BAT combo

A magnificent motorcycle from one of the pioneer manufacturers. It's a BAT v-twin from approx 1920.

BATs had several distinctive features, amongst which is the leading link fork and round petrol tank held on with nickeled straps (a design also used by NUT and Martynside).

There seems to be confusion as to whether the correct name is 'Bat' or 'BAT'. The company was founded in 1901 by a gentleman by the name of  Samuel Batson. The first model was introduced in 1902 and following its success (in competition rather than sales) the slogan 'Best After Test' was adopted in 1903. Early adverts feature cricket bats and the flying rodents of same name. The petrol tank transfers gave the name as 'Bat' but in advertising the company name was capitalised.

BAT were never a volume manufacturer and eventually folded in 1926.

Magnificent JAP engined v-twin BAT combination
from c1920.