The David Plant Collection, 1902 Clement 143cc Motor Bicycle

Already a successful maker of bicycles and pneumatic tyres – he owned the Dunlop patents in France – Gustave-Adolphe Clément diversified into motorcycle manufacture in 1897, having just bought the Gladiator cycle company, and built his first four-wheeled automobile two years later, taking an interest in the existing Gladiator concern. Around 1902 Clément began supplying motorcycle engines to Charles Garrard in the UK, who fitted them in frames supplied initially by James Lansdowne Norton and marketed his products under the Clément-Garrard name until 1911. Norton was impressed by the French-built motor and used it to power the first of his own motorcycles in 1902. In October 1903 Adolphe Clément broke his connection with the company he had founded and set up a new factory in Levallois-Perret, adopting the trade name 'Bayard'. Now fully controlled by British investors, the original Clément-Gladiator enterprise, trading under the 'Clediaber' name, continued to manufacture motorcycles until 1935.

This Pioneer-era motorcycle incorporates Clément components and is recognised by the Vintage Motor Cycle Club (VMCC) as dating from the early Veteran period. Very nicely presented, the machine appears to be an older restoration that would benefit from a detailed clean. The machine is offered with a comprehensive file of history and research, containing correspondence, technical submissions, and supporting literature. Also on file is a letter to the vendor dated 19th December 2014, signed by John Waghorne, confirming that the machine has been accepted into the VMCC Pioneer Register. The letter records a cubic capacity of 143cc and states that it is the opinion of the committee that the machine dates from 1902.

Also on file is the original Pioneer Register application, providing detailed technical information relating to the machine. This notes that certain components have been renewed during the course of assembly, including the fuel tank, mudguards, wheel rims, and ignition system. The documentation records that the Clément engine had been in the vendor's possession for many years. The frame was subsequently discovered in France, complete with a Clément badge and that of the original distributor, recorded as Mr Rat (R.A.T.). Supporting details and documentation relating to the frame as acquired in France are in the file.

Further material consists of photocopies of early period articles, together with written and email correspondence relating to the research and construction of the machine. Within this correspondence, the vendor notes that he was actively seeking a correct Clément carburettor, stating: "I have a Clément engine and a period Clément bicycle frame which I am endeavouring to make into a 1902 veteran motorcycle. Unfortunately, I am missing the carburettor." The correspondent indicates that such a component may have been available.

The file therefore provides a detailed record of the machine's reconstruction, provenance of components and subsequent recognition within the Pioneer movement. Prospective purchasers are advised to satisfy themselves with regard to the extent of this motorcycle's originality and period content. The engine turns over.

Following a period of inactivity, this motorcycle will require recommissioning and/or restoration to a greater or lesser extent before returning to the road and thus is sold strictly as viewed. Prospective purchasers should satisfy themselves with regard to this motorcycle's completeness, history, authenticity, originality and mechanical condition prior to bidding.
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