Without Harley-Davidson, there would be no Simplex.
As the story goes, Joseph Paul Treen, a Harley dealer from New Orleans, had lobbied the Milwaukee motorcycle legend to make a more modestly powered motorcycle. Treen’s idea was to produce the Simplex Servi-Cycle—a lighter, simpler bike for younger riders.
When Harley-Davidson declined, Treen went for it, starting the company with a $25 initial investment. In 1935, he produced the first Simplex Servi-Cycle. A delightful 1955 Simplex, closely resembling the 1935 offering recently offered on eBay.
Treen’s son, David Conner Treen, would later become a Louisiana governor and US congressman.
Simplex for Simplicity
Between 1935 and 1960, the firm was the Deep South’s only motorcycle manufacturer, building just the Servi-Cycle. However, Simplex made a few variations of the Simplex Servi-Cycle and a scooter in its final three years.
The Simplex employed a 130cc two-stroke motor that managed a peak output of four horsepower. Initially, it had a direct drive with no gearbox. Over time, Simplex continuously improved its engineering with innovations such as a constantly-variable automatic transmission coming in 1950. However, the last machines to roll out of the Simplex factory were not that different from the company’s first motorcycles.
Stuart Tielens, a Southern California collector, is selling the ‘55 Servi-Cycle. He says:
I just love their simplicity. If you can pick up a screwdriver, then you can rebuild one.
Easy Rider
We would understand if the Simplex was not on the list of machines you’re eager to ride. It’s small and underpowered.
Tielens says:
The top speed is something like 25 miles per hour. I have several Simplexes, including a museum-quality example, but that one never leaves my office, and none of them go on the street.
When Tielens retired from the auto industry, he indulged his passion for all things with two wheels. He has sold hundreds of motorcycles on eBay, but the Simplex Servi-Cycle has a special place in his heart.
He says:
Oh, man. I like all kinds of stuff but especially Simplex. I even scoured Europe for parts.
Jumpstarting Conversations
Despite its lack of engagement on the road, the Simplex Servi-Cycle is easy on the eyes. Artful design features include curved handlebars, a sprung saddle, and a teardrop tank sitting inside its long winding frame. The example on eBay had pinstriping and mild customization, and it comes with a rare California title.
Beautiful motorcycles are usually made for riding, but Simplex survivors join the ranks of vintage board track racers that mainly serve as static exhibits of motorcycle history. This 1955 Simplex Servi-Cycle, if displayed in your home or business, would be a charming piece of motorcycle history to enjoy as a work of art.
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