08-05-2020, 09:29 PM
The Solex might seem to have disappeared from the roads of France, but there is a devoted group of riders of the Stinkwheel active on this side of the Channel. Whether mounted above front or rear wheels, or below the bottom bracket, a range of additional power created the cyclemotor. Motor bike manufacturers were inevitably involved; BSA, Ducati, Rudge, Vincent and JAP. Austin did not try to get involved with cyclemotors, but surprisingly perhaps, Crossley and Salmson did, less surprising might have been Trojan with the Mini Motor. The problem for anyone wanting to try Stinkwheel riding is that legislation requires a motor bike licence. Whilst there may be historic reasons for this, it is rather pointless when a modern electric bike can significantly outperform any cyclemotor, but needs no licence at all. No I don't have one, but I do have a pal who does.