Following the cessation of hostilities in 1918, the War Office gathered surplus equipment, including motorcycles, for disposal. As far as motorcycles were concerned, these ranged from heavily war-damaged, incomplete machines, to near-pristine, lightly used – or, occasionally, unused – models.
Post-First World War, Fenland Motor Engineers Crabtree & Son Ltd of Wisbech, Cambs, offered ranges of machines described as ‘Rebuilt Government Motor Cycles – overhauled in our own workshops. Stove enamelled, re-plated, tanks in maker’s colours, complete with tool bags, pump and guaranteed.’ All were priced at more than prewar new model values due to the high demand for transport in the immediate postwar period and the slow supply of new models which were even more highly priced.
Machines were also offered after overhaul but not refinished at about 20% lower prices and the ‘bargain basement’ comprised non running – or poorly running – damaged machines for DIY overhaul.
Although the War Office sold off much of its motorcycle fleet, moderate numbers were retained for use during the 1920s, including the ever-popular Model H. And Triumph – along with rivals including Douglas – offered replacement models, hoping to gain supply contracts.
Model P
494cc (84x89mm bore x stroke) side-valve motorcycle, three-speed gearbox.
Numbers bought by the War Office are unclear, with some sources stating as many as 200-plus were supplied over the period 1925-7; however, it’s more likely the number ranged from half a dozen to low 30s, and comprised both solos and outfits. It is believed most
