History of Motorbikes in Australia

When did motorbikes first emerge in Aus? How long has the love affair lasted? At DGA, we’re all about insuring your motorcycle, whether it’s the latest import from Japan, or a painstakingly repaired classic from the 50s.

Have a browse through our brief history of motorbikes in Australia and spot which facts you already knew, and which come as a pleasant surprise.

1867

The steam powered bicycle is developed in France, by Ernest Michaux, dubbed the Michaux-Perreaux steam velocipede.

1884

A petrol-powered cycle with three wheels, the Butler Petrol Cycle is designed in England.

1898

The first reported petrol powered bike hits the streets of Australia. Mademoiselle Serpolette made a country wide tour with her petrol-powered tricycle, accompanied by a representative from the Gladiator Cycle Company.

1899

An Australian creation, the “motor triplet cycle”, no doubt inspired by Mademoiselle Serpolette’s outing and subsequent factory visit in 1898 is debuted on South Australian streets, produced by the Lewis Cycle Works company.

1916

Morgan & Wacker is established in Brisbane and becomes the world’s first Harley Davidson dealership outside of the United States. The company is still going strong and remains the oldest motorbike dealership in the country.

1923

Motorbike speedway racing kicks off at the West Maitland Showgrounds, providing a thrilling spectacle for spectators.

1925

This from the Queensland Police archives: William Ryan, the Police Commissioner at the time, purchased the first set of motorbikes to be used by the force. A total of 3 Harley Davidsons were bought, that came along with sidecars so that police could ride in pairs. Check out more over at the Queensland Police motorcycle archives.

1928

It was in 1928 that the Auto Cycle Council of Australia (now Motorcycling Australia) was born. The council was started to help bring together motorcycle riders across the country in a professional manner, and look after their interests.

1950s

Tillbrook manufacturers Australian made motorcycles in South Australia.

1972

The law changes to introduce mandatory helmet wearing for motorbike riders. This is the same year that seat belt laws come into effect. Helmet wearing is now compulsory in all states across Australia. It is soon discovered that the safety of helmets is an issue, which resulted in several inquiries into the issue. Read more about road rules and helmet safety at the Motorcycle Council of NSW Inc.

1983

The first FIM Motorcycle Grand Prix is held in Victoria at the picturesque Philip Island. This event continues to be held there to this day, and attracts many spectators.

With a rich and illustrious history, motorcycles in Australia really were keeping up with the Joneses in other parts of the world. While we’re not known for manufacturing bikes ourselves, we’re able to import the beautiful bikes of Europe, and the tech bikes of Japan to be able to scratch our biking itch. We’ve also got some amazing vintage and restored bikes kicking around the place to ooh and ahh over.

For full coverage of your bike on the road, make sure to get in contact with us.