Sunbeam Motorcycles

Today in Motorcycle History

John Greenwood of Sunbeam

John Ernest Greenwood (1873-1933)

1873 Born in Dewsbury the son of John Greenwood, Commission Agent, and his wife Fanny

1911 Living at Thomas Whites Road, Coventry: John Ernest Greenwood (age 38 born Dewsbury), Draughtsman - Motor Trade. With his wife Mary Ellen Greenwood (age 38 born harrogate) and their four children; Charles Ernest Greenwood (age 15 born York), Machinist - Motor Trade; Thomas Cyril Greenwood (age 12 born York); Cathrine Florence Greenwood (age 7 born Coventry); and Mary Louise Greenwood (age 3 born Coventry).[1]

In 1910 Greenwood was working with Rover where he designed a motorcycle with a rear-mounted Bosch magneto, B and B carburettor, belt drive from an adjustable pulley and Druid forks.

Two years later he moved to Sunbeam for whom he designed their first machine, using an engine from Harry Stevens. In 1913 he won a gold medal in the 'Midland Reliability Trial', riding a 6 h.p. Sunbeam, as did Tommy de la Hay.

Sources: Graces Guide, The Motor Cycle, et al.