Description
1949 Excelsior Autobyke Deluxe (Autocycle / Moped).
Original Registration Number - LYA495
Frame number - SA9602 - Engine Number S9
The V5C has a note that the vehicle was not new when registered so could well be a pre war model. The Autobkye was originally registered in Somerset and it would so it appears it has stayed in the West Country for all its life.
Excelsior launched their "Autobyke" in 1937, these were fitted with a Villers Junior Motor, Production ceased during the World War 2 when the factory moved over to manufacture the "Welbike" for the War Department. Autobyke manufacture resumed post war when it was then fitted with its own 2 stroke engine, this continued until production ceased in 1957.
LYA495 has an engine number of S9, which might indicate that this is a very early post war model also possibly that this is the "Super-Autobyke".
LYA495 is fitted with the original engine covers, original tank with some of the tank markings still intact. luggage carrier, detachable rear mudguard, rear and front number plates, Millar Headlamp, horn, wipes rear light fitting, red rear reflector and a period type pump which fits onto the frame housing. Under the seat is the small circular tool box and with this is a collection of period tools.
The flywheel magneto is manufactured by Wipac - WICO-PACY-SALES-CORP LTD. Which also might help this motorcycle.
Note in March 1946 this machine cost £35-15s-0d plus £9-13s-1d Purchase Tax but with difficulty in raw materials the price was increased.
LYA495 was purchased by my late Father in 1983, he Rode / Displayed / Exhibited the Autobyke through out the west country. I have held on the the Autobkye partly for my Father sake but also that my first car was an Excelsior (Berkley T60). But the time has come for some else to enjoy this bike, I am not a motorcyclist, so the machine sits and looks pretty in the Garden House. It should be used and enjoyed rather than being covered in dust sheets. LYA495 has always been kept in dry storage, the engine turns over and you can definitely feel the compression on the cylinder when the pedals are turned, new inner tubes were fitted earlier this year.
The Autocycle is currently classed as "Not Licensed" (words before SORN) but with the new owner can be transferred to as "Historic Vehicle" then having the advantage of free road tax and no MoT. The last MoT certificate is included with the sale together with Pink and Blue V5Cs (Registration Documents), I have also included the Shell Two Stroke Engine and Maintenance Log book and some history relating to Excelsior.
I am happy to answer any questions and the Autobyke is available to view at any time in Plymouth.
