ORIGINS
THE WHEELS BEGAN TO TURN IN 1885
We define Classic British Pursuits. Our e-bicycles are inspired by the freedom that the Britain of yesterday enjoyed. The unparalleled luxury of open space, open landscapes and time to appreciate them. Our products capture that effortless style and enjoyment, designed with modern retrospection.
OUR ANCESTORS OF THE 1800s
A name once heard in the Victorian era, Ormonde, is being revived to tell a new story of travel. In 1885, the Ormonde Cycle Co. was formed as a manufacturer of bicycles, shortly after the birth of an English thoroughbred racehorse. Also christened Ormonde, he was soon to become one of greatest champions in thoroughbred racing history…
The Ormonde of today is a revival of the original cycle company, inspired by the historic power of the unforgettable racehorse.
THE MOTORCYCLE CO
Image Credits © Sheldon’s Emu
Ormonde Cycle Co. formed in 1885 as a manufacturer of bicycles, later becoming the Ormonde Motor Co of Well Street, London in 1900, when they began producing motorcycles.
Production continued up until 1904 when they merged with Kelecom, the engine manufacturer.
This venture unfortunately failed before the end of the year and they were taken over by Taylor & Gue, the frame builders, who went onto produce their own machine named the Veloce, which later became one of Britain’s leading motorcycles, known as the Velocette.
THE RACEHORSE
Image Credits © National Heritage Centre for Horseracing and Sporting Art
Ormonde was a bay colt, bred by the 1st Duke of Westminster, Hugh Grosvenor. He was born in 1883 and grew to be a well-built horse, standing 16 hands (163cm/64 in) with excellent bone and straight hocks. His short powerful hindquarters led him to be known as ‘a racing machine’ to some.
He entered his first race in 1885 and emerged victorious. A victory he repeated time and time again; throughout his entire racing career, Ormonde never tasted defeat. He became the fourth winner of the English Triple Crown in 1886, and his final race in 1887 won him the 6 furlong Imperial Gold Cup at Newmarket.
Ormonde then retired the most celebrated horse of the era.
"a racing machine"
"the horse of the century”
ORMONDE REVIVED
Almost 150 years on, we are breathing Ormonde’s unstoppable power into the life of today’s increasingly-fashionable mode of travel: the e-bike. Inspired by the power and beauty of the 19th century Thoroughbred champion, we have revived the original motorcycle brand to bring these very attributes to the world of e-cycling. Drawing on the timeless inspiration of the classic icons of Britain’s glorious past, the Ormonde Percheron embraces cutting edge technology combined with beautiful form to give the world’s finest e-bike.