British

Today in Motorcycle History

Rolfe

Rolfe motorcycles were produced between 1912 and 1913 at Bridge Street in Smethwick.

In 1905 a 2¾ h.p. Rolfe-Goode motorcycle competed successfully in the 1905 London to Edinburgh Run with rider H. E. Cowles.

1912 Late in the year a machine was built using a 6hp V-twin Precision engine, Rolfe three-speed gearbox, chain drive and Saxon forks.

1913 The original model was then joined by a single fitted with a 3½ hp JAP engine, still with gearbox and all-chain drive. Their sidecar chassis had the wheel spindle supported on both sides, and it was constructed from straight tubing. It appears motorcycle production ended that year, and in 1916 the Rolfe firm joined forces with J.A. Phillips and Co, who made bicycle components. The resultant firm was acquired in 1920 by Tube Investments and continued production into the 1970s.

Source: Graces Guide



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