RACV Motorclassica shows rare historical motorcycle for the first time

The 1914 'Victor' motorcycle and sidecar is a sensational preservation, the like of which enthusiasts are unlikely to see anywhere else in the world. The motorcycle was made by Edward Victor Bowen, who began assembling motorcycles in 1908 from the modest shed behind his cycle shop in Windsor Crescent, Surrey Hills, Victoria. Edward made just five motorcycles over the ensuing years. Each model was only sold once the next was ready. The 1914 Victor Motorcycle is the only one of Edward's five that is known to have survived. The sidecar was made by Underwood Bros & Co in Hawthorn, also in 1914.

Owner Chris Tiller acquired the motorcycle and sidecar eight years ago. Chris recalls that the previous owner came across the bike after it had been literally hidden away from the world for many years in a backyard in Templestowe. The motorcycle was uncovered in a lean-to woodshed on the side of a chicken coop. The bike was so well concealed that a large bamboo plant had to be cut down in order to allow the door of the shed to be opened.

Chris explains that because he has not ridden the bike or entered it into any competitions, its appearance at the RACV Motorclassica will be its public debut. Chris has labored intensively to make sure that everything is in perfect working order both inside and out, whilst at the same time ensuring the bike is perfectly original and preserved to museum quality.

"It's amazing to think that this bike was made in Melbourne in 1914. Many Australians seem to think almost nothing happened here pre-Gallipoli. What this bike demonstrates is that we actually have an amazing history of creativity, inventiveness and self-sufficiency dating back much further. When they see the bike and sidecar I hope the people of Australia take the chance to pause, reflect and take pride in their heritage," Chris said.

RACV Motorclassica brought together more than 100 of the world's rarest and most desirable classic, vintage and veteran vehicles. Following on from the success of last year's debut event, organisers received an overwhelming number of applications to be part of this years' Australian International Concours d'Elegance, with more than 200 received from around Australia. With a 40 per cent increase in applications from last year's event, RACV Motorclassica 2011 had a very different look and feel to last year, with many more vintage and pre-war era exhibits on show.