British

Today in Motorcycle History

Stanley Motorcycles

1. Stanley was a motorcycle produced in 1902, in Coventry.

This machine was produced by a bicycle firm who added an 2½ hp engine to one of their models. Little is known, but it is said that they used friction drive to the rear wheel, rather than the normal belt. Production was reputedly taken over by Singer.

This company was founded in 1898 at the Stanley Cycle Works at Days Lane. Its founder is thought to be a Mr William Stanley, a 36 year old Coventry man who had drawn years of experience in engineering from working in the cycle trade.
Damien Kimberley, 'Coventry's Motorcycle Heritage;, p.107[1]



2. Stanley was a motorcycle produced in 1932 in Egham, Surrey.

Based on a stock tricycle, the machine was fitted with a 98cc Villiers engine, hung from the rear axle and with spur gears to drive the clutch and a differential. Aimed at the elderly market, to offer assistance and stability, it failed to catch on.

See also Argson Engineering


Notes. 1. Courtesy Graham Clayton.

Source: Graces Guide



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