Panther Motorcycles

A Legacy of Power and Reliability

Panther Motorcycles is a historic British motorcycle brand, best known for its torque-rich engines, innovative engineering, and long-distance reliability. Manufactured by Phelon & Moore (P&M) in Cleckheaton, West Yorkshire, Panther motorcycles were produced from 1904 to 1967. The brand gained a reputation for its unique sloping engine design, robust construction, and smooth, reliable performance—making Panther motorcycles a favorite among touring riders and sidecar enthusiasts.

The History of Panther Motorcycles

Panther’s roots trace back to the early 1900s, when Joah Phelon and Harry Rayner developed an innovative motorcycle frame that used the engine as a structural component. After Rayner’s passing, Phelon partnered with Richard Moore, forming Phelon & Moore (P&M). By 1904, the company was producing motorcycles under the P&M name, primarily supplying single-cylinder machines for the British military and police forces.

In 1924, Phelon & Moore introduced the Panther name, which became the defining brand for their motorcycles. Panthers were recognized for their torquey single-cylinder engines, which provided effortless low-end power, making them particularly well-suited for sidecar use and long-distance touring.

Panther’s Engineering Innovations

One of the most distinctive features of Panther motorcycles was the sloping engine layout, which became a hallmark of the brand. This forward-leaning engine design improved weight distribution and allowed for a low center of gravity, enhancing stability and ride comfort. Unlike many competitors, Panther focused on large-displacement, slow-revving engines, which delivered strong pulling power and reliability rather than outright speed.

The Panther Model 100, introduced in the 1930s, became the company’s most famous model. Equipped with a 598cc or later 650cc single-cylinder engine, it was widely used for sidecar touring, earning a reputation as a “pulling machine” due to its ability to handle heavy loads with ease. Even in later years, when multi-cylinder motorcycles gained popularity, Panther remained committed to its big single-cylinder designs, catering to riders who valued torque, durability, and simplicity.

The End of Panther Production

Despite its engineering strengths, Panther struggled to keep up with the rapidly evolving motorcycle industry in the 1960s. The rise of lighter, faster, and more affordable motorcycles from British and Japanese manufacturers put financial pressure on the brand. In 1967, after years of declining sales, Panther production came to an end, marking the conclusion of one of Britain’s most distinctive motorcycle brands.

Panther Motorcycles Today

Although no longer in production, Panther motorcycles remain highly collectible, with enthusiasts appreciating their unique engineering, characterful performance, and historical significance. Clubs and restoration communities continue to preserve these classic machines, ensuring that the Panther name lives on among vintage motorcycle enthusiasts.

VintageMotorcycles.nl: Passion for Classic Bikes

At VintageMotorcycles.nl, we are passionate about preserving and celebrating classic and vintage motorcycles. Brands like Panther represent a unique era of British engineering, where craftsmanship and reliability were at the forefront. Whether you are a collector or simply an admirer of historical motorcycles, Panther remains an unforgettable name in motorcycling history.