Hildebrand & Wolfmuller Motorcycle, circa 1894

Summary

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 device 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 device 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

Creators

Hildebrand & Wolfmuller 

Place of Creation

Germany, Munich 

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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