1950 Royal Enfield RE 125cc Motorcycle

Chiefly famous for their motorcycles, the Enfield Cycle Company also manufactured weapons hence the motto "built like a gun, goes like a bullet=". The first motorcycle appeared in 1901 and production stepped up in the 1920s, expanding into an extensive range by the 1930s. With the advent of World War II, Royal Enfield built a number of motorcycles for military use, including the 350cc and 570cc sidevalves and the famous "Flying Flea", a lightweight 125cc bike that was parachuted into battle inside a tubular cage. Post-war saw a resumption of production for the civilian market, including the "Flea", alongside the famous "Bullet". Although production in Redditch ceased in 1970, Enfields continue to be built under licence in India today and the brand has a loyal following around the world amongst bike enthusiasts.