This incredible 1908 Peugeot 3½ HP has a local history.

Today Peugeot is known for its cars, so it may come as a surprise to know that Peugeot was the first company to mass produce motorcycles, beginning production in 1898, during a pioneering age for the motor industry.

Many of their early motorcycles were powered by De Dion-Bouton powerplants and achieved a great deal of success in competitive motorcycle events. The very first Isle of Man TT twin-cylinder class was won in 1907 by a Peugeot-powered Norton ridden by Rem Fowler (above).

The vehicle on display was the fifth registered motorcycle in Tasmania, remaining in the care of Tasmanian owners since it was first registered by Leonard C Pitfield, in the Hobart suburb of Glebe, all those years ago.

It has received an extensive restoration to original condition and today remains in full working order, still with the original ‘17’ numberplate it first wore in 1908.

See the museum website