Hildebrand & Wolfmuller Motorcycle, circa 1894
Add to SetSummary
The German-built Hildebrand & Wolfmuller motorcycle was the first motorized, two-wheeled vehicle sold to the public on a series-production basis. Hildebrand & Wolfmuller was also the first company to refer to the machine as a "motorcycle" (though it used the German word, motorrad). The curious engine design features two cylinders with connecting rods attached directly to the rear wheel.
The German-built Hildebrand & Wolfmuller motorcycle was the first motorized, two-wheeled vehicle sold to the public on a series-production basis. Hildebrand & Wolfmuller was also the first company to refer to the machine as a "motorcycle" (though it used the German word, motorrad). The curious engine design features two cylinders with connecting rods attached directly to the rear wheel.
Artifact
Motorcycle
Date Made
circa 1894
Location
Not on exhibit to the public.
Object ID
31.721.1
Credit
From the Collections of The Henry Ford.
Material
Metal
Rubber (Material)
Leather
Color
Black (Color)
Gold (Color)
Dimensions
Height: 42 in
Width: 25.75 in
Length: 78 in
Wheelbase: 51 in
Inscriptions
Rear fender: HILDEBRAND & WOLFMULLER MUNCHEN Gas tank: 41655 Front and Rear tags: 317
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