New Comet Motorcycles

NEW COMETS FOR 1915.

MR. A. H. HADEN, of Princip St., Birmingham, was one of the first of our manufacturers to realise the possibilities of Overseas trade in motor cycles and parts. He has, in consequence, reaped the benefit of his enterprise, and it is hardly surprising to find that the greater part of his business is done out of England. New Comet models range from two to eight horse power, and include two and four-stroke engines and special ladies' models.

Among the lightweight machines there is a wide choice. A very compact motor cycle is turned out, fitted with either the Precision Junior unit or a 211 c.c. two-stroke with a two-speed countershaft gear and chain and belt drive. In each case the frame is very strong without being heavy, and the fittings throughout are stout and of sensible proportions.

Druid forks, 26in. wheels, and comfortable foot plates are included in the specification. Care has been taken to ensure the most comfortable riding position, and it is particularly noticeable that even the lightest models are fitted with a double top tube. Both lightweights can be obtained with open frame suitable for lady riders, in which case both the top tubes are dropped sharply downwards, and meet in a common lug part way up the saddle tube. This gives plenty of dress room, and still leaves a frame of ample strength. The open frame models are, of course, fitted with a belt shield, to prevent damage to the riders dress.

To pass on to one size larger, we find a serviceable mount equipped with a 350 c.c. two-stroke engine and a three-speed hub gear. This is a robust machine, callable of solo work in any country. With its 26 x 2¼ tyres, strong stand and carrier, comfortable saddle and wide guards, it forms a serious touring mount which is at the same time not so heavy as to be unwieldy, weighing as it does approximately 150 lb. Here, as in other models, we find details carefully carried out. and the foot brake is arranged so that a fall is not in the least likely to put it out of action. This model may be obtained with pedalling gear and footrests in place of footboards.

Among the long list of remaining models to suit all tastes the big twin may be taken as a worthy representative. It is designed to suit the 6-8 h.p. J. A. P. or Precision engines, and is built throughout to withstand the heavy strains of sidecar work on bad roads. The mudguarding and fittings are of the first order, and the complete machine strikes a high note in motor cycle construction.

An equally wide range of sidecar chassis is manufactured at the works, and extends from the light touring machine to the very heavy types suitable for heavy loads in bad country and commercial work. The quick detachable sidecar clip is a point worthy of attention on all models.

The Motor Cycle, December 24th, 1914.

A Lady's Sidecar Outfit.

Open Frame and Protected Transmission are Features of the New Comet.

FITTED with a Climax engine of 70 x 76 mm. bore and stroke (292 c.c.) and a two-speed Albion gear box, with clutch and kick starter, the latest model New Comet is specially intended for ladies' use. A semi-open frame and well-guarded transmission are features that will appeal to the fair sex, while the absence of an outside flywheel obviates another possible chance of damage to skirts and long coats.

Aluminium foot plates, Druid forks, 24in. X 2 1/4in. Dunlop tyres and excellent mud guarding are included in the specification. Attached to this neat little machine is a light, but sturdy, coach-built sidecar, suspended on C springs at the rear and coil springs in front. The chassis is somewhat unusual, and a straight tube, parallel with the cycle frame, extends from the dropped axle to the head of the machine, where it is fixed to a short horizontal bar. The toolbag is mounted on the long side member. After a few miles on the road we are in a position to state that this little outfit is admirably suited for runabout purposes or for shopping trips. The plucky little engine will pull its full load up reasonable hills on top gear, and low gear is sufficient for all normal work.

Some Good Performances.

It will be recalled that the Climax engined New Comet has several sidecar records to its credit, which proves the power and reliability of the engine, one of the main features of which is the fact that, unlike the majority of two-strokes, inside flywheels are fitted. This accounts for the absence of "ring," so noticeable with most outside flywheel engines. Smooth running and silence are good features of the little outfit, while the finish of the outfit is in black enamel relieved with gold lines, the tank being decorated accordingly. The primary driving chain is enclosed in a polished aluminium case, which also enhances the appearance, and at 87 guineas complete the proposition is quite attractive.

The Motor Cycle, OCTOBER 27th, 1921