Williamson 964cc 8HP Water-cooled Horizontally Opposed Twin

Engine number: 267        Frame number: 376

Year: 1913                     Cylinder capacity: 964 cc

Documents: British registration document, EU road registration

The Williamson motorcycle was made in Coventry by Billy Williamson, who had been managing director of the Coventry-based Rex company. He developed a new motorcycle under the name Williamson-Douglas. Douglas had been developing a 964 cc water-cooled flat twin engine that could be used either for light cars or motorcycles.

Billy Williamson fitted this engine into a frame with Douglas-Druid girder forks and a Douglas two-speed gearbox and a foot-operated clutch which was launched in 1912. In 1913 an air-cooled version was added to the range and in 1914 a kick starter was added.

Production was halted by World War I and in 1919 the only engines available were JAP 980 cc air-cooled side valves, so Williamson redesigned the frame to fit. Unfortunately Billy Williamson suffered a fatal heart attack in 1920 after only twenty motorcycles had been produced.

This exceptionally rare water-cooled 8 hp Williamson motorcycle combination is in a wonderful condition, with only original parts and lovely patina, it is a hard to find opportunity. Even the sidecar "Bramble" looks to be very unique and attractive with nice accessories as well. There is a spare engine in addition with the motorcylce combination, which is included in the offer.

The Williamson is in a running order and comes with British and EU registration documents.