1902 Century 220cc Solo
Registration no. BS 8568
Frame no. 52268
Engine no. 23

Active between 1902 and 1905, the short-lived Century Engineering and Motor Company was based at Willesden Junction in North London. Its principal product was the heavyweight 'Tandem' forecar, which featured fore-and-aft seating for two. The firm is believed to have used Minerva, MMC and, from 1904, Aster engines. The increasing popularity of the cycle-car brought about the firm's demise. Believed the sole survivor of its type, this Century power plant is mounted in a contemporary frame acquired from the National Cycle Museum, Llandrindod Wells. This machine was created in 2012 s a feasible Pioneer-era motorcycle using period photographs as a guide. Newly fabricated components include the fuel tank, control levers, nameplate, belt rim, stand, ignition coil and jockey pulley. We are advised that the quantity of new parts used has resulted in the refusal of a Pioneer Certificate (declined December 2014). Nevertheless, the machine is eligible for the VMCC's Banbury Run. This unique Century would make a wonderful addition to a private collection or museum as an illustration of British manufacturers' ingenuity and innovation in the early years of the 20th Century. Recently running, the machine is offered with V5C Registration Certificate.