Flashback. 1921 Megola 640CC Touring Motorcycle.

1megolamotorcycle3megolater4megolaterDesigned by Fritz Cockerell with 2000 units produced in Germany from 1921 to 1925, it is considered one of the most unorthodox motorcycle for its ergonomics and mechanical features. For design, you can see by yourself. For engine a 640 cc five-cylinder radial built into the front wheel. No clutch or tranny. To start it you had to push it or to rotate the front wheel with the motorcycle on its stand. An amazing top speed for the time and this type of machine of 70 mph. The Megola performed well in competitions – there was even a works team – the racing version having a top speed of around 85mph.

2megolabisThe ‘frame’ consisted of a box-like steel fabrication, welded and riveted together. Its front section contained the fuel, which was pumped to a header tank mounted on the right side of the leaf-sprung front fork. Touring (bucket seats) and sport versions (saddlebags) were available. Some models featured leaf-spring rear suspension. Approximately 15 original machines are known to exist, plus a few replicas made in the 1980s (at least three) while more recently an estimated five more have been made. (photos @ Bonhams)

5 Responses to “Flashback. 1921 Megola 640CC Touring Motorcycle.”


  1. 1 SYF Sep 22nd, 2016 at 9:29 am

    Very interesting. The radial engine on the front wheel is radical for 1920.
    I’m not sure it would handle very well, but what a trip for almost 100 years old.
    Starting it would really suck.

  2. 2 Boomer Sep 22nd, 2016 at 9:33 am

    The original production Maxi-Scooter style bike? (Think Burgman) And I thought it was a somewhat new idea; apparently not.

  3. 3 Brett Sep 22nd, 2016 at 9:38 am

    Great oldie, Cyril.

  4. 4 Lady Bird Sep 22nd, 2016 at 10:54 am

    This is a beautiful looking bike. Very impressive for the time.

  5. 5 19bravo Sep 22nd, 2016 at 1:34 pm

    Saw this on Hondatwins.net a few days ago. Very unusual, but cool somehow.

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Cyril Huze