the third-largest American manufacturer
excelsior-Henderson was one of the largest American motorcycle manufacturers of the early 20th century. The brand resulted from the merger between the company of brothers William and Thomas Henderson and Excelsior, headed by Ignaz Schwinn. Production lasted some fifteen years, with prestigious 4-cylinder models (Henderson's specialty) and twin-cylinder models.
Following the depression caused by the Great Depression of 1929, Ignaz Schwinn decided to stop motorcycle production and devote himself to bicycle manufacturing.
To illustrate: an Excelsior-Henderson KJ motorcycle powered by a 1300 cm3 4-cylinder.
Image credit: D.R.
short revival in 1993
an attempt at revival by an American industrialist took place in the 90s. Dan Hanlon obtained the rights to the brand in 1993, and 2000 Super-X models were produced between 1998 and 2000. The brand subsequently fell into bankruptcy and oblivion.
For illustration: an Excelsior-Henderson Super-X motorcycle
Image credits: D.R.
2020 - A new future with India
at the end of 2020, the name is bought by the huge Indian manufacturer Bajaj. Nothing has yet been announced about Excelsior-Henderson's future.