Young clip-on motorcycle engines were produced from 1919 to 1923. The first engines were 269cc Mohawk two-strokes, but this then changed to ones made by Waltham Engineering of Waltham Cross, Herts.
The Mohawk engine fitted over the rear wheel of a standard bicycle, which it drove by chain. The later 131cc engines had an aluminium cylinder, with a cast-iron liner, and was mounted horizontally with the head to the rear. The ML magneto was chain driven and the mixture supplied by a WEC carburettor. The whole engine unit was carried in an aluminium cradle. Lubrication was by petroil, with the fuel carried in a cylindrical tank mounted above the frame top-tube.
Transmission was by chain to a countershaft carrying a clutch and then by a further chain on the left down to the rear hub.
The firm also offered a simple attachment to provide springing for the front forks and the unit remained in production until 1923.
Suitable for fitting to any existing pedal cycle - the Young motor attachment. The capacity is 130 c.c.
The popular Young motor attachment which can be fitted to pedal cycles, or preferably sold complete by its makers, has not undergone any startling alterations. A simplified form of spring fork attachiment has been made which should greatly add to the rider's comfort. In the-case of the little 130 c.c. (54x57 mm.) two-stroke engine, one important innovation is the fitting of an aluminium cylinder with cast iron lining; the short exhaust pipe from the cylinder forms part of the cylinder casting, and is heavily ribbed to aid cooling.
The exhibit will consist of special bicycles fitted up with the Young attachment, both for ladies and gentlemen, and a tandem bicycle. What is known as the de luxe model will also be shown, to be sold complete with acetylene lamp, tools and spares, and the new forks in which the spindle floats between two enclosed springs, and is adustable to any pedal cycle.
The Motor Cycle, November 1921
See also E.G. Young, 1904
If you have further information or a query related to this page, please contact us
