This photo comes from Thomas in Sweden, a friend of the site. He's showing off his very rare Svalan scooter. The Swedes make all kinds of good stuff from solid Volvos, quirky Saabs, wonderful wood furniture, and neat objects with great design. The Husqvarna motorcycle is known worldwide, and up until the 80's (I think), they were made in Sweden. It is not surprising that someone up there decided at one point to try their hand at making a scooter. From the bits of information on the internet, Svalan was a Swedish motorcycle manufacturer that used imported motors with home-built frames and other components. Though they appear to have used imported motors for their motorcycles, they used Swedish motors for their scooter and moped.
You can see a nice scan of the inside of the 1955 brochure above, including the Svalan scooter, if you click here. Would this goofy picture on the cover of the brochure entice you to buy one of their motorcycles?
Thomas' Svalan is from 1954. Only about 100 were built in 1954-1955. It is powered with a 128 cc JB-engine (also Swedish) delievering 4.5 hp.
Thomas explained that "It's pretty crude and ill-conceived in every aspect." He also commented that the large 14-inch wheels help, since it hasn't got any rear suspension! In any case, as you can see by the photo at the top of the post, it is tremendous fun to ride. Any doubt about that is erased by the big grin on Thomas' face!
