Thor Motorcycles Model U 116
The Thor motorcycle was built by the Aurora Automotive Machinery Company from 1907 until 1916.
For an innovative Company their life span was relatively short, however they are credited with being one of the first to offer payment installments on credit.
Aurora built Oscar Hedström designed engines for the Indian Motorcycle Company and other motorcycle brands. They also supplied various engine and frame components to a number of other brands. There was a supply agreement with Indian, but that put no restraints on Thor producing their own machines or manufacturing for others.
Thor became the Aurora house brand. The name came from the Norse, God of Thunder, hence the lightning bolt featured in the name plate. The model U is a 61 Cubic Inch 50 degree V twin producing 7 horsepower. Blue was the standard factory colour and the tyres would originally have had white walled trim.
This lovely bike is in excellent condition. This is one of two identical bikes that became part of the collection in 2009.