Centaur Motorcycles

Centaur Motor Cycles

Centaur 1912 Models

THE CENTAUR "FEATHERWEIGHT."

THIS machine admittedly stands in a class by itself. One of the very few machines which can legitimately claim that its title is no misnomer, it is capable, though only 2 h.p., of accomplishing performances which many machines of much larger nominal H.P. signally fail to equal.

It climbs most hills without assistance; will, on decent roads, do thirty to thirty-five miles an hour, and starts without the least exertion. One of its principal charms is the way in which traffic can be negotiated at five miles per hour.

For economy it is without rival and eighty miles on half a gallon of petrol is a very average consumption, whilst an expert has no difficulty in getting one hundred miles to the half gallon.

Exquisitely finished and thoroughly equipped, it is an ideal mount for the professional and middle-aged man.


THE LADIES' CENTAUR "FEATHERWEIGHT"

(2 H.P.)

THIS elegant little machine has been introduced for the use of the "fair sex" who are now evincing such a lively interest in motors of all descriptions.

We can claim it is the lightest ladies' machine of its power made. The frame is so designed as to allow the skirt to hang gracefully, and there is little in the appearance when mounted, between this and an ordinary lady's cycle. The engine and fittings are similar to those used on the Gent's Lightweight, and the petrol capacity is about a hundred miles.

The control is entirely from the handlebars. Light, neat, powerful, fast, easy to mount, start and handle, it is one of the most suitable, comfortable, reliable and well protected machines on the market for ladies' use.


THE CENTAUR "MODEL ROYAL"

(3½ H.P.).

THIS machine is eminently suited to hilly districts, where power is a "Sine qua non." Embodying as it does every accepted principle adopted in up-to-date motor construction, it is undoubtedly one of the best machines of its class. The many wonderful performances it has accomplished in the past are sufficient evidence of its general efficiency, whilst its reliability is too well known to need comment.

The general accessibility of all the working parts and the ease of replacements make it admirably suited for "Solo" touring purposes. As in the other models, " efficiency" is one of its chief characteristics.


THE CENTAUR "MODEL SUPERB"

(3½ H.P., TWO SPEEDS).

THIS machine was specially designed for side car work, for which purpose it has turned out most successful. Light, considering the complete manner in which it is equipped, powerful and easily controlled, it cannot fail to meet with favour. The control is entirely from the handlebar and pedals and the range of speed varies from eight to forty-five miles per hour, according to gear and general conditions.

Finished in the best possible style, and thoroughly protected, it is an ideal touring machine, which for value has no superior.


THE CENTAUR "LIGHTWEIGHT."

(2¾ TWIN CYLINDER).

THIS machine is a new introduction for 1912. It has come through long and very severe tests most satisfactorily. Lighter than any other twin cylinder machine of its power, it is sure to take its place in the very forefront of the twin cylinder ranks. All the accumulated experience gained during the twelve years we have been making motor cycles has been brought to bear in its production.

In design it is a combination of every refinement at present known to the motor trade. We state without fear of contradiction that it is the most powerful machine for its bore and stroke ever produced. The price at which it is listed compares very favourably with the high-class machines of other makes.


2 h.p. Ladies Model

Mechanically operated valves, side by side; B. & B. carburetter; belt; Armstrong three-speed hub gear. The machine is particularly well designed, and should gain a large measure of popularity. The complication of small parts usually associated with ladies' models is done away with, and the gear makes it a mount capable of going anywhere. A sensible and neat dress guard over the belt is employed, and also an aluminium fender covering the whole top part of the cylinder.
The Motor Cycle Nov 23rd 1911,

1912 Olympia Show

Centaur, Stand No. 89.

  • 3½ h.p. Model (single-cylinder) : 84x85 mm.; side by side valves; Amac carburetter; belt; Armstrong VI.

The Centaur Co., Ltd., Coventry.

The new Centaur model may be distinguished by square cylinder radiating ribs. In most respects, however, they are similar to last year's model. The tank is circular and lubrication is by an enclosed pump. Neat rubber-covered footboards are fitted as standard.

The Armstrong mark VI. hub gear is used. A neat kick-starter is fitted on the off side, consisting of a pedal, which drives the rear hub clutch by a short length of chain. The magneto is gear driven, and lies behind the engine well out of the way of mud and water. The gear is operated by a single pedal, but the clutch may be held out by means of a spring catch. The rear rim brake is interesting in that the shoe is of unusual length; it operates inside the V of a dummy belt rim. The shoe is pivoted so that the full length of the shoe accommodates itself to the radius of the rim.

The front mudguard has side wings extending its full length, and the rear guard is hinged and has a neat belt protector attached to it. The carrier is of ample dimensions, and supports pannier toolbags which do not interfere with the luggage accommodation. The spring forks are of the Druid type made under licence. A large expansion box is fitted across the frame in front of the engine, which renders the exhaust extremely quiet.

1912 Olympia Show
The Motor Cycle Nov 28th 1912, p386


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