Remembering The 1922 Humber Cycle
There's a saying that "History repeats itself." It helps to look back at the past to predict the future. And while looking into history can be pretty illustrious, certain moments stand out from the rest. In 1922, the Humber company put out their best motorcycle with the intent of supplying an emerging market hungry for affordable motor-powered transport. The 1922 Humber Cycle was a game-changer, marking when the British cycle industry became cemented in the motor age. It was the first British side-valve motorcycle, and it's fully deserving of the heritage it currently enjoys. The Humber company made the Humber Cycle by combining the streamlined aesthetic of earlier models with a heavier-duty engine with more power. The flat-twin engine had the advantage of being thoroughly proven on previous Humber models. It significantly increased the production speed while also resulting in a more compact, lighter, and more efficient product. The Humber company built the 1922 Humber Cycle to conquer the market, and it has had quite an impact since.
The 1922 Humber Cycle At A Glance
The Humber cycle was an innovative British product built by Humber Motor Company in 1922. It substantially impacted the cycle industry. It was constructed during the culmination of product development of the Humber company at their factory in Coventry. The intent of making the Humber Cycle was to modernize the cycle market, and it did so with its innovative design, engine power, and low cost. The 1922 Humber Cycle became known for its speed, smooth handling, and reliability. The British motorcycle industry never looked back after this motorcycle's release. It had never seen anything this efficient since the Walkers. But it was evident that The Humber Company had shouldered above the competition with their 1922 Humber Cycle. In addition, the motorcycle's low cost added to its appeal, providing a top-quality machine for money well spent. Its success paved the way for other competitive models and established British manufacturer Humber company as a leader in the industry.
The 1922 Humber Cycle Engine
The 1922 Humber Cycle's engine design was an old-fashioned side-valve technology. However, it came with a few significant upgrades that made it even better than its predecessors. While the engine of the Humber Cycle was reasonably compact, it was a heavy-duty machine that truly lived up to its name. It used the time-tested side-valve technology that Humber had thoroughly refined over time. It meant fewer moving parts, a robust engine capable of taking on any terrain, and a smooth ride every time. It was capable of putting out 4.5 horsepower and generating an impressive 36 foot-pounds of torque. The powerplant connected to the rear wheel via a side-valve design, which meant it weighed less than its contemporaries. Engaging the engine required little effort, making the Humber Cycle an easy bike to control. The 1922 Humber Cycle's design was also innovative. It came with a rack-and-pinion steering, chain drive, and a patented front chain brake. This system allowed it to handle the roughest terrain without missing a beat. The suspension, too, included two shock absorbers that were both monobloc and oil cartridge arrangements. To cool the engine, the Humber Company added a water jacket, and it also had a gas tank that held 2.5 gallons of fuel. The Humber Cycle's engine was relatively low in weight at 210 pounds. It added to its ability to handle the most challenging terrains, which helped prevent it from becoming obsolete. The motorbike weighed 280 pounds, but its engine put out a similar amount of power. It made it easier for the Humber company to produce durable and light engines.
The 1922 Humber Cycle's Impact On The Industry
The high-quality engine was a big reason behind the success of the Humber Cycle. It was lightweight, compact, easy to operate, and, most importantly, efficient. The engine made it perfect for sidecar use or just as a solo motorcycle. It may not have been an affordable product, but it did what it was designed to do, further increasing its appeal. It's important to note that the Humber Cycle was easy to ride and capable of tackling rougher terrains. Its impact on the British motorcycle industry was not only on its engine design. It was also the most powerful motorbike available, giving it a clear advantage against competitors. Its engine put out a much greater power, which did not hinder its smoothness and reliability. The Humber Cycle's high cost was the only thing that stood in its way. Although it fetched a high price, its efficiency made it the ideal product for many consumers. The Humber Cycle continued to influence the industry until its end in 1942. After that, the company shifted its focus to motor vehicle production and never looked back. It was a powerful machine that paved the way for other British cycles and set the stage for a booming domestic motorcycle industry. Many side-valve machines followed, but none were as revolutionary as the 1922 Humber Cycle.
The Humber Cycle's Performance
The Humber Cycle's engine was a game-changer. It outmatched its predecessors, which made it significantly more efficient. The system used a monobloc type front and rear suspension, which substantially reduced friction. It meant the engine could run more efficiently, thanks to fewer moving parts. The result was more power but less fuel consumption. It was also easier to control and produce a smooth ride. However, the bike's engine design wasn't without issues. It was prone to overheating and was loud.
The 1922 Humber Cycle's Series Production
The Humber Company built the 1922 Humber Cycle for mobile use, but it also made it easy to re-assemble for those who wanted to fix or upgrade their bike. It wasn't designed for repair in its factory and had a relatively high price tag, which limited its popularity. It was a high-quality machine that was more suited for private usage. The Humber Cycle's Series Production lasted until 1942. It was a significant product that paved the way for a British motorcycle industry that was on the cusp of exploding. The Humber Company continued to produce bikes in its factory until late 1931, when they crossed over to vehicle production. It may have been a pinnacle of British innovation, but it was not the only one.
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Written by Benjamin Smith
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