A late-1930s Scott Flying Squirrel motorcycle once owned by Steve McQueen is on the market, showcasing remarkable engineering history and celebrity provenance.
Among the most storied motorcycles ever built, the late-1930s Scott Flying Squirrel has taken center stage, now available for purchase complete with its matching sidecar. Notably, this particular model was cherished by Hollywood legend Steve McQueen during his lifetime.
Recognized for its groundbreaking design, the Scott Flying Squirrel features a liquid-cooled, parallel-twin two-stroke engine—an innovation significantly ahead of its time. This engine plays a dual role, serving as a stressed member of the bike's duplex cradle frame. Additionally, the crankcase is equipped with inspection doors that allow owners to check pistons, rings, and main bearings without dismantling the engine, a feature that underscores the model’s advanced engineering.
Key Facts About Steve McQueen’s Flying Squirrel
- This Scott Flying Squirrel sidecar outfit was manufactured in late 1937 or early 1938 and underwent refurbishment while in McQueen's ownership, remaining with him until he passed away in 1980. The bike subsequently sold at an estate auction in Las Vegas in November 1984 and is now located in Newbury Park, California.
- Alfred Angas Scott designed the first Scott motorcycle fitted with a two-stroke twin engine in 1901, successfully building his first complete motorcycle by 1908. Over the years, Scott motorcycles proved competitive enough that the Auto-Cycle Union had to impose handicap limits during races.
- Unveiled at the Olympia show in 1925, the Flying Squirrel underwent extensive redesigns by 1927. The model became the only one Scott produced throughout the 1930s and remained in production until 1950, celebrated for its unique exhaust sound known as the “yowl.”
- (Specifications include) a 498cc long-stroke Power Plus twin engine, thermosiphon cooling, Amal carburetor, Pilgrim oil pump, Lucas magneto, and a 3-speed transmission complemented by a singular leaf-sprung sidecar.
A Brief History of Scott Motorcycles
Alfred Angas Scott’s journey began in 1901 when he creatively fitted a motorcycle engine to a Premier bicycle, generating electrical power that drove the front wheel. Hailing from Bradford, Scott was an accomplished engineer whose initial endeavors included designing marine engines. By 1908, he constructed his first complete motorcycle, which featured a 333cc engine designed to exceed the standard speed limitations of the time.
Scott's early motorbikes became well-known, even compelling the Auto-Cycle Union to put measures in place to level competition, thus indicating the speed capability of Scott motorcycles was ahead of its peers. By 1912, Frank Applebee made history by winning the Senior TT, marking Scott as the first two-stroke manufacturer to achieve this prestigious victory.
Tragically, Alfred Scott’s life was cut short in 1923, but his legacy continued through models like the Flying Squirrel. The evolution included several iterations from the 486cc Squirrel of 1922 to the renowned Flying Squirrel, which became synonymous with the Scott brand.
Remarkable Features of the Flying Squirrel
First introduced in 1925, the Flying Squirrel distinguished itself not just with its aesthetics but also with performance capabilities that closely mirrored those of competitive racing bikes. The bike came with two engine options—498cc priced at £86 and a 596cc for an additional £3—designed to compete fervently in both public roads and racing tracks. Both configurations featured robust exhaust systems and superior cooling technologies that firmly exceeded the standards of that era.
An important redesign for the Flying Squirrel occurred in 1926, adapting features from the successful TT racing motorcycles of the time. Notable changes included a triangulated duplex frame, extensive oiling mechanisms, and close-ratio gearing, which solidified its role not merely as a road bike but also as a formidable competitor on the racecourse.
The signature sound of the Flying Squirrel, often described by many enthusiasts as a “hard, high two-stroke noise,” became a hallmark for owners and contributed to its popularity on the market.
The Impact of the Great Depression
Although sales peaked in 1928, the onset of the Great Depression in 1929 severely affected the Scott Motorcycle Company. To survive, the company had to reduce prices significantly, causing a decline in quality and overall capability, eventually leading to liquidation in early 1931. However, the brand managed to rebound, producing primarily the Flying Squirrel model through the 1930s.
The situation didn’t improve for long. As World War II approached, the focus shifted yet again. Motorcycle production didn't resume until 1946, and by then, while the motoring landscape had dramatically changed, many loyal fans of the Scott motorcycles remained, including notable personalities like McQueen.
The McQueen Connection: A Unique Acquisition
This particular Scott Flying Squirrel outfit was refurbished while under Steve McQueen's ownership, which speaks volumes about its lasting appeal. The motorcycle is finished in a classic black and red scheme, highlighting its vintage characteristics. The attached sidecar includes functional features such as storage compartments and a leaf-spring chassis. Both the motorcycle and sidecar have been well-preserved, making it not only a collector's item but also a piece of Hollywood history.
The bike showcases essential characteristics such as a flat-sided fuel tank nested in the distinctive triangulated frame, and mechanical features that align with what enthusiasts expect from a vintage motorcycle. In terms of performance, the bike is powered by a 498cc “Power Plus” two-stroke parallel-twin engine, which is characteristic of Scott’s sports models, and features impressive mechanical engineering from the time period.
Documentation and Authenticity
A significant aspect of this auction is the provided authentic documentation, which includes a certification signed by McQueen’s children, thereby ensuring an extra layer of legitimacy for potential buyers. Additionally, owners will receive a 1990 UK Customs and Excise import form alongside correspondence from the Society of Automotive Historians, guaranteeing the motorcycle's historical significance.
This exquisite Scott Flying Squirrel, once a prized possession of Steve McQueen, has now become available for purchase in Newbury Park, California. For those interested, you can read further details and register for bidding via the official listing.
Conclusion
Indubitably, the Scott Flying Squirrel embodies an impressive combination of engineering brilliance and historic relevance, highlighted by its association with a Hollywood icon. Whether you're a motorcycle enthusiast or a collector of film memorabilia, this one-of-a-kind motorcycle represents more than just a means of transport—it represents a piece of history with a storied legacy.
