1945 Panther Model 60 250cc
Based in Cleckheaton, Yorkshire, Phelon and Moore produced motorcycles for more than 60 years, with their larger capacity machines using the stressed member sloping single engine throughout that time - see the 1909 Phelon and Moore.
This Panther, a name introduced in 1924 as a model name, and then becoming the company name towards the end of that decade is part of their smaller capacity range. Introduced in 1934, the 250cc, overhead-valve, four-stroke model featured a more conventional frame, not using the engine as a stressed member. At a time of great price competition between the numerous motorcycle manufacturers Panther produced a lower specification cheaper version called the Red Panther. These were sold exclusively through Pride and Clarke, a South London motorcycle dealership.
This example is believed to be the 127th Post war Model 60 built, in October 1945, but with a 1940 frame. War work would have stopped production for all firms not supplying motorcycles to the Ministry of Defence.
| Key Facts | |
|---|---|
| Year of Manufacture | 1945 |
| Registration | None |
| Engine | 250cc |
| Built by | Phelon & Moore |
| Location in Museum | 1930s garage |
Interesting Fact
Panthers were often described as a 'firing once every lamp post'. This comment dates from the fact that there were long stroke, low revving, high torque engines with tall gearing. At the time there was only one speed limit - 30mph in built up areas – which featured regularly spaced lamp posts. This is why the speedometer has a white line at 30mph, the needle tended to jump around, and for a quick glance down it is easier to ensure the needle is below the white line, rather than having to focus on the 30 symbol.
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