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Today in Motorcycle History

Westfield Motorcycles by Rising Sun

Westfield motorcycles were produced between 1903 and 1904 by the Rising Sun Motor Works, in London.

1903 The first machine appeared with a 2¾ hp engine designed to clamp to lugs on the frame. Both valves and the sparking plug were at the front of the engine and this, plus ample fins, showed an understanding of the need for good cooling. The rest of the machine was typically primitive with pedals, belt drive and braced forks.

1904 They listed a forecar, fitted with a 3½ hp engine, similar to most others of the period.


Westfield's Autobike.

This firm have on exhibition six 2¾ h.p. motor bicycles, and also a couple of Trimos of 3½ h.p. and 2¾ h.p. respectively, provided with coach-built front seats. The framework, engines, etc., of all these follow very much recognised and approved designs, but at the same time it is noticeable that the necessity of combining lightness with strength has evidently been kept well to the fore. The principal novelty introduced this year is a decidedly practical and ingenious method, by means of which a half turn of the rider's left wrist breaks the ignition, while by another half-turn the lever provided for raising the exhaust valve is brought into action. This is brought about by means of a coarse thread fixed on the extremity of the left handle-bar. On this thread a handle revolves, to which is attached a Bowden wire leading down to the circuit breaker and exhaust valve lift lever. We may point out that one great advantage of this system of control is that no strain is thrown on the wrist, the thread of the screw within the handle taking the stress of the Bowden wire and exhaust valve spring, to whatever height the valve may be lifted. (Stand 4.)

The Motor Cycle November 25th, 1903. p850
Crystal Palace Show 1903 Index

Sources: Graces Guide, The Motor Cycle



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