Friday, February 12, 2010

The 1895 Hildebrand & Wolfmüller



Sometime this year a machine that was first called a “motorcycle” will be up for auction.

I am fascinated that back in 1894, these guys were figuring out how to make all of these intricate parts and components work together to propel a person on a vehicle.

On this particular model, the pushrods from the engine are connected directly to the rear wheel, which also acts as the flywheel. You can imagine this principle in action if you think of an old steam locomotive.

Most early motorcycles were single cylinder engines, but this H & W utilized a twin cylinder model.

I admire the craftsmanship and innovation.

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