Motorcycles
The BPMA has seven motorcycles in its collection. The earliest of these dates from 1965. Motorcycles were first purchased by the Post Office in 1914. This first fleet mainly consisted of New Hudson, Douglas Brothers and Rover Co. Machines.
At first they were only used in rural areas and were capable of carrying more mail than a man on a bicycle could manage. The first motorcycles had sidecars which meant that they could be used on collection as well as delivery duties. The first experimental use of solo motorcycles was in 1924.
Examples from our Collection
Here are some examples of motorcycles from our collection:
BSA Bantam 125cc motorcycle, 21 September 1965
Probably the most well-known motorcycle that the Post Office used.
BSA Bantam 175cc motorcycle, 1970
A later model of the popular BSA Bantam. Postal workers have fond memories of these motorcycles.
Crash helmet, pre-1986
This helmet does not come with visor but stud fittings at the top allow a visor to be fitted.
You may also be interested in...
In the Community
Post Office Counter Services, mail delivery, letter boxes and changing times
From its beginnings in 17th century London, the Post Office has always played an important role in the community.
Mail by Road
An original look at postal road transport by BPMA Assistant Curator Julian Stray
An overview of the major developments in mail transport by road since the postal system began in 1635.
Motorcycles
A brief history of motorcycles in the Post Office
The Post Office has delivered by motorcycle for around 100 years, using a variety of models, most famously BSA Bantams.
