KELLER

400cc Kel-Cha · 1929

The most rational motorcycle possible

During the 1920s and 1930s, the number of minor marques was substantial. Many were no more than assemblers of proprietary parts, but there were also a few who made the entire machine themselves. It was often in these small factories where motorcycles were handbuilt in ones and twos that the most original and advanced designs were born.

Precision and Perfection

Traditionally, the Swiss are obsessed with precision, and their machines, seriously engineered and well finished, had all the right elements to attract connoisseurs across Europe. If the great Swiss marques were often angled towards the perfection of known and well-proven technology, the downfall of Charles Keller was a very different matter. Keller began manufacturing motorcycles in 1929, with a splendid disregard for convention. On the contrary, he used the most advanced techniques to make the most rational motorcycle possible, simple to maintain, clean to use and extremely safe to ride. The result was the luxurious – but expensive - Kel-Cha.

A Magnificent Failure

The superbly finished Keller, built (with scant sales success) from 1929 to 1932, was powered by an original engine built entirely (except for the cylinder head) from aluminum. The conrods and gearbox could be dismantled in a matter of minutes with a minimum of tools. The magneto, battery and tool-roll were housed in the crankcase casting. The frame was a robust doublecradle, fitted with a leading link fork of American inspiration.

SPECIFICATIONS

Engine: 397cc (79x81mm) air-cooled singlecylinder four-stroke

Power Rating: 4.5 hp

Valves: side

Fuel System: Schebler carburetor

Transmission: 3-speed, hand-shift; chain final drive

Suspension: leading link with enclosed springs (front); rigid (rear)

Brakes: drum (front & rear)

Wheels: 19 inch wire (front & rear)

Weight: 287 lb

Maximum Speed: 60 mph

The aggressive colored wheels and tank of the Keller were intended to render it as visible as possible in the interests of road safety.