Quote Originally Posted by Zardoz View Post
Excelsior started selling bikes in 1908,with a belt drive 500cc single. The V-twin (as pictured) came along in 1910, first with a 820cc engine then 1000cc's after 1911. They were well regarded and very successful racers, holding many early records. They shut down in 1931.

Maybe [off topic] but it's one of my areas of interest ...
Yes, we are digressing here, sorry, but Excelsior was around in 1903, and even earlier. It was founded as the Excelsior Supply Company, originally a bicycle manufacturer. But you're right, they apparently didn't build their first motorcycle until 1905 (according to one source I found). Still, oddly, there are some representations of 1902 and 1903 Excelsiors out there that seem to be reputable.


1903 Excelsior 550cc with wicker sidecar


1902 Excelsior


1903 Excelsior

Having said that, you're certainly right about the pictured racer - it's newer than nineteen-oh-anything. For one thing I was wrong about the drive, which on second glance isn't leather at all (though it could well have been if it really was a pre-1910 model). It looks more like an early teens model maybe??

One way or the other, that's a nice photo. Interesting looking character in the saddle, too. Glad to see it posted.
.