1914 Douglas 348cc 23/4hp Model U Engine Number: 84564 The Original Horizontal Twin The Douglas Engineering Company was formed in Bristol by brothers William and Edward in 1882, first as a blacksmith's shop, but soon expanding to become an iron founders. After the turn of the century and the advent of the motor vehicle, the company soon became involved in the development of engines and was especially known for its horizontally opposed twin cylinder engine bikes and as manufacturers of furious speedway machines. There were no less than five incarnations of Douglas throughout its somewhat bumpy history but, despite this, Douglas enjoyed competitive success and helped establish the flat twin as a practical engine layout for motorcycles as it lowered the centre of gravity and provided a smooth delivery of power. The attractive external fly wheel was also a signature mark which, when lightly struck, produces a wonderfully clear and consistent note. The native timber hand grips and brake pads were a common solution as the demands of the Great War placed pressure on the supply of quality rubber. For the same reason, the main belt drive is constructed from layered canvas. Douglas remained faithful to the horizontally opposed twin cylinder until the final model, the Dragonfly, which was announced in 1954 with production finally ending in 1957. Well campaigned by the vendor, this excellent 1914 Douglas is in good running order.