1929 Excelsior “Super X“
“Loaned” by Jerry Ottaway

In 1925, Excelsior introduced a new model- a sporting type of machine of 45 cu. in. or 750 ccs. They were the first of the big three to offer a 45 inch machine to the American market, and it was an instant success. The venerable 61 inch Excelsior was quietly dropped from production, as the new machine made a better stable mate for its big brother the Henderson Four. The engine of the new X had a bore and stroke of 3" x 3 7/32", and was of the inlet over exhaust variety. The engine and transmission were unit construction, and primary drive was via helical gears. The performance was sprightly, and Red Wolverton turned a mile at 95.7 mph, 5 miles at 92.68 mph, and 10 miles at 91.05 mph on the 1 1/8 mile board track near Baltimore, Maryland on a Super X.

For 1929, both the Henderson and Super X were marketed as "Streamliners", with more modern looking cast aluminum gas tanks. The Henderson Streamliner was popular with police forces throughout the USA, but the contemporary Super X's are very rare, probably due to the introduction of Indian's popular 101 Scout in 1928.

Impressions from the Saddle
Starting a Super X is typical of US bikes of the period. Turn the fuel tap on, choke on, and a couple of kicks with the kill button pressed. Open the choke, release the kill switch, and one kick, (usually) and it's off. Right hand twist-grip for throttle, left for ignition, rocking foot clutch on left, rear brake on the right, and front brake, (second year of it only), a lever on the left. On the road, the bike feels light and nimble, with lots of get-up and go, but stopping is a bit dodgy. The saddle position is nice and low as well.

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