Centaur Cycle

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Centaur Cycle
legal form Company
founding 1875
resolution 1910
Seat United KingdomUnited Kingdom United Kingdom West Orchard
management George Gilbert
Branch Bicycle construction, automobile construction, motorcycle construction

The Centaur Cycle Company was a British manufacturer of bicycles, motorcycles and automobiles, who was based in West Orchard (Dorset) from 1875 to 1910 . Founders and owners were George Gilbert (1853-1915) and Edmund Mushing .

The company became known in particular for the manufacture of light bicycles. In 1890 the King of Scorchers was released, a bicycle that weighed only 11.8 kg. Other innovations for which Gilbert received patents were the adjustable saddle, removable pedals and adjustable, dust-protected rear wheel bearings. In addition, a tricycle was built with a tubular frame, which was also patented.

In 1900 the company started manufacturing automobiles and motorcycles, but as early as 1901 the production of light automobiles was stopped again. This four-wheeled vehicle was equipped with a De-Dion single-cylinder engine, which was specified with 4½ hp.

Motorcycle construction continued until Humber took over Centaur Cycle in 1910 and beyond. Gilbert retired into private life after the takeover.

Sources and web links

Secondary literature

  • The Home of the Centaur . The Irish Cyclist, November 9, 1904