The Simplex Motorcycle Company was developed by J. Paul Treen, who was a Baton Rouge-based Harley-Davidson dealer. In the 1930s, he realised that there was a need for a light weight smaller motorcycle, and after creating several different prototypes. He was able to start production in 1935, of about 12 to 15 units each and every week.
By 1944, the Simplex Motorcycle Company was able to upgrade into one of the most up to date and top-of-the-line manufacturing facilities of the time. One of the hottest additions to the Simplex Motorcycle Company's factory was the fact that in the factory music was to be played throughout the workday over a series of loudspeakers.
The design of the Simplex Motorcycle changed very little over the 25 years of motorcycle production. Since day one, the Simplex Motorcycle Company's motorcycles featured a belt driven direct drive system. This motorcycle was so light that there is no need for any type of starting mechanism as all you have to do to start the motorcycle is to stand up and take a couple of steps forward to start the engine.
By 1941 there was a need to also add a clutch paddle and by 1953, the Simplex Motorcycle Company also began a line of automatic motorcycles. There have been several upgrades throughout the company’s existence which include the addition of a kick starter, as well as a magneto in order to power headlights.
The Simplex Motorcycle Company also produced a line of three wheelers that are used by various delivery services throughout the area of Baton Rouge. However, the popularity of these three wheel pickup trucks was so small that they ended up as ceasing all production in 1960.
After stopping the line of three wheelers, the Simplex Motorcycle Company began to produce scooters, as well as go-karts and lawnmowers. These scooters, go-kart and lawnmowers were not powered by their own engine but rather a proprietary motor that they purchased from another company.
Original Authors: Nicholas
Edit Update Authors: M.A.Harris
Updated On: 09/06/2008
