A truly unique piece of motorcycling history is set to go under the hammer. Built in 1895, the Holden Motorcycle is considered one of the rarest motorcycles in the world, with only eight units ever produced.
Recently listed for auction by Bonhams Cars, this bicycle-like machine is a remarkable example of early engineering innovation.
A Bicycle-Like Design
The Holden motorcycle stands out for its unusual appearance, closely resembling a bicycle. Key design highlights include:
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Large front wheel and very small rear wheel
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Splined bicycle-style wheels
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Curved bicycle-type handlebars
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Single-seat layout
The minimalist structure reflects the experimental phase of early motorized two-wheelers.
Britain’s First Motorcycle Pioneer
Designed by Colonel Holden, the machine is widely regarded as Britain’s first motorcycle. It is also believed to be the world’s first vehicle to use a 4-cylinder engine, making it historically significant.
Production Cut Short
Colonel Holden developed several prototypes between 1895 and 1901. However, a factory fire in 1899 delayed production. By July 1902, only eight motorcycles had been built, cementing its status as an ultra-rare collector’s item today.
Steam Engine–Inspired Mechanism
The bike featured a highly unusual mechanical layout inspired by railway steam engines:
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Two iron tubes housing pistons
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Pistons directly connected to the rear wheel
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Extremely small rear wheel to manage engine speed
This unconventional setup made the motorcycle both innovative and complex.
Engine and Performance
For its era, the performance figures were impressive:
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Engine: 1172cc
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Power: 3 hp
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Top speed: ~30 mph (48 km/h)
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Legal speed limit at the time: 12 mph (19 km/h)
Why It Failed Commercially
Despite advanced engineering, the Holden motorcycle struggled in the market due to several factors:
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High price of £75 (rivals cost £40–£45)
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Rapid tyre wear due to tiny rear wheel
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Overly complex engine and valve system
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Technology already considered outdated at launch
Preserved Through the Decades
The motorcycle was purchased in the 1920s by Rex Judd, who preserved it carefully. He even rode it in a historic race in 1938.
The bike later remained in a showroom until 1989 before moving to a museum. Remarkably, its original 1902 brochure and certificates still survive, further boosting its collector value.