The First Motorbike, Powered by Steam (1867, 1885)
Long before the roar of gasoline engines, inventors experimented with steam. One of the earliest known examples is the Roper Steam Velocipede (1867), created by American inventor Sylvester Roper. It featured a coal-fired boiler and looked more like a Frankenstein bicycle than a motorcycle, but it could move under its own power.
Then came the Michaux-Perreaux steam velocipede in France (1868), another steam-powered two-wheeler. These machines were more curiosities than practical vehicles, but they planted the seed for what was to come.
The First Internal Combustion Motorcycle, Daimler Reitwagen (1885)
The first true motorcycle, as defined by an internal combustion engine on two wheels, is credited to Gottlieb Daimler and Wilhelm Maybach in 1885. Their invention, the Reitwagen (“riding car”), used a wooden frame and a single-cylinder gas engine. It also had outrigger wheels to help balance it, which purists today might call cheating. Still, this was the game-changer, the dawn of the gasoline-powered motorcycle.
Early Production Motorcycles, 1890s to Early 1900s
As the 20th century approached, more inventors and companies began producing motorized bicycles:
- Hildebrand & Wolfmüller (1894), often considered the first production motorcycle. It ditched pedals entirely and featured a water-cooled, twin-cylinder engine.
- Excelsior, Indian, and Harley-Davidson (1900s), these names would dominate the American scene. Indian (1901) and Harley-Davidson (1903) became iconic for combining power with rugged style.
These early bikes were basic, often with bicycle-style frames, belt drives, and minimal suspension. But they were getting faster, more reliable, and gradually evolving into distinct styles.
Early Motorcycle Styles
As motorcycles evolved, manufacturers began to experiment with form and function. The earliest styles emerged based on intended use, racing, utility, or leisure and set the stage for today’s categories.
1. The Motorized Bicycle (Late 1800s, Early 1900s)
Appearance, essentially a pedal-powered bicycle with a small engine bolted on. Use, affordable transport, often DIY or small-batch manufactured. Example, 1901 Indian Single.
These were popular with tinkerers and pioneers who were excited by the promise of personal motorized travel.
2. Board Track Racers (1910s, 1920s)
Appearance, stripped-down, aggressive bikes with no brakes or suspension. Use, racing on wooden velodromes (yes, wooden tracks). Example, Harley-Davidson Model 11K.
These bikes were built for speed and spectacle, with riders often reaching 100 mph in terrifying conditions.
3. Military Motorcycles (WWI and WWII)
Appearance, sturdy frames, larger engines, sidecars, and cargo racks. Use, reconnaissance, dispatch riding, and transporting light equipment. Example, Triumph Model H, Harley-Davidson WLA.
Wars played a huge role in advancing motorcycle technology, making them tougher, more powerful, and mass-producible.
4. Scooters (1920s, 1930s Prototype, 1940s Boom)
Appearance, step-through frame, small wheels, enclosed bodywork. Use, urban commuting, particularly in post-war Europe. Example, Vespa (1946), Lambretta.
While scooters aren’t always grouped with early motorcycles, they’re part of the same family tree, born out of the need for low-cost, practical mobility.
5. Cruisers and Roadsters (1930s Onward)
Appearance, low seat height, longer wheelbase, V-twin engines. Use, comfortable long-distance riding and daily use. Example, Harley-Davidson EL Knucklehead (1936). These bikes emphasised style and comfort, and became symbolic of freedom and American motorcycling culture.
Final thought: A legacy in motion
From humble steam-powered beginnings to roaring V-twins and stylish cruisers, the early evolution of motorcycles was defined by creativity, necessity, and passion. The first styles, motorized bicycles, board track racers, military bikes, and early roadsters, laid the groundwork for today’s diverse motorcycle world.
Whether you ride a sport bike, cruiser, dual-sport, or café racer, your machine owes something to these early pioneers who strapped engines onto wheels and asked, “What happens if we go faster?”
Coming soon
Up next, we’re diving into the bikes that redefined entire eras, machines that left tire marks on history. For more two-wheeled goodness, subscribe to our newsletter below; it’s free, it’s fun, and packed with the kind of bike chat your inbox secretly craves.
