ABC Classic Motorcycles
The first ABC in-line flat twin appeared
in 1913. Of these early models (built 1913-1917)
only three or four exist today. From 1919
onwards the ABC twin was made under licence
by the Sopwith Aviation & Engineering
Co in Kingston-upon-Thames. It had a duplex
frame with leaf spring suspension, in-unit
flat twin engine set across the frame with
clutch, gearbox all bevel drive. Some 2200
were made, of which only about 10% survive,
a remarkably high number for a vintage motorcycle.
Various types of valve gear conversion sets
were made available later, and speedometers,
electric lighting sets and sidecar outfits
were optional extras.
From 1920 to 1924 the machine was also made
under licence in France by Gnome et Rhone.
Some 3000 French models were manufactured
but relatively few seem to have survived.
More ABC classic
bike information.
| Bike |
Image |
Description |
1919 ABC Skootamota, 123cc |
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The ABC Skootamota, designed
by Granville Bradshaw, was the first
scooter which allowed the passenger
to sit, so it's considered the forerunner
of the modern scooter. It
was well designed. The small wheels
made it very stable. Its engine is
positioned above the rear wheel, which
it drives by chain, and the saddle
and spacious footboard provide ample
comfort for the rider. Of the various
early scooters that came on the market
around this time, the Skootamota was
the best. It was comfortable and easy
to ride. Its top speed is 15mph.
This
first generation of scooters was initially
marketed toward female riders. The
Skootamota ceased production in 1922.
But the seeds were sewn ...after World
War 2, its concept was revised and
modernists have not looked back since. |
1919 ABC |
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Engine - 398cc, horizontally
opposed twin-cylinder overhead-valve
four-stroke
Bore and Stroke - 68.6 x 54 mm
Launched - 1919-1925
Gearbox - four-speed with H-gate
Carburettor - Claudel-Hobsob
Top Speed - 70 mph |
1920 ABC |
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1920 ABC Sopwith |
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1921 ABC Twin, 398cc |
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| 1921 ABC |
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| 1921 ABC Skootamota - single
cylinder 123cc OHV engine |
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