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The original Einspur was constructed in 1885 simply as a mobile testing ground for the gasoline engine that the German inventor and engineer Gottleib Daimler was developing. His ultimate intention was to install it in a four wheeled carriage but, by putting it in what was effectively a two wheeled machine, he earned the nickname "Father of the Motorcycle" which is the center of controversy due to the dating of Sylvester Roper's steam cycle.
GOTTLIEB DAIMLER
GOTTLIEB DAIMLER (1834-1900)
AMAZON PICKS
 
Daimler Einspur  
The German word EINSPURIG means "single track", an inaccurate description of this early machine, since it was equipped with spring loaded outrigger wheels to keep it upright; these were necessary because the saddle was so high above the engine that the rider's feet could not reach the ground. The top of the engine projected up between the frame members, and above it was mounted a curved saddle more suited to the back of a horse. O n the first machine, the handlebars were attached to a tiller, but this was later replaced by the link arrangement shown here. Then engine had an automatic inlet valve fed from a surface carburetor and a mechanically operated exhaust valve. 
 
In many ways the engine was ahead of it's time. The drive from the engine was by means of a flat belt to a countershaft, on the end of which was a pinion engaging with an internally toothed gear attached to the rear wheel. This was controlled by cords passing around the handlebars, twisting of which simultaneously tightened the belt and released the rear brake. 
 
Einspur
Einspurig
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