1952 Excelsior Roadmaster

Lot details
Registration No: FSU 119
Frame No: WD5/8273
Engine No: 635930
cc: 197
MOT Expiry Date: None

Although there were Excelsior motorcycles made in Chicago, from 1907, in the UK, the Bayliss Thomas brand of Excelsior will be more familiar. Like so many motorcycle makers, they started off producing bicycles and, later, having added Minerva engines to motorise them, became motorcycle manufacturers!
From 1919, the R Walker owned firm employed JAP engines to power racing customers to success at Brooklands and in the Isle of Man. From the 1930s, Villiers also supplied Excelsior with engines for 147, 196 and 247 models, while JAP engines powered their 245 and 300 bikes.
Pre-WW2, the marque became world famous for its Manxman with a 349cc single cylinder, 4-stroke engine. Following the war, the Midland firm concentrated on making much more sensible autocycles, a Sutabyk scooter and Villiers 2-stroke engined motor bikes which became popular with commuters and weekenders alike.
Offered here is one such 1952-vintage Excelsior with 197cc Villiers motor, which is said to be in excellent order. Frame and cycle parts as well as maroon paintwork are also claimed to be excellent.