Win a dashcam

Formed in 1908 as an accessory manufacturer to Northamptonshire by the Smith cousins – Alwyn and Frank, the Company patented an early ‘inclined’ pulley drive system from which the company took its name –CLYNO.

1909 saw the first of the Clyno motorcycles utilising proprietary V-twin and single cylinder engines made by Wolverhampton firm Stevens (later became A.J.S) utilizing fittings from Chater Lea of London.

The CLYNO V-Twin:

• Engine: Side Valve 55 Degree V-twin four stroke
• Capacity: 744cc
• Carburetion A.M.A.C – 2 lever control
• Transmission: All chain with 3 speed countershaft gearbox and clutch.
• Lubrication: Semi-automatic, with hand backup pump (total loss system).
• Tyres: 26” X 2 ½” Beaded Edge (Clincher tyres)
• Top Speed: 55mph
• Cost: £85-5shillings (complete with sidecar)

Clyno took over the engine manufacturer’s plant in 1910 and shortly dropped the single cylinder range in favour of the V-twin. In 1911, a six-model range was offered including such features as all-chain drive, kick-start, and either 2 or 4 speed gearbox.

By 1913 the Clyno motorcycle had become a byword for the convenience with such features as quickly detachable wheels (interchangeable front/rear and sidecar), and cast alloy footboards. Robustly engineered they were much favoured for sidecar work, qualities which in 1914 led to substantial demand for armoured combinations. From 1917 the Russian army was also supplied with a similar model. Clyno later changed emphasis from motorcycles and deviated into the light car market in 1922. The demand for Clyno’s light car around 1923 caused motorcycle production to cease. Ultimately this move spelt doom for the company as it was unable to ride out the depression after the war.

This bike:
Located by a workmate, it was brought to the attention of the previous owner because it was going to be buried. As is often the case, someone had dismantled it many years previously and various parts of the bike had been placed in assorted boxes. The frame was found entangled in a hedge. Not knowing exactly what he had got, the new owner of this ‘pile of bits’ went through a trial assembly only to discover that in fact he had a complete bike – a CLYNO which he had never heard of.

Sometime later, after many long nights, the Clyno attended its first Rally in 1990 and after two attempts, completed the Hawke’s Bay rally from Taupo to Napier; this is testament to both the machine and its rider. The bike is accompanied by visual records of the restoration and sidecar components.

Upon its purchase, NZCM asked Richard Conlon of Tasman Coach Builders to do a complete and accurate refurbishment. The bike, as presented, represents almost two years of meticulous, researched craftsmanship. The bike is indeed a sweet runner.