1953 Panther Model M100 Sloper Motorcycle

Description

Founded in 1904 by Joah C. Phelon and Richard Moore in Cleckheaton, South Yorkshire, Phelon & Moore’s first motorcycle appeared the following year featuring what became P&M’s signature - a sloping 40-degree single-cylinder engine that formed a stressed member of the frame. Said to be the earliest completely chain-driven motorcycle, the original 500cc single was joined by a 90-degree V-twin design in 1914 which featured a four-speed transmission, though only a handful ever left the factory. Enjoying success on the track, P&M also supplied bikes to the Royal Flying Corps during the First World War and sidecar units to the Royal Automobile Club. Launched in 1932, the Panther 100 proved to be the mainstay of P&M production post World War II and ultimately remained in manufacture until the early 1960s. Powered by a development of the 600cc ohv Sloper engine used in the previous Model 85 Redwing and Model 60, the earliest Panther 100 came with Webb forks, BTH magneto ignition and a P&M four-speed gearbox; updates saw a Sturmey-Archer hand-change gearbox adopted in 1933 and a Burman foot-change gearbox the following year. The motor’s bottom end was redesigned for 1935 with a finned sump, improved lubrication, and revised crankcase assembly, with a compression ratio of 6.5:1.  Other detail changes included a hinged rear mudguard for easier access to the rear wheel, an eight-inch headlamp, larger saddle, and rubber-insulated handlebar mounts. Badged the ‘Redwing’, a tuned version of the Panther 100 was an option, featuring 7.0:1 compression, while customers could also choose a fully chromed fuel tank with the Panther logo in green/cream. Rarely seen in Australia, the Panther was promoted as “The Perfected Motorcycle” in period advertising. Today, the marque enjoys a loyal following, with an active club and they make an interesting alternative to the better-known brands.