George Singer’s famous motorized wheel machine helped set the English-speaking world in motion. Bronze Age Engine Bicycles were much cheaper than four-wheeled cars, and the ability to run on pedal power made them a pretty good choice for those on the go. If you probably didn’t have enough money to buy one, a Vauxhall Prince Henry sports carbut you need to bring more than one person, You could have chosen a gorgeous motorbike with a matching rattan stroller.. I called the driver, but there was still room for someone else. Would you like a ride?
What is it? Oh, you’re worried about safety? I wouldn’t worry too much about that. At 114 years old, this bike isn’t exactly a speed demon, and with the added weight and aerodynamic drag of a leather passenger, I’d be surprised if this thing could climb a reasonable incline. When we get to anything other than flat ground, you’ll probably have to get off and push, or at least walk alongside. Singer offered these bikes in 299cc and 535cc capacities during that period, and the listing doesn’t say which, but either way, you’re looking at horsepower ratings measured in decimals. I think pedals would be really useful.
I bet you’d be more comfortable in a sidecar with a buttoned-up vintage leather seat that’s closer to a library wingback than I am in a triple-sprung Brooks handmade leather saddle. Depending on how smooth the road is, though, I might be a little happier. So what do you think? Would you climb into this open-faced blue-and-cloud leather coffin and run around the countryside with me for a few hours?
This exact motorcycle for sale in 2019 for $47,500 in Missouri. Today, RM Sotheby’s Hershey auction seems to believe that the value has dropped a bit in the years since, as it is being offered with a pre-auction estimate of $35,000 to $45,000..
