Clyno Engineering Co: Motorcycles
Note: This is a sub-section of Clyno Engineering Co.
Clyno motorcycles were produced from 1909 to 1923.
1909 The first machines were produced by cousins, Ailwyn Percy Smith and Francis William Agutter Smith. They had previously made their name as a supplier of adjustable engine pulleys for motorcycles, sold under the name of Clyno. Using the same name, they moved on to complete machines that they exhibited at the Stanley Show. There were two models, a 3hp single and a 6hp V-twin, both fitted with Stevens engines, belt drive, their own adjustable pulley and sprung forks.
1910 Late that year, production was moved to the Stevens' former Pelham Street factory in Wolverhampton.
1911 The twin had the option of two speeds and chain drive.
1912 Using twin sets of primary chains to double up on the ratios, four-speed was achieved.
1913 They offered just the V-twin with a three-speed gearbox and chain drive.
1914 Directory lists them as Clyno Engineering Co., Pelham Street, Wolverhampton and as motor cycle manufacturers
1914 That was joined by a lightweight with a 269cc two-stroke engine, an inclined cylinder and two speed built-in with the engine.
1915 A larger two-stroke made a brief appearance and a second version of the V-twin was added. It was modified for army use as a combination that could carry a heavy machine gun and its ammunition.
1916 Just that model continued for that year. Some were sent to Russia, followed by a later batch fitted with an 8hp JAP engine.
1919 Post World War I, they exhibited the two-stroke and a new version of the V-twin with a larger engine, at the Olympia Show. That model was intended for sidecar use, so its frame was fitted with rear suspension controlled by leaf springs, but its appearance was delayed.
1922 Following financial re-organization, that model appeared, but the two-stroke was only built for a year or two.
1923 It made a brief return to run alongside the V-twin, but at the end of that year motorcycle] production came to an end as the company had become heavily involved in the car industry.
National Motorcycle Museum exhibits:-
- 1914 – 1918 Clyno Machine Gun Sidecar Machine
- 1914 Clyno 750cc V-Twin