1910s One-of-a-Kind Custom Wood Motorcycle
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Overview
AS DESCRIBED BY OWNER/SELLER….
Specs:
Size: 33″H x 72″L x 25″W
Weight: 150 lbs.
Wheels: 22″ wood spoke with solid rubber cinch tires
Drive: leather belt (missing)
Size: 33″H x 72″L x 25″W
Weight: 150 lbs.
Wheels: 22″ wood spoke with solid rubber cinch tires
Drive: leather belt (missing)
History:
I purchased this bike in 1995. I found it in a barn in Cloverdale BC. The owner relayed the following history to me: he had purchased it in the early 60’s at an auction house estate sale in Brandon MB. The estate manager relayed him this information: it was built in the 1910’s by William Seder of Winnipegosis MB. (who also kept a house in Saskatchewan). He was a ‘jack of all trades’ guy that built this for his own use. It was found in his barn after his passing.
I purchased this bike in 1995. I found it in a barn in Cloverdale BC. The owner relayed the following history to me: he had purchased it in the early 60’s at an auction house estate sale in Brandon MB. The estate manager relayed him this information: it was built in the 1910’s by William Seder of Winnipegosis MB. (who also kept a house in Saskatchewan). He was a ‘jack of all trades’ guy that built this for his own use. It was found in his barn after his passing.
Notes:
I personally believe this bike was built 10+ years later and that Mr. Seder was copying a 1920’s European bike. The similarities to a 1920 BMW are very notable. The current engine is a 2-cylinder Eisemann Electric, believed to have been changed from an earlier single cylinder hit and miss engine as these were common around the farms in those days. Most of the build is from items he would have around the farm. The wood wheels are likely from a utility cart or wagon. The front fender is from a plow. The handlebars are from an auger or similar tool. The frame is made from angle iron and flat bar. There is some type of control knob in front of the seat that is not connected to anything, presumably from the first engine. There is no rear suspension but he has cut a spring under the seat. The front suspension is a trailing link setup with leather straps and springs. Clutch is by means of an idler pulley operated with a foot pedal. There are no brakes, but these engines run at about 1000 rpm, so the calculated max speed is 13 mph.
Other:Cycle Canada magazine did a 4-page spread on it in Sept 2001. I have taken it to two bike shows and won the People’s Choice Award both times. This bike draws a larger crowd and more jaws dropped than anything. There is no registration or ownership papers.
Condition:
This bike is in original condition. It has clear signs of use. The previous owner stored it in a dry barn for the 30 years he owned it. I have had it in my living room for the 25 years I have owned it. The previous owner and I have done absolutely nothing to it. It has never had any paint on it. The engine turns and has compression.
This bike is in original condition. It has clear signs of use. The previous owner stored it in a dry barn for the 30 years he owned it. I have had it in my living room for the 25 years I have owned it. The previous owner and I have done absolutely nothing to it. It has never had any paint on it. The engine turns and has compression.
Mileage
No odometer.
Paint
None
Sheet Metal
N/A The frame is made from angle iron and flat bar. The front fender is from a plow.
Chrome
N/A
Mechanical
The current engine is a 2-cylinder Eisemann Electric. The engine turns and has compression.There is no rear suspension but he has cut a spring under the seat. The front suspension is a trailing link setup with leather straps and springs. Clutch is by means of an idler pulley operated with a foot pedal. There are no brakes, but these engines run at about 1000 rpm, so the calculated max speed is 13 mph.
Wheels & Tires
The wood wheels are likely from a utility cart or wagon. 22″ wood spoke with solid rubber cinch tires.
Title
None
Accessories
None