HIGHLIGHTS
- Restored around 10 years ago
- Great entry-level classic British bike
- Lively and fun two-stroke twin
- Original frame and engine numbers
THE APPEAL
Excelsior Motorcycles go way back to 1896 and produced a wide range of machines utilising engines from various manufacturers. They also made successful competition bikes, their most famous being the Manxman in 1935.
Following world war II Excelsior concentrated on affordable models such as the Talisman Twin as we have here. Produced from 1950 to 1954, this budget bike with it’s lively two-stroke is lightweight, economical, reliable and fun to ride.
A great entry into classic motorcycle ownership, this little Excelsior underwent a full restoration a few years ago making it a very usable and collectable classic.
THE HISTORY AND PAPERWORK
- First registered on the 26th March 1955
- Up to date V5
- Not the original registration number
- Bike show description
- Excelsior technical information
- Workshop Manual
- Parts and restoration specialists information
- ‘Talisman Telegraph’ magazine from 2012
- Not been MOT’d
- The tax status is Sorn
Believed to have been restored by Chris Ellison (see photo), this lovely little motorcycle has obviously been cherished and was a regular at bike gatherings and shows a few years ago. It was acquired by the vendor in the summer of 2021.
THE CONDITION
- Excellent quality glossy black paintwork
- Shinning chrome work
- Undamaged decals
- Well-proportioned ‘bigger’ bike looks
- Correct frame and engine Identification plates
- Simple smiths speedometer and ammeter
- Electrics look in good condition
- Broken rear light lens
- Nice saddle
- Some surface rust on the chrome wheels
- Older Avon Speedmaster MKII tyres
THE MECHANICS
- 246 cc Series TT1/III two-stroke twin engine
- Cast-iron barrels and light alloy heads
- Producing around 12 bhp @ 4,000 rpm
- Breathing through a single Amal carburettor
- Wico-Pacy flywheel generator producing 36 watts
- 4-speed Albion foot change gearbox
- Clean alloy engine and components
- Telescopic and later swing-arm suspension with Girling shocks
- 5” front drum brake and 6” rear
The vendor tells us that this Talisman is easy to start and rides well. Light and reliable with impressive torque.
SUMMARY
This restored Excelsior Talisman Twin is ready to jump on and enjoy.
A practical and desirable little motorcycle, it would squeeze nicely into any collection and undoubtedly win-over the hearts of many a classic British Bike enthusiast.
Notice to bidders
This item is sold on an ‘As is Where is’ basis. The condition of this item is the opinion of the seller and may differ from your own opinion. Photos and listing descriptions are for guidance purposes only*.** Car & Classic do not warrant listing accuracy. Full inspection is recommended. Viewings are at the seller’s discretion. Buyer is responsible for delivery and collection of any item purchased.*
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