Motorcycles have been available as transportation since the 20th century. As soon as the first mass production of motorcycles began in 1894, people started riding them actively and creating motorcycle clubs. At that time, the motorcycle was believed to be an important part of the driving culture and a symbol of freedom. For more information, please visit the website edmonton-future.
The first motorcycle in Edmonton
In 1908, the Edmonton Police Department purchased its first motorcycle for $200 from Brown Brothers Limited. The vehicle had a quirky design, featuring a large handlebar, a small fuel tank, and an overly narrow seat.
Despite the unconventional shape of the motorcycle, people started buying these vehicles and using them for trips. By 1911, 100 motorcycles had been registered in Edmonton.
In the same year, motorcycle clubs began to form actively. The most popular was MMC, which was the first to appear. Clubs were founded by people who already had motorcycles. When the local authorities learned about these formations, they obliged drivers to register with the local authority. Not all clubs were legal; almost half rode at their discretion and violated traffic rules.
Do-it-yourself motorcycle
In 1912, Joshua Hill was so enthusiastic about driving two-wheeled vehicles that he created the first Canadian motorcycle with his own hands. The local authorities supported the young inventor and provided him with funds to create several more pairs of such transport. Hill created 5 motorcycles.
Races
By 1914, the locals were taking part in quite serious races. All people who had motorcycles had the opportunity to compete with others and received prizes. A bright example of this is Sadie Grimm. She became the first woman to win a motorcycle race. The races were open exclusively to men. She somehow managed to take part and became the first female racer who made a ride from Winnipeg to Winnipeg Beach.
World War I
During the First World War, motorcycle production was increased to aid military efforts and establish good communication with troops on the front line. Messengers on horses were no longer used within the city, as they were replaced by reconnaissance riders on motorcycles, who carried messages and performed reconnaissance.
In Edmonton itself, two-wheeled transport was not manufactured; it was mostly imported from the United States.
British manufacturers were highly popular and maintained a leading position in the market, but this did not last long as many firms from other countries began producing high-quality motorcycles.
Motorcycles in the 1960s
In 1960, the role of motorcycles changed – they became part of an image and status. It was believed that a man who had a new model motorcycle was successful, and women preferred such men.
The popularity of motorcycles began to grow in Edmonton. Young people dreamed of buying such a means of transportation. It was then that Japanese models of motorcycles entered the Canadian market. They produced lightweight, easy-to-maintain, high-quality models. The motorcycles were in demand among city dwellers because they were stylish, reliable, and inexpensive.
Modern motorcycles
In Canada and other developing countries, there is a high demand for small and inexpensive motorcycles, and many companies are working to meet people’s desires. Many brands compete with each other in large markets.
In addition, motorcycle taxis are actively developing in Alberta, Edmonton. Scooters, mopeds, and motorcycles offer people a fast and cheap way to get to the right place at the right time. At the same time, the person does not lose their own time, as a motorcycle has small dimensions and can quickly bypass traffic jams.
