Post-War Power through the 50s & 60s

The end of World War II (1945) created to an enormous demand for cheap, personal transportation. This led to the development of the motor scooter – dominated by Italian brands Vespa and Lambretta – which offered a clean, modern, easy-to-ride alternative to established motorcycle designs. Microcars (also known as ‘bubble’ cars) also grew in popularity in Europe, providing economical enclosed transport at a much lower cost than a full-size car.

During the 1950s and 60s, motorcycles changed from providing basic point-to-point transportation to becoming symbols of power, freedom and fun – while also developing an outlaw image as seen in the Hell’s Angels (USA) or Mods & Rockers (UK) sub-cultures which continue today.

Faced with changing demands for traditional motorcycles, manufacturers responded by building more powerful, luxurious and faster machines, aimed at enthusiasts who valued performance and excitement over utility and convenience. The drive for greater performance led to single-cylinder machines being replaced by those with two, three or four cylinders with ever-increasing power.

Long-distance motorcycle touring grew in popularity and manufacturers including BMW (Germany), Harley-Davidson (USA), Moto Guzzi (Italy) and Vincent (Great Britain) developed new models to satisfy that market. Riders seeking high-performance machines could buy road-going replicas of World Championship-winning motorcycles from British manufacturers BSA, Norton, Velocette, Triumph and Matchless as well as their Italian competitors, Gilera, Moto Guzzi and MV Agusta.

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+ 1947 BSA B33

After recovering from World War II, BSA began producing motorcycles again in the late 1940’s, and the B33 was one of the first post-war single cylinders bikes the company produced. The bike was classified as a workhorse, a jack-of-all-trades motorcycles designed to reliably take their owners to work or wherever they needed to go. No frills, though nothing left out, the BSA B33 is one of the most globally loved motorcycles of all time.

Birmingham Small Arms company was formed in June of 1861 specifically to manufacture guns by machinery. Like many other motorcycle companies, BSA first became familiar with two-wheeled transportation by manufacturing bicycles beginning in 1880. BSA motorized their first bicycle in 1910, selling out their entire production in 1911, 1912 and 1913.

BSA motorcycles were sold as affordable motorcycles with reasonable performance for the average user. BSA stressed the reliability of their machines, the availability of spares and dealer support. The motorcycles were a mixture of side valve and OHV engines offering different performance for different roles, like hauling a sidecar, though many owners used their BSA for commuting, and the B33 is no different.

While many owners chose to commute on their B33, the bike was designed for all around use. With that in mind, BSA built the bike stronger than it needed to be. The B33’s engine utilizes a built-up crankshaft with two full flywheels riding on one roller bearing on the timing-side, and one roller bearing and one ball bearing on the drive-side, with a caged double-roller bearing on the big end of the connection rod. Overall, the B33 was a sensible transport bike that, while not over styled, still seems modern looking today. It is still referred to as the world’s best selling bike, helping BSA become the largest manufacturer of motorcycles in the 1950’s.

Specifications:

Engine: 495 CC Inline Twin
Horsepower: 26
Transmission: 4 Speed Manual
Top Speed: 85 MPH

+ 1953 BSA Gold Star BB34

Arguably one of the most famous names in British motorcycle history, the BSA Gold Star took its name from a lapel pin awarded to riders who completed a 100mph race lap at Brooklands, England. Produced from 1938 to 1963, the Gold Star was available with a 349cc or 499c motor. Hand-built with many special parts and performance modifications, a factory-supplied dynamometer tests allowed the new owner to see the horsepower produced.

The machine on display is a fully restored BB34 model, originally supplied to BSA’s west coast dealer, Hap Alzina. It has the swing-arm frame introduced in 1953. The Gold Star was continually developed over its lifetime, being offered in Trials, Scrambler, ISDT, Clubman’s (race) and Touring versions. This is a Touring model with the optional Clubman’s large-capacity fuel tank and Amal TT carburetor.

In 1937 racer Wal Handley lapped the Brooklands circuit at over 100mph on a modified BSA Empire Star, being awarded the traditional Gold Star pin for his achievement. This inspired BSA to produce the BSA Gold Star.

In 1954, BSA contested the prestigious Daytona 200 race, which was run on a mixed asphalt and beach course. A team of works-prepared Gold Stars and Shooting Stars (500cc twin-cylinder) machines entered; the race was won by the Shooting Star with the Gold Star in third place. Gold Stars also won their class at the Isle of Man TT races in every year from 1949 to 1956.

By the early 1960s, sales were slowing although the current DBD34 machine was capable of over 110mph and still winning races. In 1963 Lucas decided to end production of the magneto used by the BSA’s B-series, which included the Gold Star. BSA decided to end production rather than invest in switching to coil ignition.  

Specifications:

499cc single-cylinder
air-cooled OHV motor
4-speed transmission
60mpg
110mph top speed

+ 1953 Vincent HRD Black Shadow

Post WW2, British manufacturer HRD/ Vincent set out to manufacture the fastest production motorcycle available. In 1948, using a performance modified HRD Rapide with the 1000cc Vincent V-twin engine as the basis for this new model, it became known as the Black Shadow featuring a black enamel covered engine and cylinders. Higher compression pistons were used along with larger twin AMAL carburetors and three stage valve springs allowing the motorcycle to achieve speeds approaching 125mph in early testing, far and away faster than the parallel twins of the day.

Not only was Vincent’s engine superior to other post war bikes, but the patented triagonal swinging arm suspension with a single rear shock absorber graced all HRD/Vincent models while other manufacturers made do with hard tail frames and mildly sprung seats. To further enhance handling, suspension components attached directly to the engine eliminating many elements of a tubular frame. This in part was due of the scarcity of tubular steel immediately after the war. With the engine as a stressed member of the frame the Black Shadow had a shorter wheelbase than other V twin motorcycles thus improving cornering and handling. Front suspension featured a sprung girder style fork assembly shared by other Vincent models.

Perhaps the single most iconic feature of the Black Shadow was the 5” Speedometer placed prominently above the handlebar reading up to 150 mph. The location was said to allow the rider quick access to the bike’s speed while being able to concentrate on the road ahead. With expensive semi-custom parts utilized throughout the Black Shadow, the bikes were available only to the wealthiest of enthusiasts. By the mid 50’s, the Black Shadow cost and pre-war styling began to erode popularity and by 1958 Vincent had fallen into receivership.

Specifications:

Displacement: 61 Cubic Inches (1000cc)
Horsepower: 55 HP
Dry Weight (claimed) 458lbs

+ 1954 Vincent Black Knight

The Vincent Black Knight is a 1000cc luxury performance motorcycle based upon a previous model, the Vincent Rapide. It represents Vincent’s attempt to create a fully enclosed fiberglass bodywork over a sporting chassis, an exercise encouraged by a survey of the Vincent Owners Club that meant to increase comfort and weather protection to the rider. Similar in most ways to the Rapide, the Black Knight’s differences were mostly cosmetic. Fewer than 200 were made from 1954-55.

Philip Vincent’s company struggled financially during this time and had banked on a military contract to build un-manned aircraft engines. The contract never materialized and while some components made their way into the Black Knight from the aircraft engine, Vincent was on the brink of bankruptcy.

In 1954, Vincent shocked the public by replacing the Comet, Rapide, and Black Shadow (series D) models with fully faired versions called the Victor, Black Knight and Black Prince respectively. The widespread changed proved to be disastrous to the company. Not only did Vincent struggle to find sources of the recently developed fiberglass material for the bikes, but the market did also not materialize for the new bikes. By mid-year 1954, Vincent was forced to bring back the un-faired models to be sold alongside the new bikes.

Styling on the Black Knight was an acquired taste. While retaining a girder style front suspension from prior models, Armstrong hydraulic dampers were fitted to the “Girdraulic” forks and the front windscreen and wide front fender pivoted with the steering. The engine was barely exposed from the side and the rear of the bike comprised of a large pivoting cowl and seat that enclosed the oil tank and rear wheel and suspension. Air flow to the engine was directed by large cowlings that trailed behind the front fenders. By 1955, Vincent was no longer viable and closed its doors for good.

Specifications:

Engine displacement: 1000cc (61 cubic inch)
Horsepower: 45hp
Top Speed: 110 mph
Weight: 460lb dry

+ 1958 Triumph Tiger 100

The Triumph Speed Twin is probably the most influential British motorcycle ever made. Designer Edward Turner’s talent for engineering, style and marketing acumen set a template for success that all other manufacturers copied. Launched in 1937, a sports version appeared in 1939 in the form of the Tiger 100, its name hinting at its expected top speed.

The Tiger 100 shown here dates from 1958, by which time it had gained swing-arm rear suspension and an all-alloy high-performance motor. The same year saw the introduction of the ‘Slickshift’ gearbox, in which gear changes could be achieved without the use of the hand-operated clutch lever. This clever innovation only lasted for two years and was received skeptically by the press. Bob McIntyre – the Scottish racer who was the first to lap the Isle of Man circuit at over 100mph – commented after testing “this thing will maim someone”.

A patented Triumph feature was the ‘nacelle’ fairing enclosing the headlamp and the top of the front forks. Introduced for the 1949 model year, this streamlined enclosure incorporated the headlamp, speedometer, ammeter, light switch, ignition cut-out and horn into one rubber-mounted unit. Also new for 1949 was the fuel tank-mounted luggage rack, which continued until the mid-1960s.

Edward Turner was a master at motorcycle design and Triumphs were always among the most stylish and sought-after machines. Celebrity owners included Steve McQueen, Clint Eastwood, Paul Newman. In the USA, the desire for large-capacity motorcycles led to the 650cc Thunderbird and its Tiger 110 sports version. In 1959 a more highly tuned version with twin carburetors arrived: the T120 Bonneville, which became an iconic Triumph model for the next 20 years.

Specifications:

498cc twin-cylinder
air-cooled OHV motor
4-speed ‘Slickshift’ transmission
65mpg
102mph top speed

+ 1959 Maserati 160 T4 Turismo

The Maserati 160 T4 Turismo was actually designed and produced by Italmoto, a well-established motorcycle producer acquired in 1953 by a Maserati subsidiary that produced batteries, bulbs and spark plugs for cars and motorcycles. Realizing that the Italian market had an increasing need for cheap, motorized transport, Maserati acquired Bologna-based Italmoto and moved production to their Modena factory. Existing Italmoto models were re-branded under the Maserati name and carried their trident logo. Three machines were initially offered: two 125cc two-stroke ‘T2’ machines and a 160cc four-stroke touring ‘T4’.

The Maserati displayed here is a rare 160 T4 Turismo. For many young people, owning a Maserati motorcycle was a mark of distinction making it preferable to other marques. In the first four years they sold well in Italy, South Africa, Europe and North America.

Maserati did not have its own motorcycle racing team, but they encouraged their retailers to organize competitions for customers. Those races include the ‘Giro d’Italia Motociclistico’ (Motorcycle Tour of Italy) and the ‘Milano – Taranto’ (Milan to Taranto race).

In 1957 news of serious financial difficulties from within Maserati’s parent Orsi group began to leak out. This was followed by Maserati’s withdrawal from Formula One motor-racing and other official competitions. Meanwhile demand on the home market fell due to competition from other motorcycle manufacturers – Moto Guzzi, Ducati, Benelli, Moto Morini, Laverda and Gilera – and the arrival of more competitively-priced small cars from FIAT caused a dramatic down-turn in the motorcycle industry. Maserati ceased production of motorcycles in 1960 and went into liquidation.

The Italmoto concern still survives, as a manufacture of high-quality electric bicycles and scooters. They have recently returned to motorcycle manufacture and offer stylish 250cc machines.  

Specifications:

158cc single-cylinder
air-cooled OHV motor
4-speed transmission
90mpg
65mph top speed

+ 1959 Velocette Viper

The Velocette Viper was introduced in October 1955 alongside the virtually identical 499cc Venom. This 1959 model is in highly original, unrestored condition, despite almost 62 years of regular use. Velocettes have a reputation for precision engineering and considerable skill is required to keep them in perfect running condition.

Intended as a high-performance sporting motorcycle capable of daily riding, the Viper featured an advanced specification for the 1950s, including a lightweight aluminum-alloy cylinder barrel with a cast-iron liner, a high-compression piston and an aluminum-alloy cylinder head. A distinctive feature was the chrome ‘fishtail’ muffler, which provided superior performance as well as a unique sound. Like most contemporary motorcycles, the Viper also had a separate engine and gearbox, magneto ignition and 6v lighting. By the mid-1960s the Viper – along with most of Velocette’s motorcycle range - was struggling to compete with more advanced Japanese machinery, as well as multi-cylinder European competitors. Production of the Viper ended in 1968.

Velocette is a highly respected name in British motorcycle history, being produced by Veloce Ltd. in Birmingham, England between 1905 and 1971. Velocette motorcycles were hand-built in small numbers, quickly gaining a strong reputation for high-quality and performance. Velocette motorcycles command a strong and loyal following and are among the most desirable classic motorcycles today. Velocettes featured numerous technical innovations, and many of its patented designs are commonplace on motorcycles today, including the positive-stop foot shift and swinging arm suspension with hydraulic dampers.

Active in international road racing from the early 1920s until its demise in 1971, Velocette’s overhead-camshaft KTT models dominating the Isle of Man Junior (350cc) Tourist Trophy (“TT”) events until the 1950s and winning two world championships (1949 and 1950). They also produced off-road trials and scrambles machines, as well as a desert racer intended for the important US market.   

Specifications:

349cc single-cylinder
air-cooled OHV motor
4-speed transmission
60mpg
85mph top speed

+ 1966 BMW R69S

The BMW R69S, produced from 1960 to 1969, was BMW’s sports bike of the day. Based on the popular R60/2 model, the R69S has larger carburetors, less restrictive mufflers, a stronger crankshaft and improved cylinder heads with “hemi” combustion chambers. By far the most powerful BMW motorcycle made at the time, it was also very expensive ($1,564 in 1966). The combination of high performance, exceptional quality and reliability all made the R69S one of the most desirable motorcycles available.  This example has been fully restored to original condition throughout. It is in perfect running order and is ridden regularly by its owner. This machine is fitted with period Albert mirrors attached to the headlamp mounts and a single Denfeld saddle for the rider.

Manufactured at BMW’s Munich factory, the R69S had an impressive technical specification. Drive to the rear wheel is by shaft, rather than a conventional chain. The front suspension uses a leading- link design ‘Earles’ fork, that can be adjusted for use with a sidecar or as a solo machine. Earles forks, invented in England by Ernest Earles in 1951, provide greater rigidity than conventional telescopic forks and were used on virtually all BMW motorcycles from 1955 to 1969.

By the end of the 1960s, BMW motorcycles were being left behind by newer designs from British, Italian and especially Japanese manufacturers. The Earles forks were considered heavy and obsolete, since sidecars were no longer popular. In an attempt to provide an updated product, BMW started building versions especially for the US, fitted with telescopic front forks.

With sales of the traditional twin-cylinder models falling, BMW decided to design an all-new range of luxury motorcycles, to be built in a new factory in Spandau, Berlin. Production of the R69S ended in 1969 with the unveiling of these new designs.

Specifications:

 594cc twin-cylinder
air-cooled OHV motor
42bhp
4-speed transmission
60mpg
108mph top speed

+ 1967 Harley Davidson FLHS custom

On Loan from Clinton Duffy, Duffy’s Auto & Motorcycle Service, Middletown RI

There was no motorcycle in the 1960’s that was more uniquely American than the Harley Davidson FLH and its Electra Glide touring variant. It filled a substantial gap left by the demise of Indian Motorcycles as the one remaining US motorcycle manufacturer. The 74 cubic inch OHV V-Twin motor found on FLH models easily powers the bike comfortably at highway speeds and features a wide touring seat, stylized front fender, suspension front and rear, and cable operated drum brakes. This new version of the Harley Davidson 74 cubic inch engine was called the “Shovel Head” motor with iron cylinders and external pushrod tubes. The name reflected the scooped look of the iron cylinder head with minimal cooling fins. In 1966 it replaced the “Pan Head” engine design but unfortunately did not solve Harley Davidson’s prior issues with oil consumption and overheating. With the largest available engine at the time, the FLHS features a substantial 12v electrical system including a 7” headlight with optional driving lights and an electric starter along with the conventional kick starter. Its low center of gravity allowed for good handling and made the FLH Electra Glide popular with law enforcement who often we called upon to perform low speed maneuvers on the heavily laden bike. Rider floorboards complete the comfort features with forward set controls and highway pegs mounted on a large forward crash bar. Transmission has 4 speeds with chain driven primary and final drive.

The FLHS shown here has several popular motor upgrades including a high-performance camshaft, tuned S&S aftermarket air cleaner and carburetor, Fish Tail Exhaust, electronic ignition system and digital gauges located on the fuel tank. Most exposed steel components are either highly polished or chrome plated to a show quality luster. To meet the need of long-distance travel, the FLH models have a unique dual fuel tank system with each located in front of the rider seat with a speedometer located in between. With a wide profile these tanks came to be known as “Fat Bob” tanks. Fuel capacity rose to 5 gallons giving the bike additional range for touring and highway police details.

While initially sales of the FLH were brisk, problems stemming from the Shovel Head motor hurt the company’s reputation which led to financial woes. Harley Davidson was acquired in 1969 by American Machine and Foundry (AMF) and the company attempted to make small changes to the engine to improve reliability rather than explore new designs. Meanwhile Japanese motorcycle manufacturers introduced all new motorcycles and engines featuring performance and comfort that would eclipse the problematic V-twins of Harley. The Shovel Head engine would endure until the mid-80’s when the company was purchased back from AMF by Harley Davidson employees. Harley Davidson celebrated its 100th Anniversary in 2003.

Specifications

Engine displacement: 74 Cubic Inches (1212cc)
Horsepower: 65hp (stock configuration)
Top Speed: 99mph (stock configuration)
Weight: 783 lbs (dry weight)

+ 1969 Moto Guzzi V750 Ambassador

In 1967, after 46 years in business Moto Guzzi revealed their first twin-cylinder motorcycle, the V700. Designed to win a competition sponsored by the Italian Government for a new police bike, this sturdy air-cooled, shaft-drive V-twin won, giving Moto Guzzi a promising future. A year later and following vigorous lobbying by the US importer, Premier Motors, the capacity was increased to 757cc and the ‘Ambassador 750’ (called the V7 Special in Europe) was launched.

The machine on display is a rare ‘A-series’ pre-production V750 model from late 1968. It is almost completely original, including paint, chrome and all mechanical items. The wide handlebars were specified for police use, as were the steel side cases.

The Ambassador featured a strong, 60bhp oil-tight motor, low-maintenance shaft-drive and a comfortable ride that was ideal for covering long distances. Various speed record attempts helped to boost the new Moto Guzzi’s image: in June 1969 Remo Venturi achieved 145mph on his V750 at Monza. Several months later, in October, Moto Guzzi riders broke the 1,000km and 6-hour records, both exceeding 125 mph. For a few brief months, the V750 was the fastest machine in its class.

The US motorcycling press liked the new Ambassador, helping it to sell over 46,000 units in 1971, many to police forces. Designed as a long-distance tourer, the V700 / V750 Ambassador was the first production motorcycle to feature electric starting only, with no kick-start option even offered.

The Ambassador was a supremely competent motorcycle, what it lacked in outright performance was compensated by the Italian flair. But priced almost the same as the Honda CB750 (at $1,694 in 1971) the Honda offered more of nearly everything and was the clear sales winner.

Specifications: