MESSRS. BAYLISS, THOMAS and Co., the producers of the well-known Excelsior, have become famous for their big single, but for 1915 they propose to market an 8 h.p. twin as an additional model. The general lines of the machine do not depart radically from the previous single-cylinder models; in fact, the frame is exactly the same, but a twin 85.5 x 65 side-by-side valve J. A. P. engine supplies the motive power. The drive throughout is by chain, the front chain being totally enclosed while the rear chain is amply protected by metal shields. The three-speed counter-shaft Jardine gear is well fitted to a stout bottom bracket, and the holding-down nuts are easily accessible for chain adjustment. This type of Jardine gear comprises an enclosed kick-starter and a large diameter cork insert clutch, while a shock absorber is fitted on the engine-shaft.
The engine is fed by an Everest automatic carburetter which has been adopted after a year's trial on a single-cylinder model, and oil is supplied through a Best and Lloyd semi-automatic drip feed lubricator. Not the least important item on a big twin is the tank capacity, and the Excelsior boasts a two-gallon petrol tank, with provision for half-a-gallon of lubricating oil, while a reliable petrol gauge is fitted in the top. Mudguards with deep and full valances are used, and, in combination with foot boards shielded in front and below by a neat underscreen should keep the rider dry and clean.
Sound Wheel Construction.
Brampton spring forks are included, and the rear brake acts on the internal V of a dummy brake rim so as to facilitate wheel removal.
The wheels themselves are fine pieces of work. Cycle car rims are used capable of taking either 2½in. or 3in. tyres, and ten-gauge spokes employed to attach them to the hubs, which are oil retaining and mud proof, and run on very large diameter ball races. The Splitdorf magneto will be carried in front of the engine, but protected by the footboard screen. Throughout, the fittings are very sturdy, and the machine looks a first-class heavy passenger vehicle and should make a good showing when trials once more come into vogue.
The Motor Cycle, December 17th, 1914. p683.
