Wesson History

Maurice Wesson built a single Wesson motorcycle as a prototype for a spring suspension design that Weeson hoped would revolutionise motorcycle design.

Wesson designed his leaf spring front and rear suspension in 1912. He then constructed the prototype motorcycle in his father's garage in Ricmond, Victoria, Australia.  The prototype used a JAP V-twin engine, Thor gearbox, chain drive, and locally produced hubs and tanks.

Wesson's plans were put on hold due to World War I when Wesson went to Europe on active service before returning to Australia (presumably) at war's end.

After World War I, Wesson left for London with his father hoping to garner the interest of one of the large motorcycle manufacturers. Without success, they returned to Australia. Wesson continued on his prototype with the hope of mass-producing the motorcycle in Australia.

In 1924, Maurice Wesson floated a public company, the Wesson Spring Suspension Motor Cycle Co. Pty. Ltd. (registered 27 Feb 1924; Victoria Government Gazette, No. 81) and raised capital of £30,000, equivalent to half a million dollars in today's money. The local press devoted much attention to the patent skethches but the venture sank without another motorcycle being produce. The reality was that Wesson's suspension was too complicated.

Maurice Wesson rode the prototype for many years until he was killed in a car accident in the 1950s.

His motorcycle was eventually pilfered for parts and dumped in Cohuna, Victoria, where it sat until being discovered and salvaged in the 1970’s.

Project by Finch Restorations

The Wesson motorcycle restoration performed by Finch Restorations is provided at the link below.

Wesson Restoration Project by Finch Restorations

Wesson motorcycle restoration project performed by Finch Restorations is shown below.