"On yer bike....." by neiwil
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Description
1904 AURORA
The Aurora Motor Manufacturing Co, was based at 22 Norfolk Street, Spon End, Coventry.
It was started by Charles Bourquin, a Swiss national and traded from
1902 until 1905. It is alleged that Bourquin absconded to London with money and goods belonging to the company and others, after which he was never heard of again.
As built, this motorcycle probably had a more upright appearance but at some point ( quite early ) in it's life, it was converted for racing or possibly a pace bike for cycle racing. This gave it the more sporty profile seen today.
Aurora motorcycles were usually powered by ' bought in ' engines from other manufacturers but in this case the engine appears to be specially built.
The Aurora is VERY! basic, being without BRAKES, CLUTCH or SUSPENSION.....those who have had the opportunity describe it as " extremely exciting " to ride..................... (translation...."Bloody terrifying" )
As with so many of the exhibits at Old Warden this is the last surviving Coventry built Aurora and it still runs......
Comments (10)
GrandmaT
"No brakes"??? I guess exciting is one way to describe it. Gives a whole new meaning to the phrase "suicide machines". These old cycles are marvels of ingenuity. Great photo!
bmac62
I'm with Grandma T...No brakes???. Looks to be a fine museum. I can just imagine the terror of getting my pants caught in that humongous chain.
tigertim
Very cool, love to see these old antique motor cycles.. quite a small machine, and maybe the front forks have been shortened, but anyway, would be a real hoot to ride....wonder if Mr Bourquin was quietly introduced to the bottom of the Thames....
blinkings
No brakes.........hmmmmm!
Maxidyne
Excellent mate, my dad had a BSA in the 60's and often wished he'd kept hold of it. Who needs brakes, just think of the speed :)
flavia49
amazing bike
bebopdlx
How very cool.
Froggy
The Shuttleworth collection is just round the corner from me. There's a lot of good stuff there mate for sure. I think I would give a ride on this a definite miss however!
lembrechtsart
Great machines for sure ! This Aurora looks to be of a much later date though. 1914 perhaps ? Anyway, nice find. Looks like a 1900 Peugeot tricycle in the back ? Peter
debbielove
A vast treasure trove of rare and one off aircraft and road based items, mostly still working or flying! Brilliant to look around as you can smell it as well as touch.. Here lies The De Havilland Comet, winner of the England - Australia race in 1933(?).. And yes it is about to fly once more! Great shot Neil and top info.. Their website has all the history's of each item... Rob