This extraordinary French motorcycle from between the wars was spotted by Paul d’Orléans in Bavaria recently. On his Vintagent blog, he sums it up perfectly: “The Majestic is the physical embodiment of the Art Deco aesthetic, a streamlined torpedo which suggests Speed and Modernity.” The real innovation is at the front—this is one of the first motorcycles to feature hub-centered steering (as beloved by Bimota of late). And yes, the front also has sliding pillar suspension, similar to that on a Lancia Lambda or early Morgan. D’Orléans was lucky enough to ride this machine, but the styling apparently promises more than the 500 cc Chaise engine can deliver. Still, it’s hard not to be seduced by those swooping lines in light-gauge steel, beautifully accentuated by classic French racing blue paintwork. For that, we could forgive just about anything. [Image by Paul d’Orléans.]
Canon PowerShot SD1100 IS | 1/25s | f/8 | ISO 80 | Focal length 6.2mm
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8 Comments
I’ve always loved this design, it’s classy as hell.
I’d like to see this (or an R7) with modern mechanicals inside.
Ditto what Coho said. I love the French aesthetic of this bike.
beautiful bike!
it’s just me or that “ferrari” bike is just a copy of this one?
awesome blog!
Looks like it’s going 100mph standing still. In the 1930s.
Yeah, saw one at a bike meet/show in souther France this summer.
http://www.flickr.com/photos/mudmucks/4020484004
What a combination of style and engineering!
WOw. Great bike. I`ve never seen any like this.
Good design bike ::)
Wow what a bike…Many thanks for sharing this….