Every now and again, a classic vehicle enters the Bridge Classic Cars workshop that most of us haven’t seen before. One such vehicle is our Solex Moped 3300 which came into our collection recently.
The Solex moped is a classic and iconic motorised bicycle that was originally produced by the French company Solex as a way to help mobilise the people of France after the Second World War.
Engine
Solex mopeds are known for their simple and efficient engines. The most common engine type is a small, air-cooled, two-stroke engine, usually mounted on the front wheel. These engines provided a relatively low top speed, making Solex mopeds suitable for short-distance urban commuting.
Friction Drive
One of the most distinctive features of the Solex moped is its friction drive mechanism. The engine’s roller contacts the bicycle wheel, transferring power to it through friction. This design eliminated the need for a chain or belt drive, making the Solex moped unique and easy to maintain.
Pedal Assistance
Solex mopeds typically had pedals, like ours, allowing the rider to assist the engine by pedalling, much like a traditional bicycle. This made them accessible to a wide range of riders and also meant that they could be operated without a driver’s license in many countries.
Popularity
Solex mopeds enjoyed immense popularity in France and many other parts of Europe in the 1950s and 1960s. They were affordable and offered a practical means of transportation for many people.
8 million Solex mopeds were sold between 1946 and 1988 when production ended in France.
Our Solex Moped
Our Solex Moped will be staying with us. However, we are planning on using it in a way that is as unique as its design. We are going to hang it on a wall as a decoration and a tribute to the simple yet practical nature of this classic vehicle.
