.p.g., but it is planned to reduce weight from 6 cwt. to 4 cwt., giving better performance and about 65 m.p.g...
The Argus (Melbourne, Vic.) Wed 9 Mar 1955 - Trove NLA
Ekins
In an article titled Monster Motor Meet: "Mr. A. Ekins, 2½-h.p. Ekins's cycle." The Register (Adelaide, SA) Mon 18 Dec 1905
A.L.G. Ekins is mentioned frequently in newspaper articles about gun sport.
Sources: Simon Fleming; Trove NLA
Elliott of Paddington
Elliott Cycle & Motor Cycle Works, 62 Oxford Street, Paddington advertised Overseas motorcycles in 1914.
The Paddington Elliott is listed as being "equipped with JAP engines of 5.0 h.p. and Villiers of 2.75 h.p." between 1911 and 1914. These specifications are similar to those of the Over-Seas, so it is possible that there was some badge engineering.
OVERSEAS Motor Cycles, 3½, 3 speeds, handle starting, footboards. 2½ tyres, decompressor, etc., £70;
Sidecars from £10, Wickcr and Coachbuilt.
ELLIOTT'S CYCLE WORKS, 62 Oxford-street, Paddington.
The Sydney Morning Herald Sat 5 Sep 1914
CYCLE and Motor Cycle Repairing Business, good living, £150. 62 Oxford-st Paddington.
The Sydney Morning Herald Sat 29 Nov 1919
Addresses:
Elliott, J.D., 62 Oxford Street, Paddington, 1910-1921
Elliott, J.D., 87 Upper Oxford Street, Waverley, 1922-1927 (formerly Ernest E Carter's shop)
Elliott, J.D., 401 Burwood Road, Belmore, 1925-1932
Sources: Trove NLA; bicycles.net.au
Other marques with similar names.
Empire (S.A.)
Manufactured by Empire Cycle & Motor Co, 232 Rundle Street East, Adelaide, and later also at Hindmarsh Square. They are believed to have built motorcycles using Minerva engines in the early days, and later Brown engines.
Advertisements from 1911 and 1912 mention Empire bicycles but not motorcycles, other than LMC for which they were agents.
Registration notice
7651—J. Pink, Clare, 3½ Empire.
The Journal (Adelaide) Fri 28 Jan 1916
The Empire Motor & Cycle Co., Ltd., of Adelaide, HAVING Purchased the Business Book Debts, and Goodwill of Frank Pfundt, Cycle Dealer and Builder, wish to intimate that they are carrying on the TWO SHOPS, and have a very large stock of Cycles and Sundries...
Border Watch (Mount Gambier, SA) Sat 13 Apr 1912 [1]
Sources: aussievelos.net, Trove NLA, Simon Fleming.
Empire Precision
Marketed in 1914 by Hartley Bros of Mitchell Street Bendigo, Victoria, fitted with Precision 3½ h.p. engines. These were likely Healing machines, re-branded.
MOTOR CYCLES, MOTOR CYCLES
Have you seen the new EMPIRE PRECISION, 3½ H.P. MOTOR CYCLE. We have various Models of -this Machine atl present on view at our Showrooms. If you are interested in Motor Cycling, please favor us with a Call, and we will point out to you their Special Advantages over all others.
We are also Agents for the TRIUMPH B.S.A. PEERLESS And Sunbeam.
Call or Write for free Catalogue.
REPAIRS TO ALL MAKES OF MOTORS.
HARTLEY BROS., Prop. Ltd.,
MITCHEL STREET STORES.
The Bendigo Independent (Vic.) Tue 14 Jul 1914
Source: Trove NLA
Esk 1904~1905 (Tas.)
Euroa (Vic.)
Ever Onward
Created in 1968 using a Barr & Stroud engine (probably a 500cc W.A.7) fitted to a Norton frame with components from Coventry Eagle, Enfield, Levis, BSA and others.
Source: classicmotorcycleforum.com et al
Image courtesy Terry Parker of the VVMCSA.
Burg / Favourite
Manufactured 1914-1921
Prior to World War I, W.H. Smith of the Smith Brothers Garage at Petersburg in South Australia sold (and possibly assembled) bicycles and motorcycles using the name The Burg. Following the outbreak of war with Germany in 1914, the town was renamed Peterborough due to anti-German sentiments. In response, Smith re-badged his motorcycles Favourite. (1) It is estimated that fifty Favourite motorcycles were built at the Smith Brothers Garage.
There are three known survivors, one of which is at the Birdwood Mill.
SA Registrations
7438, J. W. Hawke, Petersburg, 3½ Burg.
Registered SA Dec 1915
15877, T. Cunningham, Dawson, 3½ Favourite.
Registered SA Jan 1920
References:
(1) Saward, R. (1997) letter to Ken
Sources: artlabaustralia.com.au, Trove NLA
F.D.C.
"16657, W. Dower, Unley, 3½ (h.p.) F.D.C." Registered South Australia, May 1920
Source: Trove NLA
Federal
Saward states that Federal Cycle Works of Adelaide rebadged a Kerry motorcycle circa 1903. There appears to be no record of such a firm in any Australian newspaper of the era, nor is it mentioned on cycling history pages. (April 2021)
Sources: Trove NLA, et al
Firefly
Manufactured in 1905 by H. H. Whale of Firefly Cycle Works. H. Hulford Whale of was a cycle builder from c.1905 to 1932 in Burwood and Petersham. The motorcycle was fitted with a 2¾ h. p. Sarolea engine.
H. H. Whale. N.S.W. (2¾ h p. Sarolea Firefly)
Table Talk (Melbourne, Vic.) Thu 16 Feb 1905
Whale finished the race but was well down in the points table.
There appears to be some relationship with the Mumford marque of Krambach, a tiny village near Nabiac NSW. The village has a large area nearby called "Firefly", and lies on a river of that name.
Sources: Trove NLA, Saward, Martin Shelley.
Firth 1914-15
Fleet
Manufactured motorcycles fitted with Minerva engines from 1903 to 1908
Sources: Trove NLA, Simon Fleming.
The Age (Melbourne, Vic.) Sat 5 Sep 1903
(On the same page they advertised a large range of bicycle parts.)
Fitzgerald
Fitzgerald, Haig, & Co of Watson Terrace. Mount Gambier, South Australia were bicycle, motorcycle and car dealers before and during the WWI years. They are listed as having built Peugeot-powered motorcycles around 1910-1912.
Sources: Simon Fleming, Trove NLA.
Motor Cars, Motor Cycles and Push Cycles, new and second hand.
Many similar adverts in 1916
Flying Jolly
Manufactured in 1907 and 1908 by H. O. Jolly of Main Street, Yorketown, South Australia.
H. O. JOLLY
Main Street, YORKETOWN.
Motor and Cycle Manufacturer
Importer and Dealer in all makes of Motor Cars.
MOTOR CYCLES and CYCLES Overhauled and Repaired.
Builder of the "FLYING JOLLY" Motor Cycle and Cycles. Will build to your own taste.
The Pioneer (Yorketown, SA) Sat 12 Oct 1907
If you are thinking Motor Cycle, inspect the Flying Jolly on sale at the Flying Jolly Motor and Cycle Works, Main street, Yorketown. The highest class motor manufactured—lowest, longest and best; spring forks and magneto; tank holds 2¾ gallons of petrol.
The Pioneer (Yorketown, SA) Sat 11 Jul 1908
Source: Trove NLA
FONZ
Electric Scooters, Sydney based. Established 2010, known then as Fonzarelli.
fonzmoto.com
Forbes (Bendigo, Vic.)
Foulis 1909-1910 (Sydney)
Greyhound
In 1916 Mortlock Bros of Queen Street Perth exhibited a Greyhound motorcycle powered by a 2½ h.p. JAP with a 2-speed Albion gearbox. It is likely only one was built.
BSA Agents 1912-1938
Harley-Davidson agents 1919-1929
Excelsior (UK) agents 1929
They also built sidecars.
There was also a Royal Greyhound bicycle built by Gribbles' Motor & Cycle Agency of Cue, W.A. Given that the Greyhound name was well-established in the WA cycling world, it is possible there was a relationship.
Messrs Mortlock Bros exhibited this year for the first time at the Royal Show their display, consisting almost entirely of the well-known B.S.A. motor cycles, for which they are sole agents in this State. The first thing to catch the visitor's eye woe the 4¼ h.p. three speed BS A. and torpedo shaped side car used by Mr. J. W. Evans when he made his side car record of 12 hrs. 8min. from Albany to Perth, and with which be climbed Mt Clarence at Albany in 35 minutes...
The next exhibit was a 2½ h.p. Greyhound 2 speed motor cycle, built by themselves. This machine was fitted with a J.A.P. engine and an Albion 2 speed gear box, and finished in a style which compared very favourably with the machines imported. But owing to the difficulty in getting parts Messrs. Mortlock Bros. say they will not build any more whilst the war is on.
Western Mail (Perth, WA) Fri 27 Oct 1916
Source: Trove NLA
Growden
Manufactured by George Growden of Port Pirie from 1904 to 1907 using Minerva engines. Around ten machines were built. Following the sale of his business in 1908 he moved to Hawker.
NEWS BY MOTOR.
Port Pirie, March 10.
A copy of to-day's Advertiser was left with the local correspondent at 12 35 p.m., by Mr. G. Growden, cycle maker, of Port Pirie, who left North-terrace (Adelaide) at 6 a.m. on a motor-cycle, travelling via Gawler, Clare, and Koolunga. He arrived at the Port Pirie Post office at 12.34 p.m. The trip from the city was done a fortnight ago by Mr. C. Kerrison, of Adelaide, by motor cycle, in ten hours.
Chronicle (Adelaide) Sat 18 Mar 1905 (Growden's machine had a 2¾ h.p. Minerva engine. Time taken was 10 hours, a record which was widely reported. A week earlier he had set another record, Adelaide to Port Pirie via Gladstone, in just over 7 hours including the time taken to repair a puncture.)
March 10, 1905... Shortly afterward Mr. Growden introduced to Pirie a motor cycle sidecar outfit, and was the first to maintain a motor car for hire locally.
Recorder (Port Pirie, SA) Mon 19 Mar 1945
The following is a list of local businesses sold during the last few days... Growden's cycle and motor works to Mr W. E. N. Laver
Port Pirie Recorder and North Western Mail (SA) Wed 10 Jun 1908
Sources: Trove NLA, vvmccsa.org.au newsletter June 2016.
Guard 1906-07 (S.A.)
Hall 1905-1906 (Sydney)
Hallam - Tazewell and Hallam, 1898-1912
Hartley
Manufactured by Hartley Brothers Co, Mitchell Street, Bendigo 1906-1911
HARTLEY BROS., Cycle and Motor Builders, Arcade: Bendigo and Eaglehawk.
The Argus (Melbourne, Vic.) Tue 30 Aug 1904
TRIUMPH PEERLESS
BSA. PRECISION
motorcycles.
HARTLEY BROS,, Mitchell Street; And High Street, Eaglehawk.
The Bendigo Independent Tue 17 Mar 1914
Full Range of INDIAN MOTOR CYCLES On View at Our MITCHELL STREET SHOWROOMS
The Bendigo Independent, Wed 25 Apr 1917
Source: Trove NLA
See also http://www.aussievelos.net/hartley-cycles/
Havelock by Bilyard of Hobart.
Hercules
Manufactured by Harry Jackson, 163 Queensberry Street, North Melbourne, 1908~1927.
Numerous engines were fitted, including Coventry Victor, JAP, Precision, Villiers, LMC, Sarolea and Motosacoche.
In 1916 Jackson offered the Hercules with JAP 4 h.p., Precision 4½ h.p. and Precision Junior, LMC 4 h.p., Villiers 3½ h.p., Sarolea 6 h.p. 3 speed, in addition to the "colonial" engine.
For 1919 they offered a Hercules "Sparke De Luxe 7 x 9 H.P."
A Hercules sidecar chassis was available from Jackson's in 1917.
...Mr Jackson's representative on a motor cycle, the Hercules, rode over a mile, but as the track would not carry pace he could not attempt record breaking...
Mornington and Dromana Standard (Vic.) Sat 24 Oct 1908
HERCULES KING MOTORCYCLE, 2½-h.p.
built to order, colonial engine; £30 complete,
£32 terms,
163 Queensberry St., North Melbourne.
HERCULES KING MOTOR has Bosch magneto,
Druids forks, A.M.A.C. or B. and B. carburetter, Brooks saddle, Dunlop tyres.
The Argus, Wed 30 Aug 1916
Sources: Trove NLA, et al.
Other marques with this name: Disambiguation
Hockley
This is a British machine built in Birmingham for export. Production ceased during WW1 and did not resume.
An advertisement reads: "HOCKLEY 2-stroke, 2¼-h.p., 2-speed gearbox, splendid condition, real bargain. - 23, Wainhouse-st. Torrensville." The Advertiser (Adelaide, SA) Tue 18 Feb 1919.
At least two Hockley machines appeared in SA registration records for 1920 - they were likely being re-registered after the war.
15782, H. Beanland, Rosefield, 2¼ Hockley. (Jan 1920)
17510 J. Gilbertson, Virginia. 2¾ Hockley. (Oct 1920)
See also Hockley UK 1914-1916.
Source: Trove NLA
Hunwick-Hallam & Hunwick-Harrop
First presented in 1997 as the Hunwick Hallam, the impressive V-Twin had cruiser and sports versions. Hunwick was a prominent Sydney Suzuki dealer with branches in Wentworth Ave and Parramatta (Action Motorcycles). Thomas F. Hallam (Hallam Cycle & Motor Co, Hobart, founded 1898) was the grandfather of Frank Hallam, designer of the F1 Repco engines which propelled Jack Brabham to Grand Prix world championships 1966-1968, and great-grandfather of Paul Hallam, co-founder of Hunwick Hallam.
Later the marque became the Hunwick-Harrop.
Illawarra 1903-1905 (N.S.W.)
Invincible-JAP 1922~1928
Iris
Built by J. W. Empson of North Sydney, 1911-1914
Empson appears in numerous competition results for the period: French's Forest Hill Climb Nov 1913; 24 Hours Motor Cycle Reliability Trial, Sydney, Nov 1913 (equal first); Blue Mountains trial, Feb 1913; Bobbin Head Hill Climb, May 1914, (first place); Red Cross Hill Climb, Coogee, 8th August 1914.
Frank Delandro rode Iris motorcycles in several Sydney events. He managed J.W. Epsom's Cycle Works in Falcon St North Sydney until 1912 when he left to begin his own business, becoming a Douglas dealer.
E. Meller is mentioned in many racing results, including: Jun 1913, E. Meller (3½ Iris Precision); E. Meller (5/6-h.p. Iris Jap) June 1913; Jan 1913 E. Meller (6 hp Iris).
Sources: Trove NLA, bicycles.net.au, douglasmotorcycles.net et al
Other marques with this name: Disambiguation
Jackson
HILL CLIMBING CONTEST.
LAUNCESTON, September 27.
Jackson J.A.P. 89-h.p, G. M. Jackson,
34 2-5sec, 31 1-5Sec.
The Mercury (Hobart, Tas.) Mon 28 Sep 1908
G. M. Jackson, with his 9 h.p. Jackson J.A.P. racer, will not, as far as I can learn, be competing in class "H." No doubt he prefers the luxurious upholstering of a Clement-Talbot car seat to the "give" of a B100 Brooks' saddle.
Examiner (Launceston, Tas) Tue 3 Nov 1908
The following year Jackson raced Napier cars in Launceston.
Source: Trove NLA
James Holliday
"Motor Cycles, Motor Cycles, built of Rex parts.
P. & R. accumulator; component sets and
parts. James Holliday, 199 Spring-st., city."
The Age, Melbourne, Sat 7 Feb 1903
This is the only record found, and it is not clear whether the brand name was James Holliday.
Source: Trove NLA
Kelecom
James Hill & Sons of 63 Grenfell Street, Adelaide, assembled motorcycles using Kelecom engines from 1902 to 1904, most of which were sold with the Kelecom name on the tank. The engine was named after Belgian engineer, Paul Kelecom. The 1902 machines used 1¾ or 2¼ hp engines in a BSA bicycle frame set, with the engine mounted on the seat tube. In mid-1903, the engine was mounted in the now conventional position in front of the pedal bracket, with choice of 1¾, 2 ¼, 2 ¾ or 3¼ hp engines. Source: Australia Post.
Kellow 1903 (Melbourne)
King
A light four-stroke advertised for £35 with the slogan "The King is the Monarch of All" in 1911.
Melbourne Motor Transit & Touring Co., of 115 Elizabeth St Melbourne is listed as the sole distributor.
Knight Eaton
Mr Knight Eaton, manager of the Brisbane office of the Austral Cycle Agency, built a motorised bicycle in 1893.
The first motorcycle imported to Australia arrived in Brisbane in late 1895.
"What appears to have been the first power machine of any kind introduced into Queensland was a motor bicycle imported by Mr. Knight-Eaton, then manager of the Austral Cycle Agency (Queensland branch). This was put on at a sports meeting held on the Brisbane Cricket Ground, where it awakened considerable interest."
The Brisbane Courier, Sat 19 Jan 1907 (Trove)
Sources: blog.qagoma.qld.gov.au; Trove NLA
Knut
Registrations SA has the following entry:
"8823, L. J. Hegarty, Willunga, 3½ Knut." The Mail (Adelaide, SA) Sat 21 Oct 1916
This marque is not previously referred to in any way, apparently. The machine was likely fitted with a Blumfield engine referred to as the "Knut Cracker".
Source: Trove NLA
Krown
Manufactured by Jack Krown, corner of Elizabeth and Albert Street, Brisbane.
Krown, a bicycle racer, began riding pacers in 1900 at the Brisbane cycle track.
His motorcycles were fitted with Minerva engines.
A report from July 1905 mentions a 2 horsepower Krown and Spencer. This is David Spencer, a fellow motorcycle racer who also built motorcycles in Brisbane.
"Five-mile Motor Cycle Race, to be contested at the
L.Q.W sports on Saturday...
First heat C. Pond, Krown, 2 ¾ h.p, 40sec."
The Brisbane Courier, Wed 1 Aug 1906
Sources: blog.qagoma.qld.gov.au, Trove.
Lathey
Robert Lathey of East Devonport, Tasmania (1913-16)
Built motorcycles using Precision and Villiers engines.
ACCIDENT TO A CYCLIST.
DEVONPORT, July 11.
Robert Lathey, a cycle machinist, was coming down Moriarty Hill, when his motor-cycle skidded, throwing him violently and breaking his leg. He lay there for some time before another cycle agent came along. He was then placed in a baker's cart, and brought to his home at East Devonport, where Dr. Addison set the limb.
The Mercury (Hobart, Tas.) Wed 12 Jul 1911
Sources: Trove NLA, Simon Fleming.
Leitch
Manufactured by Leitch & Co., Gray St, Hamilton, Victoria.
June 1904, Leitch Motors Built to Order. Ernest Leitch & Co. 385 Lonsdale Street, Melbourne.
March 1912, advertised Leitch motorcycles, £65.
1913 advertised Rudge, Thor, E.W.B. (Melbourne-built), JAP, King Dick, FN, Douglas - but no mention of a Leitch motorcycle.
1914 & 1916 they advertised Indian. 1917 they advertised Leitch Cycles and Indian motorcycles.
A 1912 Grandex rebadged as Leitch was offered for sale in Belgium by hd-classic.be in 2021.
Trove NLA: Hamilton Spectator Tue 21 Sep 1909
N.B. 1. Hamilton had Leitch Pictures (cinema) in those days, possibly related. 2. In 1918 and 1924 there was a Sandford, Leitch Motors in Exhibition St, Melbourne, a car dealer. There is no indication that there was a motorcycle side to this business.
Lewis (Adelaide)
Lewis (VIC)
Based in Williamstown, and later in Melbourne, they are listed as a manufacturer from 1909 until about 1919. The are unrelated to Lewis of Adelaide.
LOB
Manufactured by J. L. Lob & Son, 129 Rundle Street, Adelaide using Minerva engines and BSA rolling chassis, 1904 to c.1907.
The Express and Telegraph (Adelaide, SA) Sat 2 Jun 1906
Source: Trove NLA
Local
Racing motorcycles built in Queenlsand 1906-1908, possibly other years, using 2 ¾ h.p. and 3½ h.p. engines, quite possibly Minerva.
The following records exist:
Ma Belle
Manufactured by Ma-belle Cycle & Motor Works
176 Burke Rd., Camberwell. 1916
Built to order using Precision and JAP engines, 1916 only.
Have your Cycle or Motor Cycle built to your order and specification.
JAP or PRECISION ENGINES.
Agents for all the Leading Makes
Tyres and all accessories
SIDECARS, BUILT BOUGHT & SOLD
Tell us your requirements; we offer you the advantages of our practical experience.
176 BURKE RD., CAMBERWELL
(NEXT TILLEY'S)
Trove NLA: Hawthorn, Kew, Camberwell Citizen. Fri 16 Jun 1916
Magnet 1902 (Vic.)
Mallee
Manufactured by Mallee Cycle Works, Scott Street, Warracknabeal, Victoria, 1905.
Harry H. Mercer built the machine in his workshop using a Minerva engine, and BSA frame components probably sourced from Healing. Only one was built. Later Mercer became an agent for agent for AG Healing & Co.
The Mallee appeared at the 1910 Warrnambool show. It appeared again at the 2021 show, having been restored.
Sources: Saward, Wheatland's Museum Warracknabeal, et al
Malpas
L. Malpas of Bartley Crescent Wayville, Adelaide, built a Peugeot-engined motorcycle in 1913 or earlier. There may have been more than one.
Registration record: September 1, 1913 3570 – Malpas, L., Bartley Crescent, Wayville, 8 Malpas
Wyatt Motoria of Grenfell Street advertised a secondhand Malpas for £25 in 1919.
Sources: Trove NLA, Simon Fleming
Maple by Maplestone, 1907-1915
Martin
Bourke St, 1902-1903, poss other years. Built using BSA components and Minerva engines.
The Age (Melbourne) Fri 26 Dec 1902, Sat 7 Feb 1903
Source: Trove NLA
Other marques with this name: Disambiguation
Massey
Manufactured in Devonport by Don Cycle and Motor Works.
Source: Trove NLA
N.B. There was a "Massey Cycle & Motor Depot" in Benalla, Victoria, in 1913, and a Massey brand existed in Britain, but not until the 1920s - see Disambiguation
The Don Cycle and Motor Works, under the able management of Mr H. Westley, still continues to keep its place as premier cycle shop on Devonport. Here one found the "Massey" motor bike fitted with "Precision" engines in 2½, 3½, and 4 1/4 h.p. grades, priced respectively £55, ; £67 :10s, and £72 10s. This is looked upon as one of the greatest machines of the day and is a famous hill-climbcr, and :s also entirely free from all complications
In ordinary cycles the "Red Bird," "Tourist," "Dominion", and "Dandy" are stocked; all splendid..."
The North West Post (Formby, Tas.) Tue 23 Dec 1913
McLean
William McLean was head of an international hardware and machinery import/export firm with offices in London and New York. Head office was in Elizabeth Street, Melbourne. It is reported that their Adelaide branch built motorcycles in 1903, but no records have been found to substantiate this.
McLEAN BROS & RIGG: 1904 Victoria, Australia is listed by Ozebook.
Source: Trove NLA
See also McLean Biography
Melba
There are three possibilities, at least.
Melba Cycle Works, York Mid. Junction, W.A. 1907
(York is 100km east of Perth.)
Melba Cycle Works, 132 Little Collins Street, Melbourne. 1902.
And this one from Tasmania, 1909:
The riders of two motor cycles named, in accordance with the fashion of motor nomenclature, "Melba" and "Possum," decided to go east about recently, and it is in order to chronicle the experiences that befell them that these notes are written.
Possibly, readers of this column (who, by the way, are not all motorists) may wonder why such names for a contraption of steel, cast iron, aluminium, and india-rubber, but after all, there is a good deal of sentiment in most motorists, who regard their mounts in something of the same light as a horseman does his favourites.
"Melba," a powerful 5-h.p. twin Vindec, received her unofficial designation owing to her musical propensities when running at speed, whilst "Possum," a 3½-h.p. "Triumph." was christened thus from her climbing proclivities, a display of which was given on Maggs' Hill as the twain wended their "spirited" way Scottstdaleward...
Examiner (Launceston, Tas.) Tue 24 Aug 1909
Trove NLA
Merlin
Lucky's need for speed started early - at the age of ten, he says, he motorised a pram and drove it down the road in Dubbo, in Western NSW, a stunt for which he was fined £5/10/-. This may be true. His Merlin started life as the Rolls Royce engine in a Mosquito fighter plane in WWII. Lucky carved two cylinders out of it and added a supercharger and a few other bits to the resulting 5 litre V-twin to make sure it would deliver. It does 400 kph, he says. This may also be true.
Source: abc.net.au
Moller 1904 (S.A.)
Monarch (Footscray)
Manufactured by A. G. Sulman, Monarch Cycle Works, 19 Paisley St,, Footscray. 1917
Source: Trove NLA
A CYCLE BUILT TO ORDER FOR £7 10 0
THE "MONARCH" SPECIALITY.
Cycle and Motor Sundries and Repairs.
MOTOR CYCLES and SIDE CARS, Built to Order.
"Monarch" B.S,A. Special Bicycle, £12 10 0.
A. G. SULMAN "MONARCH" CYCLE WORKS,
19 Paisley St,, Footscray.
Advertiser (Footscray, Vic.) Sat 9 Jun 1917
Mortox Special
Registered South Australia May 1920
16788, W. Venning, Torrensville, 3½ (h.p.) Mortox Special
Appears to be a one-off, as this is the only mention.
Source: Trove NLA
Mumford
Listed by Saward as a motorcycle manufacturer, in 1906 several advertisments ran along these lines: "Mumford's Motor Works, 230 Brunswick-st, Fitzroy. Repairs to Cars, Motor Launches and Motor Cycles."
Firefly and Mumford combined to offer a prize for a bicycle race, so it seems there was a relationship. Also, "Lucy Charlotte Mumford (born DODD), 1869 - 1926 - related to William Hill Dodd (her brother?) who was born on August 25 1888, in Firefly Creek Krambach NSW Australia." ~ Trove. However, the Mumfords in this reference hail from the mid-north coast of NSW - a very long way from Fitzroy.
Munro
New Zealand's Bert Munro of Invercargill is legendary, the stuff of which movies are made. So they did - The World's Fastest Indian.
Nella
Geo. Allen of Nella Cycle Works at 530 Church Street, Richmond advertised in Feb 1910 "MOTOR AND CYCLE ENGINEER, Machines Built to Order. Exchanges & Accessories"
In 1915 advertisments read, "Best Enamelling, Electroplating. 'The Nella.' New address, 398-400 Elizabeth Street, Melbourne"
"The "Nella" sign in the left ground floor window of the building [Finlay Bros, 322 Elizabeth St, c.1910] is thought to refer to the Nella Enamelling Company, run by Mr Henry Allen (Nella being his surname spelt backwards). They were based in Knox Place, a laneway behind Elizabeth Street. Their business would have been involved in doing paintwork on bicycles and may have used part of the Finlay Bros premises." ~ http://www.finlaybrothershistory.info/page40.html
It is not clear whether Nella motorcycles were built - they are not mentioned in Saward.
Sources: Trove, finlaybrothershistory.info
NSW
"Of the riders getting over 35 minutes' start, Featherstone, just arrived from England, is competing on a N.S.W. motor of 3 h. p."
The Sydney Morning Herald, Sat 30 Sep 1905
Two of these appeared in the South Australia registry in 1920, likely transfers or re-registrations.
16463.- R. C. G. Anderson, Mile-End. 3 (h.p.) N.S.W.
Registered SA March 1920
16489.- F. K. G. Boase, Mile-End, 3½ (h.p.) N.S.W.
Registered SA April 1920
Source: Trove NLA.
NZeta
Manufactured by JNZ Manufacturing Ltd at 22 England St, Ponsonby, 1961 to 1963
Assembled using parts imported from CZ along with locally made exhausts and other components. Based on the Czeta 501 and 502 models, some 4000 scooters were built.
Source: nzeta.com
O'Grady
Thomas Patrick O'Grady joined the Lewis firm in 1892.
It appears that first motor-cycle race in the Southern Hemisphere was run at Adelaide Oval on 11 October 1902 and won by T.P. O'Grady on a Lewis machine fitted with an MMC engine. Tom O'Grady was Works Manager at Vivian Lewis Ltd, and also one of the three directors.
O'Grady withdrew as director in 1910 to travel abroad. He resumed his position on his return, and died in 1916.
There is no evidence thus far that he produced machines under his own name. It may be that the O'Grady mentioned as a manufacturer is a different person to T.P.
Sources: primotipo.com, earlymotor.com, Mortat cemetery Peronne on FB, et al
Pappin
Manufactured E. B. Pappin, at Kensington Cycle Works, Bridge Street, Kensington S.A.
The firm was in business from at least 1902, and motorcycles fitted with JAP V-twins are known to have been built in 1914 and 1915.
Registrations:
Pappin JAP 1915 Motorcycle Radloff SA
veterancarclub.org.au TAVCCA Index
16866. - H. R. Gilmour, Torrens road, Brompton, 6 (h.p.) Pappin J.A.P.
Registered SA June 1920 (possibly a re-registration) (Trove)
Sources: Trove NLA, et al
Pirie
Ellen Street, Port Pirie, South Australia.
Manufactured by Archibald Limb at the Port Pirie Pioneer Cycle and Motor Cycling Works from 1903 to 1914. Believed to be the first motorcycle built in South Australia, the 1903 Pirie was powered by a Minerva engine.
A 1908 advertisement states "The Pirie Lightweight Twin Cylinder Motor Cycles are reliable and sure."
Sources: vvmccsa.org.au, portpirierecorder.com.au, Trove NLA.
Planet
John Oliver of Planet Cycle Works in High Street Kew, Melbourne, had produced conventional motorcycles under the Planet and Planet Aero marques. His son Monty related that John had arrived home a little the worse for wear after a session at the local, then sat and drew up the plans for this behemoth on a piece of brown paper - reminiscent of another Australian story, the sketch of the Vincent V-twin on the back of a beer coaster (of which Phil Irving gives a rather different account). Construction took place between 1913 and 1915, and when The Planet became a reality it could reputedly achieve the very respectable speed of 85 m.p.h - but just where he found roads suitable for such extraordinary speeds is a mystery, bearing in mind that the recently set record for a run from Sydney to Melbourne averaged 18mph along the Hume Highway - a narrow dirt road lined with gum trees and rutted by carts and carriages. In the sixties and early seventies parts of the old dirt highway were still plainly visible running parallel to the two-lane concrete-coated road.
Source: Museum Victoria
Further reading: The Hume Highway with a foreword by Peter FitzSimons
Platt-Betts
Tandem Pacer built in Sydney, 1901
Source: Trove NLA
Referee (Sydney, NSW) Wed 19 Jun 1901
Pride
Manufactured by FB Puckridge Co., Port Lincoln, South Australia
Produced motorcycles powered by Minerva engines from 1905 to 1910.
Sources: OTTW, Trove NLA.
Prince (NSW)
Manufactured by The Prince Cycle & Motor Works, West Maitland, NSW.
Built from 1903 to at least 1904 using Minerva, Clement-Garrard and Sarolea engines.
Source: Trove NLA
Trove NLA: The Maitland Daily Mercury, Sat 19 Sep 1903
Prince
Terry Prince built exotic specials in Sydney under the Prince banner, having previously worked with Fritz Egli. In 1996 he partnered with Ron Slender to form RTV, which continued to build specials powered by Vincent engines. In 2012 he began working with Fritz Egli Jnr on another development.
Sources: egli-vincent.net, tpv-vincent.de, et al
Regnis
Matheson & Ripper, 295 Lonsdale St, Melbourne.
Numerous models were built for Regnis from 1912 to 1920, most of them by A. G. Healing. These included the Peerless fitted with JAP, MAG, King Dick, Precision and De Luxe engines, all of which were sold under the Regnis brand.
Originally named Lamande & McColl, the firm which marketed the Regnis changed its name several times before becoming Matheson & Ripper.
Sources: Simon Fleming, Trove NLA, et al
N.B. The word "regnis" is derived from a Latin word meaning "king". Terms referring to royalty abound in the motorcycle world - see Disambiguation
Relay
Built by E. Fuller (or A.E. Fuller) of Albury in 1905, and referred to as both Relay and Relay-Minerva, it was powered by a Minerva engine.
Source: Trove NLA
Mr E. Fuller, of Albury, established a fine motor cycle performance last week by riding from Melbourne to Albury, a distance of 201 miles, in the record time of 9 hrs. 3 min. Only those motorists or cyclists who have ever been over the wretched roads and tracks extending from Sydney almost right up to Albury, have any conception of what fast motoring is like over this country.
Mr Fuller's mount was a Dunlop shod, spring frame, Relay 2¾ h.p. motor cycle, and the fact that the machine went through this rough country at an average speed of 22 miles an hour is conclusive proof that a reliable and durable motor cycle can be properly assembled in these States.
Weekly Times (Melbourne) Sat 14 Jan 1905
Entrants in the Dunlop Reliability Motor Contest from Sydney to Melbourne
A. E. Fuller. N.S.W. (2¾ h.p. Relay)...
Table Talk (Melbourne, Vic.) Thu 16 Feb 1905
Rival
A 3½ h.p. racing machine built by N. Saunders in 1905.
Saunders, the winner, thoroughly deserved his luck. He rode a Rival motor, manufactured by himself, and by his victory last Saturday, has the unique record of annexing four first prizes and one second out of five attempts...
The following is the result, with the start and riding time of the successful competitors:
N. Saunders, 3½ Rival, start 3m, riding time 50m 30s... 1
J. Jarman, 2¾ Jarman, start 11m, time 1h 15m 10s... 2
J. Doherty, 4½ Buchet, scratch, time lh 17m... 3
A. J .Powell, 4 h.p. Surrey, 8m start, time lh 18m 22s... 4
The Sydney Morning Herald Mon 27 Nov 1905
Motorcycle Racing NSW (1905)
Source: Trove NLA
Rolfe
Manufactured by Herbert Rolfe, 30 Armstrong Street North, Ballarat c.1914-1915.
An advertisement stated "Rolfe Motors are your best investment in Motors - like the Cycles are Sure, Safe, Speedy, and Guaranteed".
Born in Birmingham, England, his father was cyclist John Rolfe. Herbert enlisted in 1916 at the age of 39 and was repatriated from France by hospital ship in 1917.
Source: Federation University Historical Collection - bih.federation.edu.au
Rollert
Manufactured by Pippard, Pender Motor C. Pty. Ltd of 97-101 Little Collins Street Melbourne.
The same address was that of Glenferrie Motor Garage 1912-1913.
LATEST NEW MOTOR CYCLE
"THE ROLLERT" ... £45
2¼-HORSE-FOWER, Light Weight, beautifully sprung and well-finished. £45, Complete.
WINTER, TAYLOR, PROP., LTD.
CENTRAL GARAGE,
MALOP-STREET.
Phone 1522
Geelong Advertiser (Vic.) Sat 3 Jul 1915
ROLLERT. The Best and Cheapest
ROLLERT. . proposition in
ROLLERT.. . two-stroke
ROLLERT. Machines.
ROLLERT. Immediate deliveries.
PIPPARD, PENDER MOTOR C. PTY. LTD., 97 to 101 L. Collins Street.
The Argus (Melbourne, Vic) Wed 31 Mar 1915
The same firm advertised a shipment of new... "Rollert Motor-cycles. Can be bought at landed cost price." May 1915. Advertised in June.
July 1915, Auction Sale: "4 ROLLERT'S MOTOR-BICYCLES, 2½ h.p. 2-Stroke." Along with a number of other motorcycles from Pippard.
Feb 1916: "Mr Reginald Walker, manager of Pippard Pender Motor Company returned to business, having just recovered from a serious illness."
In Sept 1916 they advertised only car repairs. They were also mentioned in the law courts.
Registrations SA
Rollert
16650, T. Butler, Minlaton,, 2¾ (h.p.) Rollert.
Registered SA May 1920
Rollert
17917, W. E. Dungey, Mundalla, 2¾ (h.p.) Rollert.
Registered SA Dec 1920
Source: Trove NLA
The Rose (Shepparton, Vic.)
Rosenthal
Built in Renmark, South Australia. Advertised in 1913 only.
"COME WATCH IT BEING BUILT.
Your ROSENTHAL Cycle
Or your ROSENTHAL Motor Cycle.
ROSENTHAL, the Cycle & Motor Manufacturer."
Renmark Pioneer, Fri 30 May 1913
Source: Trove NLA
Sampson
Leon Mitchel writes "Sampson's, 108 Pulteney Street in Adelaide c.1921."
Results from Trove:
1. 1920 Sampson's 158 Rundle St sold motorcycle tyres, accessories etc, but no Samson or other brand of MC mentioned.
2. 1924 Sampsons sold bicycles, 164-166 Pulteney St.
Sources: Leon Mitchel, Trove NLA.
Sarich Orbital Engines (W.A.)
Sol Invictus
Assembled in Alexandria NSW using mainly Chinese components. The firm began production in 2007.
92 McEvoy Street Alexandria NSW
101 Hunter St Newcastle
Source: Wikipedia
Solar (NZ)
It seems likely that Solar NZ rebranded Sun motorcycles. See Sun Motorcycles
Southern Cross
Built by the Harris brothers of Kellyville NSW. Only four were constructed, one of which has been restored. They built their own engines and fitted them to frames and running gear from various sources.
The Sister-in-Law of Norm Askew (of Wiley Park) sold the bike to Bob Levy (of speedway fame) and it was later in the hands of Ray Owen, who restored it at considerable cost. It changed hands again and then was bought by a member of the Harris brothers family.
An engine also survives and is in Tasmania.
Source: Howard Burrows at EML
Other marques with this name: Disambiguation
Sovereign Tas.
Speedway
South Australian registry records for January 1920 mention "15857. S. W. Grabia, Yorketown, 2¼ Speedway."
There is no other mention in the press of such a marque, and it does not appear in Saward.
In Jan 1917 an article reads, "A young man named Grabia proceeded on a motor cycle to Yorketown (nine miles distant) for medical aid. Dr. Russell was soon on the scene, and found that Baker had sustained an injury to the spine."
Source: Trove NLA
Sporton
Manufactured by Peter Gardiner Enterprises Pty Ltd, Old Cleveland Road Capalaba.
The firm also built RTV engines, and is involved in aviation. Peter flies a Yak-52.
The Sporton housed a Harley-Davidson Sportster engine in a Norton Featherbed Wideline frame, available as a kit for AUD$5000, or as a complete machine for just under $20k.
Sources: ozebook.com, et al
Stolford
Edwin Ebenezer Odd and his son Edwin, from Ryde, were exhibiting their Stolford motor bicycles in 1902.
Entrants in the Dunlop Reliability Motor Contest from Sydney to Melbourne
F. Odd. N.S.W. (3½ h.p. Stolford)
Table Talk (Melbourne, Vic.) Thu 16 Feb 1905
Sources: Jenny Fawbert via VMCC NSW; Trove NLA.
Sunlight
R.J. Dean of Dean's Motor Garage in Breadalbane, Launceston is listed in Saward in relation to the Sunlight motorcycle. The brand does not appear in any of the newspapers of the day.
FOR SALE
DEAN'S Motor Garage.— For sale, owner leaving State: 2 Buick cars, 1 new 5-6 H.P. Motor Cycle, 1 Douglas Motor; also number of second hand cycles, thoroughly renovated. Large quantity of motor cycle accessories, to be sold at cost. 25 cases benzine, at 21/6 per case; motor oils and greases, etc., etc.
Call or write particulars R. J. DEAN, Breadalbane.
Daily Telegraph (Launceston, Tas.) Sat 9 Sep 1916
Source: Trove, et al
Tasma
Advertised as "Tasma Fafna" and "Tasma Fafina".
Manufactured in 1911 (and possibly other years) by Sim King, proprietor of the Tasma Cycle Factory, 87 Brisbane St, Launceston, which built the Tasma Rover and the Imperial Rover bicycles. (1910)
See also Bilyard & King.
'A MOTOR AND CYCLE' SALE AT BIG REDUCTIONS!
...
No. 1 "Tasma Fafina "
5 6 h.p. Twin Cylinder, Magneto
Druid Spring Forks, Padded
Saddle, 2 1/2 Tyres only shop-soiled
Will sacrifice.
SIM KING.
TASSY BIKE AND MOTOR K!NG,
Examiner (Launceston, Tas.) Thu 30 Nov 1911
Source: Trove NLA
Teece
C. S. Teece is listed as having built a motorcycle of this name in 1913 with a 3½ JAP engine.
MR. C. S. TEECE
Motor cyclists will be glad to learn that the well-known expert, Mr C. S. Teece, has been offered and has accepted the position of Technical Editor to the new paper 'The Australian Motor Cycle.' No name is better known throughout the motor cycling community of Australia than that of Mr Teece, as an expert in the theoretical side of motor cycles, and combined with this he possesses a thorough mechanical knowledge gained by a sound course of training in motor cycle workshop practice. With such high qualifications and a fearless sense of what is right in motor cycle work, Mr Teece is bound to 'make good' in his new sphere of work, and will I am sure as time goes on add to the present high esteem in which he is held by all motor cyclists who have come in contact with him, whether personally or by his writings.
Winner (Melbourne, Vic. : 1914 - 1917) Wed 17 Nov 1915
Winner (Melbourne, Vic.) Wed 23 Aug 1916
The Age (Melbourne) Mon 28 Aug 1916
Sources: Simon; Trove NLA
Terry
Manufactured by A.E.Terry of Adelaide, c.1905.
Sources: Trove NLA, et al
Mr Archie Campbell was asked to carry the post on his motor cycle, and if possible to intercept the train leaving Launceston at 3.20 for the North-West Coast. The messenger left the southern capital at 11 o'clock, passed Oatlands at 1, and found no difficulty in reaching Perth in ample time to hand the bag over to the guard of the tram. Mr Campbell rode a 2½ h.p. Terry motor cycle.
Daily Telegraph (Launceston, Tas.) Mon 8 Jan 1906
This would be the same Archibald Campbell who built Campbell motorcycles in Hobart 1902-04.
Thumpstar
Manufactured by Timothy Hunter, a motor-cycle dealer and racer, from 2004. The firm initially built pitbikes and minibikes, and later developed 125 and 140cc offroad machines. There were plans to market 250 and 300cc dirt machines produced by GasGas in Spain.
They also market Ebikes.
Sources: Wikipedia, thumpstar.com.au
Image courtesy Terry Parker of the VVMCSA.
Trescowthick
In 1903 Charles Trescowthick of Adelaide built his first vehicle as a phaeton, with four large wheels and a light body, powered by a 3½ h.p. De Dion engine. This machine was later converted to a tricar.
Sources: The Advertiser, 12 October 1954 (vccsa.org.au); de.zxc.wiki; et al
Tyler
This marque is mentioned by Simon Fleming but extensive searches of Trove have proved fruitless. Eric Tyler's name appears frequently, but he is not mentioned in connection with this marque. That said, one of the machines he rode was the Brooklands, of which there is also little information, so it is possible that that machine is a rebadged bike, and the Tyler may be too. The hunt continues...
In 1914 Tyler was on the staff of the Hendee Manufacturing Co.
Source: Trove
Vee Two (Perth)
Veribest (Tas)
Victa (NSW)
Victor (SA) 1919-1921
Wagener
Image courtesy Terry Parker of the VVMCSA.
Walker Bullpup
Built in 1927 using a 980cc V-Twin, it appears to be a one-off and does not appear in Saward. The machine, reg# OT891, is discussed in an article in The Classic Motorcycle of March 2021.
Source: ozebook.com
Watson (Adelaide)
Believed to have been built in Unley, Adelaide, around 1905.
"Claud Kerrison has just arrived in Adelaide after doing a thousand miles tour around the Peninsular and North country on his Watson motor cycle." Quiz (Adelaide, SA) Fri 3 Nov 1905
Source: Trove NLA
Other marques with this name: Disambiguation
Watson (Sydney)
A motorcycle of this brand is listed as being built in Sydney prior to WWI.
The Sun newspaper of 25th March 1913 writes: "A little time ago Mr. Daft took over Mr. Frank Watson's cycle works at Burwood."
bicycles.net.au lists:
Watson, R., Sydney Road, Granville, 1910
Watson, George R., 88 South Street, Granville, 1911-1932
Sources: Simon Fleming, Trove NLA
West
Manufactured by West's Cycles, 769 Hay Street. Perth, WA
Built in 1920 using single-cylinder J.A.P. 2½ h.p. engines, a 2-speed Burman gearbox and other English components, they were painted French grey with green trim, with the frame, spokes, rims and guards etc in black enamel.
A Local Product
A wonderful machine is the locally-built J.A.P.-engined West motor cycle, samples of which can be inspected at 769 Hay-street. The builders challenge comparison with other machines, and defy financial considerations.
A handy list of motor accessories, parts, spares, tools, and sundries, together with tires, etc., are obtainable at the Agency, and each item is priced at the lowest figure compatible with the provision of quality and service possibilities.
Call (Perth, WA) Fri 8 Oct 1920
The Motor Cycle that is built to suit West Australian Conditions
Write or call now for further information. Only a few left.
SPECIFICATION AND EQUIPMENT,
Engine: 2½ h.p. J.A.P., latest Type.
Carburetter: Brown and Barlow.
Magneto: Thomspon Bennett (Water-proof). All British.
Gear Box: "Burnam" [sic] 2 Speed with Hand Control Clutch and Positive Kick Start,
Forks: Druid (Latest Type).
Saddles Lycett (De Luxe), extra large.
Wheels: 25 x 2 1/2 Built with 10 gauge Spokes and Nipples.
Tyres: Dunlop, or own selection.
Hubs: British Hub Coy. (extra large and strong), 7-16 Axles.
Mudguards: Wide, with Valances.
Belts: English Dunlop, 3/4 in.
Oiling: Best and Lloyd. Semi-automatic Sight Feed.
Control: Bowden, with Water proof Casing.
Tranmission: Chain Brampton, 1/2 x 3-16 extra strong (covered with strong Steel Cover).
Brake: Rear Wheel, Heal operation.
Footboards: Aluminium
Finish: Frame, Wheels, Hubs, Spokes, Black Enamel (4 coats), Tank — French Grey, with Green panels and lines.
Capacity: 1 gallon Petrol; 1 pint Oil.
Mileages 100 per gallon
SPECIAL PRICE FOR TWO WEEKS ONLY- £100.
WEST CYCLES LTD., 769 HAY STREET, PERTH
The Daily News (Perth) Sat 2 Apr 1921
Source: Trove NLA
Whalley
Albert Whalley of North Brunswick, Melbourne, is listed as having constructed motorcycles with Fafnir engines in 1911-1912.
Albert James Whalley was fined ten shillings for speeding on his motor cycle along Sydney Road, Brunswick, in 1910. Other than this the press was silent on his exploits.
Sources: Simon Fleming, Trove NLA
Whitbourn
Saward lists Walter Whitbourn Pty. Ltd. of Melbourne as producing two motorcycles of 2¾ h.p. in 1910. These are not mentioned in the newspapers of the day.
The agents, Walter Whitbourn Pty. Ltd., 58 a'Beckett-street, have only been able to land a small shipment, consisting of complete cars and chassis. Intending purchasers should take an early opportunity of inspecting, as it is very problematical how long the few cars at present in stock will remain unsold...
Graphic of Australia (Melbourne, Vic.) Fri 7 Jun 1918
Walter Whitbourn Pty. Ltd.
Phone 8081. 58 A'BECKETT STREET, Oakland Cars
The Herald (Melbourne, Vic) Mon 31 Jul 1916
Whitbourn advertised Paige cars in 1919
Sources: Simon Fleming; Trove NLA
Wimmera
Manufactured in 1914/1915 by Wimmera Motor and Engineering Works of Stawell, Victoria, run by Deards and Akins. The address was given as "Behind Post Office".
In December of 1915 the business had changed hands. New partners were Young and Ledgar, but there was no further word of the Wimmera motor cycle. In December of 1917 the address was Wimmera Street, Stawell, and they were selling Ford cars.
In 1920 they advertised Studebaker and Palm cars, and Indian motor cycles.
Messrs H. Deards and C. H. Akins intimate that they have entered into partnership and will conduct the Wimmera Motor and Engineering Works, which are fully equipped with a complete up-to-date plant. The firm is prepared to build motor-cycles, with which they will give a guarantee. Under the new management every effort will be made to give satisfaction to their clients.
Stawell News and Pleasant Creek Chronicle (Vic.) Sat 25 Jul 1914
Wimmera Motor and Engineering Works
Messrs Deards and Akins, of the Wimmera motor and engineering works, Stawell, build and guarantee the Wimera motor cycle, one of which we inspected the other day. It is a fine machine, admirably adapted for its purpose, and thoroughly reliable. This enterprising firm has many "spokes to its wheel," for it installs electric lights and bells, overhauls cars, cleans engines, and is agent for the famous Dunlop tyres. All accessories, oil, petrol and other necessaries are stocked.
Stawell News and Pleasant Creek Chronicle (Vic.) Tue 27 Apr 1915
Source: Trove NLA
Windsor
A. W. Johnson of 6 Chapel Street Windsor, Melbourne, is listed as a motorcycle manufacturer in 1912-1913 using British and Continental engines. The only advertisement in Victorian newspapers of the era which has surfaced mentions bicycles, but not motorcycles.
The Age (Melbourne, Vic.) Sat 29 Jun 1912
Source: Trove NLA
Winton
Manufactured by Alexander Johnson, 171 St. George's Road, North Fitzroy, Melbourne in 1909 and 1910.
ALEXANDER JOHNSON,
CYCLE and MOTOR MECHANIC,
171 St. George's Road, NORTH FITZROY.
Builder of the "WINTON" Cycles and Motors.
Motor Car Tyres Supplied and Repaired.
Gas & Oil Engines repaired. Sundries Stocked.
Table Talk (Melbourne, Vic.) Thu 4 Aug 1910
Similar advertisements appeared from Oct 1909 to Oct 1910. There are no other mentions of the marque other than the well-known American machines built by Alexander Winton.
Source: Trove NLA
N.B. Perhaps there is a relationship between the Winton by Alexander Johnson of 1909-1910 and the Windsor of A.W. Johnson of 1911, built just a few miles apart.
Wizard
Indications are that this was built in Kadina in 1914 or slightly earlier. Middlebrook's of nearby Wallaroo appear frequently in the press in those years but do not advertise that they build motorcycles.
Kadina Motor Garage of Digby Street sold Humber motorcycles in 1910.
P. L. Annear's Motor and Cycle Works of Wallaroo advertised Rudge and Douglas in 1915, and also that year there was an Empire Cycle store in Hallett St.
Vivian Lewis had a branch in Kadina from 1910 into the 1920s.
SA Registrations 1918
12272. L J. McLean. Wallaroo. 2½ Wizard.
12724. A. E. Addicoat., 8 Jaffrey Street, Parkside 2½ Wizard
FOR SALE, Cheap — Four 2 Stroke MotorCycles. James, Hockley, Radco, Wizard. Apply - MIDDLEBROOK'S Motor Garage, Wallaroo.
The Kadina and Wallaroo Times (SA) Sat 29 Dec 1917
(Wallaroo is 9km west of Kadina. Hockley is another Australian brand.)
Two or three business places changed hands last week, the principal one being Mr H. A. Middlebrook'a motor garage to Mr O. Palmer. Mr Middlebrook conducted a large business in Owen Terrace, and was highly respected as a townsman and business man. He and his family are removing to Adelaide.
Eyre's Peninsula Tribune (Cowell, SA) Fri 31 May 1918
Source: Trove NLA
Woolston
Manufactured by B. B. Woolston, Eudunda in 1905 using Minerva and Brown engines.
Cycle and Motor Building Establishment,
Cycles built to Order from £7 10s
Best Motors only Built to Order. Brown
or Minerva. Prices from £45 to £60,
A Real First-class Minerva Motor, B.3.A. parts, 3 1/2 hp-, for sale at £50, only just tested. This a bargain. Trial given.
A FIRST-CLASS EDISON CONCERT PHONOGRAPH, 5-inch cylinder and 14 records, for sale at £12 10s. Bargain. Cost £40. Write for particulars.
WATCHES, CLOCKS. JEWELLERY, AND ALL KINDS OF REPAIRS
Kapunda Herald (SA ) Fri 26 May 1905
There was also an F. W. Woolston of Jamestown (about 100 miles away) who had S.A. registration numbers 121 and 122 in 1907. In 1911 he had #1573, with a De Dion Bouton engine.
Source: Trove NLA
Wyatt S.A.
Yelroma
Built in 1915 by AC Morley of Minalton, South Australia, this was a 3½ h.p. motorcycle.
In January 1911 the sale of the land and premises housing "MR. A. C. MORLEY, who is retiring from business..." appeared in the local newspaper. The sale included tools of trade, 3 bicycles, a car and a motorcycle.
Streaky Bay Agricultural Show.
Quite a number of exhibits not for competition were shown to advantage. The exhibit of the Eyre's Peninsula Trading Co. displayed by Mr A. C. Morley consisting of Morris Cowley, and Morris London cars, a Victoria player piano, a Vulcan 30cwt. truck, Levis motorcycles, and a Bullock cycle were worthy of special mention.
West Coast Sentinel (Streaky Bay, SA) Sat 10 Oct 1925
Morley's Motor Cycle Sales mentioned, Port Lincoln Times 1951.
There was also a J.E. Morley motorcycle dealer in Grenfell St. Adelaide who sold Hobart motorcycles.
Sources: Simon Fleming; Trove NLA.
YZR
Manufactured by YZR Engineering Pty Ltd of Beresford Road, Lilydale, Victoria.
The company was established in 1994 by John Redding who began producing Yamaha-based four-stroke machines in 1998.
The YZR company ceased trading in 2013, and John Redding went on to head the Yamaha Superbike Racing Team in Australia. He also heads YRD which produces components for Yamaha competition machines including YZ125/250, the WR series, and the FX.
Sourced: asic.gov.au; Simon Fleming; mcnews.com.au; et al
Zeta S.A.
A brief note about motorcycles represented on Australian Postage Stamps
