emu
Scandinavian Motorcycles

Today in Motorcycle History

 Logo

Estlander Mopeds and Scooters

Manufactured by Estlander Motors A/S, Roskilde.

Estlander marketed mopeds and scooter-mopeds powered by BFC and Express engines, as well as their own Estlander engines which were supplied to other manufacturers including Radexi, Skylon, Brandenborg, Wooler, Wittler, and ASE of Finland.

They distributed Express engines in Denmark under the name Tecnik.

ROAD TEST REPORT

The Estlander "SWELL"

THE evolution of the cyclemotor towards the more elaborate mo-ped is now being continued in its natural direction by the development of the light scooter and in this phase of the change there is particular interest in a recent test we have been able to make of a machine from Denmark.

The Estlander SWELL is not so much a hybrid design of mo-ped scooter as a clever incorporation of the essential characteristics of both types in one machine. It is a complete and modern scooter in appearance, fully enclosed, leg-shielded and smooth lined. It has broad, fat footboards and conventional controls. A point of particular interest is that the "body'" is a one-piece assembly in resin bonded glass fibre which provides great strength and impact resistance combined with light weight.

On the other hand the Swell is a true mo-ped in that it has a 50 c.c. engine with 2-speed gear and pedals. The footboards fold up to provide access to the pedals and can be kicked down again while riding.

In the course of testing the sample machine brought over from Denmark, by the Termique Company, we found that it is very easy to handle, comfortable, thanks to fore and aft springing and an almost vibrationless engine, and commendably quiet as to exhaust silencing. The engine is not very powerful but its smoothness and flexibility make it useful and most attractive in traffic.

The wide footboards and full height legshields provide very complete weather protection and the screening of the engine and transmission by the all-enclosing body is absolute. There can be no trace of oil on the rider's clothes from that source.

Criticisms are confined entirely to light but noticeable mechanical whine, apparently from the primary drive and a certain amount of inlet roar when the throttle is well open. These would not be noticed if the exhaust were not so quiet but they spoil the otherwise perfect impression of technical refinement. The rather low maximum power output from the engine limits the machine to local riding in fairly level territory, but the speeds of 17 m.p.h. in 1st gear and 27 m.p.h. in Top are adequate for the kind of user to whom such machines will make most appeal.

At the time of writing no decision has been made about the importation of this machine into Britain. We will give further news as soon as this is known.

Power and Pedal, July 1956 (icenicam.org)

If you have information about this Danish motorcycle marque please contact us