c1910 Speedwell Motorcycle
Sold: $18,000
Specifications
| Engine | Single-cylinder |
|---|---|
| Gearbox | Manual |
| Colour | Silver |
| Trim | Black |
Description
An early Australian motorcycle, the Speedwell was manufactured by the Sydney firm Bennett & Barkell Ltd between circa 1910 and 1932 using lightweight frames designed for local conditions and employing proprietary J A Prestwich & Co Ltd (JAP) engines, variously rated at 2 ½, 3 ½, 4, 6 and 8 horsepower. Initially based in Pitt Street (and later Castlereagh Street), Bennett & Barkell used primarily British parts in the production of their motorcycles and the two-piece frame (derived from the London-based Chater Lea company) used the engine as a stressed member, along with Druid front forks. Later versions had a patented suspension system known as the “B & B Spring Frame Attachment” that saw the seat connected to the footboards and few have survived.
