At the age of 12 Bruno Rossati began working eleven hour days.
"Now, approaching 91, I find myself reminiscing about my youth, still riding my motorcycle every day.
Letter re Ladetto
1932 Models Under Test
Not so long ago folks used to look on two-strokes as practically spindly two-wheeled toys which hardly housed enough punch to be called horse-power. But keen study of this way of thinking and stoical perserverance has been instrumental in bringing the modern two-stroke into the "real motor cycle" category.
This lesson is knocked home in no uncertain manner by the 1932 model 147 cc. two-stroke Excelsior, which was road tested by this journal recently. "Nothing undersize" seems to be the keynote of this machine's layout. From fore to aft nothing has been skimped. Full-sized 25 x 2.75 tyres, large-sized headlamp and saddle-tank, and generous mudguards give a husky appearance to the machine, which is at once pleasing.
Suburban Test.
As this model is essentially a runabout - ideal for riding to work - it was decided to try it out over an average suburban route, with a special dose of hill climbing. The two-speed foot change gear lever, which is fitted in place of the customary hand change, was found a little tricky at first, but a little practice made it extremely handy and simple in operation.
The machine being brand new the engine was a trifle on the stiff side, but starting was merely a matter of a gentle push on the K.S. Controlability was decidedly good, and the machine contentedly ate up the miles.
Gallant Climber.
The real hill climbing test given the Excelsior was the ascent of the rise in Glenferrie road, south of the Kooyong tennis courts. This pinch is one of the stiffest to be found in the suburbs. The little Excelsior knuckled down to the climb with pleasing zest, but owing to the newness of the motor it was found inadvisable to open up the works to a great extent. However, it was not necessary to change down except for the last 50 yards. Properly run in, the machine would have made a picnic of the climb.
Riding comfort was excellent as two-strokes go, while the petrol fuel consumption (petroil) worked out at 145 m.p.g.
Everything considered the 147 cc. Excelsior is a stylish, easy-starting, comfortable, and most economical mount which should bring satisfaction to those who want to "go places" cheaply, reliably, and with justified dignity.
Australian Cycling & Motor Cycling magazine, July 1932. Trove NLA
