1911 Flying Merkel Model V Motorcycle

Engine: V-twin, single-cylinder, four-stroke, air-cooled
Displacement: 885 cc (54 ci)
Bore & Stroke: 82.55 x 82.55 mm (3.25 x 3.25 in)
Power: 2.98 kW (6 hp)
Transmission: Variable 1-forward, manual
Weight: 113 kg (250 lb)
Original Cost: C $407 (estimate)

The 1911 Flying Merkel Model V is considered groundbreaking for the introduction of several technological innovations. The Flying Merkel combined a traditional belt transmission with an innovative spring frame that allowed the up and down movement of the rear wheel not affect the tension of the drivetrain. Other innovations include the throttle-controlled oiler, the monoshock rear suspension, and the patented spring fork which is considered to be the precursor of the modern telescopic fork. Merkel's slogan was "All roads are smooth to the Flying Merkel."

In 1911 the Flying Merkel was only available in bright orange. Production of the Fying Merkel ended in 1915.

Joseph Merkel was an innovative motorcycle engineer whose Flying Merkel had innovations that have inspired many of the technologies still used in modern motorcycles. Merkel motorcycles were well known as racing bikes and were popular on the consumer higher-end market but increased competition and the First World War contributed to the closing of the company in 1917.

Chronology:

1902 - Joseph Merkel founded the Merkel Company.
1905 - Merkel made sveral racing motorcycles.
1909 - Company was purchased by the Light Manufacturing Company, and the motorcycles are named the the Merkel Light.
1911 - Bikes branded as Flying Merkels.
1911 - Miami Cycle Manufacturing Company bought Merkel.
1914 - A rider on a Flying Merkel won the National Endurance run from Chicago to St. Louis.
1917 - Merkel production ceased.
1969 - Stan Reynolds purchased this in Washington State, USA.
1984 - Stan Reynolds donated the motorcycle to the Reynolds-Alberta Museum.