1913 Flying Merkel Model 71
Country: Middletown, Ohio
Engine: Air-cooled V-Twin 4-stroke
Ignition: Bosch Magneto
Power Rating: 7hp
Bore x Stroke: 3-1/4-inch borec x 3-43/64-inch stroke
Displacement: 60.89cu.in.
Valves: Overhead inlet, side exhaust
Fuel System: Single Merkel-Schebler carburetor
Transmission: Single-speed, Eclipse clutch on crankshaft
Suspension: Front truss spring fork, rear catilever sprung frame
Brakes: Rear “flat band” drum
Top Speed: 60mph
Price: $260
Flying Merkel has to be one of the greatest names for a motorcycle. These machines had many innovative features, such as the rear suspension design and the use of ball bearings in the power unit. Merkel also advertised that they were the first to use a full loop frame. This machine still has the majority of its original paint, and is possibly the finest unrestored Flying Merkel motorcycle in existence.
