Waratah motorcycles


Waratah motorcycles were manufactured in Sydney, Australia, from before 1911 to around 1948, although Waratah badged motorcycles were sold into the 1950s.
Initially Waratah motorcycles were manufactured by the Canada Cycle & Motor Agency, Ltd. on George Street, Sydney, who from at least 1910 built from standard parts, or rebadged BSA bicycles as, Waratah bicycles. W.A.Williams had been the manager of the Sydney branch of this business and in 1905 he bought it, retaining the name until 1913. In 1913 the bicycle and motorcycle part of the business was taken over by his sons, Perce and Reg, and the name was changed to Williams Bros., and later P&R Williams. This business, initially at 213–7 Elizabeth Street, Sydney, is widely known as the manufacturer of Waratah motorcycles from 1914 to 1948. Subsequent addresses of 255-259 Elizabeth St by the early 1920s, and 117 Goulburn St in the later 1920s are detailed in newspaper advertising, also detailing that the business changed its name to P.and R. Williams Pty Ltd, and later moved to 74-78 Wentworth Avenue Surry Hills.
Initially, they made small machines assembled from predominantly British components, including Villiers engines, Sun frames, Druid and Brampton forks. In fact, in 1921 they described themselves as sole importers of Villiers-Waratah Motor-Cycles. Fafnir and V.T.S. engines were also used.
In the later years, they badge engineered using, it is believed, Norman and Excelsior machines.
They were Australia's longest running motorcycle manufacturer. However little information seems to have survived, presumably because these were low-value utility machines.

Models

There is no detailed definitive history of the Waratah models, but from books, press articles, sales brochures and adverts, the following outline picture seems clear:
More details are known for certain years:
YearModels
1911Waratah machine equipped with 4.5 hp Fafnir engine. The machine is described as being "English" suggesting that it is either manufactured from imported English components or possibly badge-engineered. Earlier adverts clearly indicate that it was manufactured not imported by the statement "MANUFACTURERS and IMPORTERS of Excelsior, Douglas, and Waratah Motor Cycles" since the first two were imported. The company was also manufacturing Waratah bicycles at the time. Adverts for these Waratah motorcycles appear to have run for only a fairly short time in late 1911, perhaps reflecting a limited availability of the machines themselves.
An advertisement in 1916 selling a second-hand Waratah refers to it as "3.5 h.p. overhead valve, Bosch magneto". As this is clearly a 4-stroke engine and the later Villiers and V.T.S. machines were 2-strokes, this is most likely another early model, presumably with a Fafnir engine since they used on some engines overhead inlet and side exhaust valves.
1915A model with a Villiers two-stroke engine was offered.
It also seems that Waratah motorcycles were offered with V.T.S. engines. V.T.S. were manufactured by The Valveless Two Stroke Engine Company Ltd. of Birmingham, England, and sold exclusively to Sun Cycle & Fittings Co. Ltd.. This was a 269cc engine.
These machines, presumably with either make of engine, were available either with our without a two-speed gearbox.
1916Models with Villiers and V.T.S. two-stroke engines were offered. One model, at least, was supplied with a 2-speed counter-shaft gearbox.
1917Adverts in March describe apparently second-hand 2.5 hp Waratah machines. The former is described as having lamp, horn and tools. Williams Bros. also provide the following testimonial from their Tamworth Agent: "Mr. Pritchard, of Tamworth, who bought Waratah Motor Cycle off me some time ago says he has ridden his Waratah over 30,000 miles, and has never had a new ring or part flitted, except two new chains and tyres. He still has the original belt, and the machine is still in first-class running order."
1919Adverts refer to a new, and what is presumably a second-hand two-speed, 1919 Waratah.
1921Reports on a race meeting mention a 2.75 hp Waratah machine. Whilst it may not be from 1921, it is presumably not much older if it is in competition.
1922Reports on race meetings mention 2.25 hp Waratah machines less than 600 cc and 2.75 hp Waratah machines with less than 350 cc. Whilst they may not be from 1922, they are presumably not much older if they are in competition.
1924A 1.5 h.p., two-speed Waratah was offered. There are reports that mention 1.5 hp Waratah machines, which are probably the same model.
Auction sales also mention 2.5 hp Waratah machines, although they may also be of earlier manufacture. An advert in the Townsville Daily Bulletin describes a Waratah machine with a Villiers Two-Stroke engine and two speed gearbox that gives 110 mpg and that "easily climbs Stanton Hill on top gear". The advert shows a picture of a machine with enclosed primary chain and a belt drive to the rear wheel, an angular fuel tank slung under the top frame tube, no obvious electrics and no suspension other than seat springs.
1925Reports on a race meeting mention a 1.5 hp Waratah machine. Whilst it may not be from 1925, it is presumably not much older if it is in competition and that it is the current stock model is implied by subsequent advertising. The existence of this 1.5 hp Waratah model is confirmed by other advertisements. This model had a Villiers engine and was apparently capable of 30 mph. and 140 mpg.
1926At least two models were offered:
  • A 1.5 hp model was reported to deliver 140 mpg. It was also stated that "Rated at 1.5 hp the Waratah engine develops over 4 Brake Horse Power." It had a two speed gearbox, with an optional clutch and kick starter. This was presumably the 147 cc model that was exhibited at the Sydney Motor Show. A 147 cc, 1.5 hp Waratah also took part in the sixth annual six- days' trials of the Motor Cycle Club of New South Wales.
  • A 3.5 hp model may have been new this year. The standard bike had a pump and full tool kit. A gas lighting set and horn was optional.
1927A Waratah model equipped with three speed gear box, electric light and horn was offered. A 1.5 hp Waratah was offered as a "low priced machine which is proving very popular amongst motor cycling enthusiasts requiring a machine of exceptionally low upkeep."A 1927 advert refers to a, presumably second-hand and thus probably pre-1927, 2.75 h.p. Waratah.
1928Two models were offered:
  • 1.5 hp Villiers engined machine, possibly 197 cc or 147 cc. Probably single top tube Sun lightweight frame and lightweight Druid forks.
  • 2.5 hp Villiers engined machine, possibly 350 cc. Sun saddle tank frame and Brampton forks.
A classified advert from 1930 refers to a 2.75 h.p. Waratah.
1929At least two models were offered as described in several press articles typically detailing improvements over the previous year's models:
  • The "Utility" 1.5 hp 147 cc model which was "assembled in Sydney from British components" now had a heavier frame and a saddle tank finished with a red panel. A three speed gearbox with clutch and starter were fitted. Wheels were larger being 26 x 2.5 and both were fitted with 5in. diameter internal brakes. Villiers electric lighting was fitted as standard. There was "positive handlebar anchorage twist grip control", long nickel exhaust pipes and soft top saddle. The quoted fuel efficiency is 160 mpg, with other running costs being negligible.
  • The larger, 2.5 hp sports model was of the same construction but had a two-gallon petrol tank, separate oil tank and 25 x 3.25 well-base tyres. It had the 2.5 hp, 247 cc sports Villiers engine with twin ports and detachable aluminium cylinder head. Apparently it was an excellent hill climber and fast, and was capable of 55 mph. It was fitted with a three speed gearbox, clutch and kick starter, twin long nickel exhaust pipes and had 6V electrics, including a battery. It was fitted with a separate oil tank and had larger brakes than the 1.5 hp model. The existence of the 1929 2.5 hp model is also attested to by a later advert.
Other press coverage provided more detail, but without being explicit about which model, perhaps it applies to both: "The 1929 model Waratah is a machine which is obviously suited to the utility rider, as it possesses not only the characteristic qualities of two-stroke construction, but is exceptionally well equipped in all ways. The front fork spring action, for example, is particularly long and flexible; the saddle tank design gives a low and safe riding position, which is further improved by the soft top saddle. General completeness, such as a cushion drive shock absorber, as well as automatic lubrication, twist grip control, balloon tyres, front and rear thumb adjusting brakes, &c., all indicate that the manufacturers realise that the utility rider wants something more than economy and light weight. The performance of the engine, too, is much better than would be expected with a machine of this class, as it is capable of high maximum speed, although these qualities of speed do not in any way affect the smooth running and slow top-gear performance of the machine."
As in some previous years there is reference to a 350 which might be one of the above, but is probably a separate model.
There is also mention, in a classified advert, of a 1929–30 2.75 hp machine with electrics.
1930A 1.5 hp machine with a claimed 120 mpg was offered. This model with electrics and a suggested 140 mpg is also mentioned.
A 2.5 hp 2-port machine with electrics was offered.
1931A classified advert refers to a 1.75 hp Waratah.
1932A machine fitted with a 147 cc Villiers two stroke engine was available. The following description is from press coverage describing improvements over the previous year's model. "These machines are totally redesigned, having visible top rail, tapering away under the saddle, and giving exceptionally low riding position, and gaining very high ground clearance." The front forks had enclosed webbing, apparently to strengthen them. It was fitted with electric light, battery and dimmer. Petrol consumption was approximately 150 mpg.
Reports mention a 2.5 hp Waratah in the 350 cc limit class. Whilst it may not be from 1932, it is presumably not much older if it is in competition.
1933Apparently three models were offered in this year:
  • A 1.47 hp machine.
  • A 1.97 hp machine with a Villiers engine of semi-incline design. The transmission includes a three speed gearbox with all chain drive, clutch and kick-starter. A saddle tank was introduced in this year, finished in red and black, with the saddle let in at the end for rider comfort. Wellbase wheels were fitted with 25 x 3.00 tyres together with internal expanding brakes. Forks were of central spring type. A six volt Lucas electric lighting system comprised battery, generator, headlamp and tail light. Speeds between 55 and 60 mph and fuel consumption of 150 mpg were supposed to be attainable.
  • A 2.5 hp machine.
One of these models was described as a 250 cc machine.
1935Two models were offered. The following descriptions are from press coverage which asserts, clearly erroneously, that until this time only the smaller "utility" model had been available.
  • Model "150" 1.5 hp Villiers engine of long stroke. Capable of 30 mph. and 120 mpg. Apparently uprated over the earlier utility 1.5 hp models with Villiers carburettor, magneto and electric lighting system. A four-pole generator, replacing an earlier two pole version, ensured a more powerful beam of light from the headlamp at low engine speeds. It had single spring front forks and a rubber saddle. Transmission was via a three speed gearbox with clutch and kick-starter. The tank held 1.75 gallons and the machine was fitted with leg-shields as standard.
  • Model "250" 2.5 hp machine capable of 60 mph. with more robust frame and forks and more powerful headlamp. The sporting engine had double ports and an alloy head, stated to develop 10 hp from a 2.5 hp unit. Other specifications were similar to the smaller model, except for twin silencers.
Presumably the Model "150" was the 148 cc two-stroke Waratah that was offered.
1936A 148 cc two-stroke Waratah was offered. This is probably the 1.5 hp machine.
A 2.5 hp two stroke machine capable of 90 mpg. was offered. "Electrics" were either standard, or an option.
1937Two lightweight Villiers engined models were offered in Brisbane and described as "undoubtedly one of the most economical motor cycles in the world". In Sydney, at least, a third model, a 1.25 hp machine was offered, described as "unit construction".
  • 1.25 hp machine.
  • Model 150, capable of 50 mph.
  • Model 250, capable of 60 mph. This is presumably the 2.5 hp model.
A 125 c.c. machine was apparently available. Presumably this is one of these machines, most likely the 1.25 hp. Reference to a 1.5 hp Waratah makes this seem quite likely. There is a reference to a 2 h.p. two-stroke Waratah.
1938Models offered included:
  • 1.25 hp two-stroke machine,
  • 1.5 hp Villiers machine, capable of 100 mpg.
  • 2.5 hp machine.
A 150 cc machine was available. It had a foot change.
A 250 cc machine was available and a foot change was either standard or an option. A 2.25 hp machine is referred to in a classified advert, but this seems unlikely to be reliable.
1939Two models, both lightweight, with Villiers engines, intended for utility work and described as "Undoubtedly one of the most economical motor cycles in the world":
  • 150 model
  • 250 model
One of these models was also described as a 1.5 hp two-stroke Waratah.
Another was described as a 2.5 hp Waratah.
There are also references to a 1.25 hp machine capable of 150 mpg.
1940Apparently at least three models were offered:
  • 1.25 hp two-stroke machine. It was described as being of unit construction, fitted with a speedo and capable of 130–140 mpg.
  • 1.5 hp machine.
  • 2.5 hp two-stroke machine.
One of these, presumably the 2.5 hp, was known as the 250.
1941At least two models were offered:
  • A 1.5 hp two-stroke machine. It was capable of 100 mpg and a speedo and generator were fitted.
  • A 2.5 hp machine.
1942A 1.25 hp machine was offered.
1943A 1.25 hp two-stroke machine was offered.
1944A 2.5 hp two-stroke machine was offered.
1948A 125 cc machine was offered.A 1.5 hp machine was offered.
1949A 2 hp machine was offered.
~1949Two main models were offered, the "125" and the "197":
  • Model "125": Villiers 10D, 122 cc, 1.25 hp engine.
  • Model "197": Villiers 6E, 197 cc, 2 hp engine
They were both offered in "R" and "D" versions:
  • "D": Battery-less Villiers direct lighting system
  • "R": Constant power lighting system with rectifier, wet battery and electric horn.
There was also a Model "125" Two Speed, which was an ultra light utility machine, with an Excelsior Goblin MK. II engine.
1950At least two models were offered:
  • 125 cc two-stroke machine.
  • 200 cc two-stroke.
1951At least four models were offered, all had Villiers two-stroke engines, "teledraulic" forks and spring frame:
  • 125 cc 1.25 hp machine.
  • 197 cc "D" 2 hp machine.
  • 197 cc "R" 2 hp machine.
  • 125 cc 1.25 hp 2-speed machine.
    • Presumably the "D" and "R" designations were the same as in the ~1949 brochure. One of the 125 cc machines was also offered. One of the 197 cc variants was also offered as 200 cc.
    1952Waratah motorcycles still offered for sale

    Historical events

    Agents, Distributors, Etc,

    PlaceCompanyDates
    Brisbane, QLDClyno Cycle and Motor Agency1915, 1916
    Brisbane, QLDMorgan and Wacker1925, 1926, 1927, 1928, 1929
    Brisbane, QLDHarris Motor Cycle Agency1928
    Brisbane, QLDFrank Pearce1929
    Brisbane, QLDThe British Motor Cycle Company1929, 1932, 1933, 1934, 1935, 1937, 1938, 1939
    Canberra, ACTP. W. Parsons1937
    Canberra, ACTCanberra Motor Sales1951
    Canberra, ACTCanberra Motors1952
    Longreach, QLDCentral Retreading Works1938
    Rockhampton, QLDLawrence Motor Co.1925, 1926
    Sydney, NSWCanada Cycle and Motor Agency Ltd.1911
    Sydney, NSWEmpson and Co.1918, 1919
    Sydney, NSWWilliams Bros., Ltd.1915, 1916, 1917, 1918, 1919, 1920, 1921, 1922, 1923, 1924, 1925, 1926, 1929
    Sydney, NSWP. & R. Williams Pty. Ltd.1932, 1941, 1946, 1947, 1949, 1950, 1951
    Sydney, NSWWoodward's Motor Cycles1949, 1951
    Sydney, NSWArthur Trudgitt1950, 1951
    Sydney, NSWDavies Bros.1950
    Sydney, NSWRyde Motor Cycles1951
    Townsville, QLDRees & Tice Ltd.1924
    Townsville, QLDAustralian Automotive Agencies Ltd.1926, 1927