An all original 1910 Reading Standard.
Located in the hills of eastern Pennsylvania, Reading Standard built some of the most interesting American motorcycles between 1903 and 1922. Its advertising slogan was "Tested in the Hills." Early Reading models had side valve engines designed by Charles F. Gustafson before he transferred to the Indian Motorcycle Co., and when the Readings appeared they were little more than Indian copies with a Thor motor. The company began building its own design of single-cylinder motorcycles in 1906. These were the first flathead motorcycle engines offered by an American motorcycle manufacturer.
Overview
- Production Year: 1910
- Manufacturer: Reading Standard Company
- Class: Motorcycle
Design and Specifications
- Engine:
- The 1910 Reading Standard typically featured a single-cylinder, air-cooled, four-stroke engine.
- Engine displacement was around 500cc (30.5 cubic inches).
- The engine produced approximately 4 to 5 horsepower, which was substantial for motorcycles of that era.
- Transmission:
- The motorcycle used a direct belt drive, a common transmission method at the time.
- It featured a pedal-assisted start, where the rider would pedal to start the engine.
- Frame and Chassis:
- The frame was made of sturdy tubular steel, designed to withstand the rigors of early motorcycle travel.
- The chassis design was relatively simple yet effective, with a rigid rear and a basic front fork suspension.
- Suspension:
- Front: Spring fork suspension, which provided some cushioning and improved ride comfort.
- Rear: The rear was typically rigid, as rear suspension systems were not yet common in motorcycles.
Performance
- Top Speed: The motorcycle could reach speeds of around 40 to 45 mph (64 to 72 km/h), quite impressive for its time.
- Handling: Known for its reliable handling and sturdy construction, it was suitable for both urban and rural riding conditions.
- Fuel Efficiency: The Reading Standard offered good fuel efficiency, an essential feature for riders during the early 1900s.
Design Features
- Bodywork:
- The design of the Reading Standard was utilitarian yet stylish, with a focus on functionality and durability.
- The fuel tank was mounted on the top tube of the frame, a standard design feature for motorcycles of this period.
- Wheels and Tires:
- The motorcycle featured spoked wheels with clincher tires, typical of early motorcycles.
- The wheels were designed to handle a variety of road conditions, from paved streets to unpaved rural paths.
- Brakes:
- Braking was provided by a basic coaster brake system, where the rider would backpedal to engage the rear brake.
Legacy
- Historical Significance:
- The Reading Standard Company was one of the first American motorcycle manufacturers to adopt the side-valve (flathead) engine design, which became a standard in the industry.
- The company's motto, "Tested in the Hills," reflected its focus on producing durable and reliable motorcycles capable of handling challenging terrains.
- Cultural Impact:
- Reading Standard motorcycles were popular among early motorcyclists for their reliability and performance.
- The brand contributed to the development of the American motorcycle industry, influencing future designs and manufacturing practices.
