Centaur Motorcycles

1901 The machines first appeared as primitive but well built.

Centaur 1902-1904 Models

1904 The silencer was used as the frame downtube between headstock and crankcase. It had a 348 cc 3hp engine with valves at the front of the cylinder and braced forks incorporated a rubber buffer to take some of the road shocks. It also had belt or a two-stage chain-drive. Another model had an inclined engine, which replaced the downtube as in the Humber and P and M design. A forecar was also offered.

1905 The silencer reverted to being a separate item and was no longer part of the frame.

1906 The 3hp model continued for that year. Manufacture then stopped for a few years.

1910 Humber took over the company. Production resumed with standard and TT models, both fitted with a 3½ hp engine, with valves at the front of the cylinder. The standard model had a Bosch magneto ahead of the crankcase and sprung forks, the TT version was rigid with a rear-mounted magneto. Two ran in the TT, but neither was successful.

1911 That year saw the arrival of a free-engine clutch and a 3½ hp vertical twin with overhead inlet-valves.

1912 Various models were available from 2hp to 3½ hp and there was also a ladies' version. Four models continued for the next two years. These were re-badged Humbers.

1914 The marque disappeared.

N.B. Several other firms used variations of the Centaur brand.

1897 The New Centaur Cycle Co was registered on 27 February, to take over the business of the Centaur Cycle Co.

1906 In January, the original name was reverted to.

1912 Listed in Spennell's directory of Coventry as Cycle Manufacturers.