Welbike 1942

Military scooter produced by Excelsior Motor Company. Powered by a Villiers 98 cc single-cylinder two-stroke engine, the Welbike was designed to fit into a standard parachute airdrop container 51 inches (130 cm) long, 15 inches (38 cm) high, and 12 inches (30 cm) wide. Once deployed, they were easily assembled and ready for use as quickly as possible.

Welbike went into full production in 1942 for issue to airborne forces. By 1943 it was also being widely used by ground assault forces, including the Commandos and the Royal Marines Commando units, particularly for beach landings at Anzio and Normandy. The small size of the Welbike meant that it also proved very useful as a general airfield transport by the Royal Air Force.