We are proud to offer for sale our 1938 Excelsior Manxman. This famous machine belonged to Rod Coleman, famous motorcycle racer and Isle of Man TT winner. This motorcycle is the rare bronze head model and is out of one of the best racing motorcycle collections in the southern hemisphere. This bike is a very rare machine and represents a rare opportunity to own such a special machine.
Excelsior Motorcycles, originating in the late 19th century, began as Bayliss, Thomas & Co. in Coventry, England. Initially a bicycle manufacturer, the company transitioned to motorcycles in 1896 by fitting a Minerva engine to one of their bicycles, making it the first motorcycle sold in Britain. The brand quickly gained recognition for its innovative designs and effective marketing strategies.
By 1910, Excelsior became the Excelsior Motor Co., Ltd., and focused heavily on racing, achieving notable successes, including breaking the mile-a-minute barrier in 1903. During the Great Depression, Excelsior adapted by producing smaller, more affordable motorcycles. They introduced models like the Mechanical Marvel and the Manxman, which became popular among racers.
Post-World War II, Excelsior continued to innovate but struggled against rising competition. By the 1960s, the company ceased motorcycle production and was eventually sold to Britax. The Excelsior name briefly resurfaced in the late 1970s, symbolizing a legacy of innovation and resilience in early motorcycling history.