Top Ten Defunct Motorcycle Manufactuers

[montmil]

An interesting little historical photo essay.

Who remembers, who owned and who has ridden any of these motorcycles? Only two on my list.

http://www.motorcycle.com/top10/top-ten-defunct-motorcycle-manufacturers.html

[k_enn]

I remember (in person or in histories) most of those brands, and have probably seen about 7 of them (mostly in museums).  I probably rode a Rupp at one point in my youth, but I didn't pay attention to the brand.  

[Bengt_Phorqs]

I have a Triumph TR25W that was built in the BSA factory.  Does that count?  Never owned a Bultaco but had a Montesa.  I still think my favorite bike smaller than 500cc was my Penton Jackpiner, 175cc.  Amazing bike.

[Luca]

I've put my butt down in the saddle of a Black Shadow.  It was getting a new clutch and had the left footpeg off.  If only it was rideable  

[nhmaf]

I've seen all of these bikes in the flesh, though I think I've only actually ridden on a Rupp and a Bultaco, briefly.

I gotta say, though Mr Britten had some good ideas, I cannot consider his brand in the same category as these others, who manufactured many thousands of bikes over much longer period - I consider him more of a "boutique bike designer", albeit a brilliant one.

I recall being a teenager in the 70s and lusting after a Laverda Jota, though.   Good thing I didn't have the ability to get one then,as I'd likely have killed myself on such a machine

[mrbuck]

MsBuck and I currently own 2 of the 250 Zane Laverdas shipped to the US...truly beautiful and joy to ride ....but a b.... to work  on.