Lot details
Registration No: A 2201
Frame No: NOT RECORDED
Engine No: 8101-97
cc: 250
MOT Expiry Date: None

The Brothers Werner were motorcycle pioneers who built their first machine in 1897. The original Werner employed a conventional bicycle frame; the engine, mounted on the head of the frame in front of the handlebars, driving the front wheel by belt. This, coupled with tube ignition, made for a very insecure device, tricky to ride in the extreme, especially on greasy roads.
In 1902, the inventive Brother introduced a new model, with engine conventionally mounted in the frame and, this time, the rear wheel being driven by a flat-belt. One of these Werners was ridden by pioneer biker E H Arnott from Lands End to John O'Groats in under 66 hours. For 1904, a V-belt replaced the flat type. Werners were made up to 1908.
Purchased in 1959 in poor condition by John Griffith, this 1903-dated Werner was sold to a Mr M Murphy, who, having undertaken a total renovation, entered the 1961 Brighton Run, retiring due to a petrol tap leakage. The machine did go on to win an award in the Sittingbourne Rally, however, before being sold to Mr P Clarke later that year.
In June 1972, this rare veteran was displayed at Beaulieu. Due to space limitations at the National Motor Museum however, A 2201 has spent recent years in storage and, having been well preserved, current cosmetic condition is described as being generally good.