Excelsior 1913 Model 7C 974 cc 2 cyl IOE 3502

Excelsior 1913 “Model 7C“ single speed 974 cc IOE V-twin engine # 42814

The Excelsior Supply Company of Chicago starts producing motorcycles with its own single cylinder engine in 1908. In 1911 the firm becomes part of Ignaz Schwinn’s bicycle empire. The 1913 brochure introduces the new models with confidence: “In presenting the 1913 Excelsior Auto-Cycle we have purposely condensed its features into these few pages. All mention of the innumerable Excelsior triumphs is omitted, for the speed and endurance of the “X” are well known wherever competition flourishes, and thirty thousand enthusiastic riders prove its popularity and superiority.”
Four models are offered, the single cylinder 4B with flat belt drive, 4C with chain drive and the twin 7B with flat belt drive and 7C with chain drive. The twins have mechanically operated valves with overhead inlet valves and bore x stroke dimensions of 84 x 88 mm. All models are single speeders, a 2-speed gear will become available in the 1914 models.

Handlebar controls – the left handle actuates the Eclipse multiple disc clutch- are operated via rods and linkages, the right handle actuates the throttle. The seat post is sprung for extra comfort. Ignition is the best there was at the time: the Bosch magneto. The ignition advance lever is on the left side of the tank. The rear mounted band brake is actuated by a backward push on the pedals.

The machine is presented in her basic form “straight from the sales brochure” and the pedalling gear gives her a charming veteran look. This rare, early v-twin Ex has been restored quite a number of years ago and has been part of a static private collection. The paint starts to flake and crack here and there, we think that adds to the charm of the nice patina, gathered over the years. She is a good runner.