In the early 1930’s Baton Rouge, LA Harley Davidson dealer Paul Treen pitched HD with the idea of making an inexpensive motorcycle that would provide cheap transportation and a steady stream of aspiring Harley Davidson riders. The Motor Corp. turned him down and he decided to make them himself. In 1935 the first Servi-Cycle appeared and continued in operation until 1960. The Servi-Cycle remained as the same model the entire run, with improvements being added as they were developed rather than as ‘new model’ introductions. Servi-Cycles were marketed through Western Auto stores as the ‘Wizard’ throughout the 1950’s.
By 1948 the Simplex Servi-Cycle used a 130 CC (7.9 CID) air cooled two stroke motor that made 4 HP. A rotary valve and only one crank bearing kept the weight down to 135 LBS. 2 spark plugs and a unique magneto that not only provided spark but also lighting power completed the package. The bike was direct drive with a belt driven directly off the crankshaft through a centrifugal clutch and another belt to the rear wheel. The Simplex was a ‘push to start’ bike until 1953, but the ‘48 had a toe clutch that made this task much easier.
This Simplex Servi-Cycle (VIN: J5601) is located in Addison TX and is listed as a zero mileage bike. It is said to have come from an extensive collection that is now available, it has a Buy It Now price of $7,490