Hildebrand
From Object Wiki
| Hildebrand steam motorcycle 1889 | |
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| Manufacturer | Hildebrand |
| Production years | 1889 |
| Production location | Munich |
Heinrich and Wilhelm Hildebrand of Munich were pioneers of the commercially-produced motorcycle. In 1889, they made a prototype fitted with a small steam engine. In 1956, the machine shown here was identified by Heinrich L Hildebrand, the son of Heinrich Hildebrand, as being this actual prototype. Additional supporting evidence includes the fact that it lay abandoned for many years in the Southern Railway's Newhaven Depot, with the legend that it had been used in the first London - Brighton Run (i.e. of 1896). Entry No 18 in this event was 'a French steam motorcycle' ridden by a Frenchman named Lormont, who had been with the Hildebrand Brothers before 1894. It is thus probable, but not certain, that the Hildebrand prototype was this actual entry.
[edit] Memories
I think my grandfather used to own one of these- wow! It is so beautiful!
— Chloe
I love these bikes. An all time great!
— Anon
The Hildebrand and Wolfmuller was the first production motorcycle; it is credited to Heinrich Hildebrand and Alois Wolfmuller by eminent motorcycle historian Erwin Tragatsch. The twin cylinder engine was 1588cc, with its connecting rods going from the pistons directly to the rear wheel, which acted as a flywheel. Power output was estimated at 2.5 horsepower at a mere 240 revs per minute.
— Jim Reynolds, Classic Bike Guide Magazine
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Do you remember this bike? Add your memories. |
[edit] In the Science Museum's Records
Inv: 1940-4 Source: The Southern Railway
This bike is part of our Biker Tribes feature, a planned special exhibition launching at the Science Museum during 2010. Your contributions to this page may be used in the exhibition. Explore all the motorbikes.