Greeves

200cc 20 T ·1955

From invalid cars to motorbikes

Bert Greeves, whose factory was Britain's biggest manufacturer of powered invalid carriages, built a prototype motorcycle in 1951, ostensibly to test a new rubber-intorsion suspension system for his "Invacars." But his ambition had always been to become a motorcycle manufacturer, and soon prototype Greeves scramblers were competing in local events.

Rigid-Frame Construction

The production model appeared in September 1953, with an improved version of rubber-in-torsion suspension. But the most striking feature was the frame, produced in

Greeves' own light-alloy foundry. The steering head and downtube were combined in a massive LM6 silicon-aluminum casting. The end of the tubular top member was inserted into the mold before the molten metal was poured in; the result was an incredibly rigid construction. Two more massive castings cradled the Villiers engine.

Competition Improves the Breed

The frame was so successful that this design was retained until 1968. Production began with roadsters, but by the time Greeves made its first show appearance in 1954, a scrambler and a trials machine had been added to the range. The trials and scrambler experience prompted modifications to the suspension system, with conventional spring/dampers at the -rear and Girling hydraulic dampers replacing the friction units on the front forks. Motocross became a specialty, with riders of the caliber of Dave Bickers bringing glory to the Greeves name.

SPECIFICATIONS

Engine: 197cc (59x72 mm) Villiers air-cooled single-cylinder

Valves: two-stroke, intake port controlled by piston skirt

Fuel System: carburetor

Transmission: 4-speed, chain final drive

Suspension: Metalastic rubber-in-torsion; leading links (front); swing arm (rear)

Brakes: offset 6 inch drum (front & rear)

Wheels: 2.75x21 inch (front); 4.00x18 inch (rear)

Weight: 225 lb

Greeves' first venture into motorcycle production with this 200cc Villiers-engined machine was remarkably successful.