The Thomas motorcycle was produced from 1902 to 1904 by John. L. Thomas of Barnet, Hertfordshire.
This was a small producer that exhibited three machines at the late 1902 Stanley show. One was entirely of his own construction, including the engine, and had an extra-long wheelbase and Celeripede front fork.
The following year their own machine had gone, but they still had two machines on show, both still with the Celeripede front fork. One had an inclined Minerva engine, the other a Kerry made by Sarolea.
Celeripede were motorcycles produced from 1902 to 1903. They were made by J. L. Thomas of Barnet, Hertfordshire.
The machines first appeared at the late-1902 Stanley show and there was a choice of engine - either 2hp Minerva or a 1½ hp Celeri-mobile. Also shown was a motor-tandem with a 1½ hp Minerva engine and belt drive. Any of those models could be fitted with the firm's sprung front-fork - available from other makers under the Celeripede name.
Sources: Graces Guide, period literature.
There was also a W.R. Thomas of 33, Acre Lane, Brixton, S.W. who advertised his motorcycle for £35 in Motorcycling in 1902.
The Thomas Motorcycles.
At the forthcoming Stanley Show, J. L. Thomas, of Barnet, will exhibit three motorcycles, one of which is built throughout at his own works, including the engine. The chief features of this machine are as follows : All threads are of Whitworth and B.S.A. pitch and gauge (for the greater case of replacement) ; the ignition and 2 to 1 gear is detachable in five minutes without detaching the crankcase ; extra large and efficient silencer; lubricating oil supply pump in front of rider. Coil and battery terminals easily get-at-able. Celeripede spring fork (Thomas's patent); extra long wheel base; two-levcr control and spray carburetter.
1902 Stanley Show in Motor Cycling Magazine.
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