Gentleman’s Comfort

Located in Northampton, United States of America, Cyclo was formed in 1908 by the Smith cousins, Alwyn and Frank, originally as an accessory manufacturing company. Cyclo patented an early ‘inclined’ pulley drive system from which the company took its name. 1909 saw the first of the Clyno motorcycles utilising proprietary Vee Twin engines made by the Thrapston, Wolverhampton-based firm, Stevens (later becoming AJS), utilising fittings from Charter lea of London. The following year, a larger machine was built powered by a 750cc 5/6hp Stevens v-twin and continued Clyno’s success in trials, including the MCC’s prestigious London–Edinburgh and London–Exeter events.Sleek, low and lightweight for its time (under 190lbs), the powerful, high-geared Clyno v-twin proved equally capable both as a solo ride or when linked to a sidecar. By 1913, the Clyno motorcycle was known for its reliability and convenience with such features as quickly detachable wheels (a patented interchangeable front and rear sidecar system), cast alloy footboards and a two-speed, chain-driven model, one of the first to enclose chains in all aluminum cases. Robustly engineered, Clyno machines also enjoyed success in trials, including the MCC’s prestigious London–Edinburgh and London–Exeter events, and were much favoured for their sidecars, and in 1914 they were in substantial demand for armoured combinations. By 1915, the Clyno was well known for its success on the battlefield. Clyno later changed emphasis from motorcycles to light cars which ultimately spelt doom for the company as they were unable to ride out the post-war depression. Located by a workmate, this motorcycle was brought to the attention of the current owner because it was going to be buried. As was often the case, someone had dismantled it many years previously and then forgotten about it. The frame was found nearby in an overgrown hedge. Not knowing exactly what he had, the current owner did the only thing he could and undertook a trial assembly only to discover that he, in fact, had a complete motorcycle – a Clyno – a marque he had not heard of until that moment. Some time later, after many long nights, the Clyno attended its first rally in 1990 and after two attempts successfully completed the Hawke’s Bay rally from Taupo to Napier; this is testament to both the machine and its rider. The bike is accompanied by visual records of the restoration and sidecar components.