The 1916 Traub Motorcycle is an enigma in the world of classic motorcycles, shrouded in mystery and intrigue. Imagine the scenario: a plumber, while working on a routine repair in 1967, stumbles upon a hidden treasure behind a wall—an old, yet pristine, motorcycle. What he discovered was the only known example of the Traub motorcycle, a rare and innovative machine that remains shrouded in mystery to this day. While many details about the bike’s origins are unclear, this unique find continues to captivate enthusiasts, providing a glimpse into the innovative spirit of the early 20th century.

The Discovery of the Traub Motorcycle

The story of the Traub motorcycle begins in 1967 when a Chicago plumber made an unexpected discovery while repairing a leak. Behind a wall, he uncovered a seemingly untouched motorcycle that appeared to be from the early 1900s. As he inspected it, he quickly realized that this wasn’t just any vintage bike—it was something far rarer. Upon further research, it was confirmed that the motorcycle was a one-off model, marked by its advanced features that far surpassed many motorcycles of the same era.

The bike’s features were remarkable: a V-twin engine with a displacement of 1,278cc, an advanced twin-brake system, and a single-cam design that were innovative for its time. With a top speed of 85 mph, the Traub was a machine that combined speed and sophistication. However, little was known about its history or its creator, Gottlieb Richard Traub, adding an extra layer of mystery to the bike.

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Watch the video to learn about the one-of-a-kind 1916 Traub motorcycle, featured at the Wheels Through Time Museum – the rarest motorcycle on Earth!

The Origins of the Traub Motorcycle

To understand the Traub motorcycle, we must first take a look at its likely creator, Gottlieb Richard Traub. Traub, a mechanic and motorcycle enthusiast, ran a small workshop near where the bike was discovered. Although the motorcycle’s precise origin story remains a mystery, it is believed that Traub was experimenting with new designs for a unique motorcycle, possibly inspired by his earlier projects.

Traub had a history of innovation. In 1907, he wrote a letter to the editor of Motorcycle Illustrated, describing a motorcycle he had built himself. In his letter, Traub mentioned details about the bike’s specifications, which closely match the features found in the 1916 Traub motorcycle. These similarities suggest that the motorcycle found in 1967 could have been one of Traub’s early prototypes, but the true details of its creation remain a puzzle.

While the letters and writings hint at his craftsmanship, there is no concrete evidence or records about the motorcycle beyond Traub’s own words. Moreover, there is a curious tale that the bike may have been stolen from Traub’s workshop, but with no police report or theft claim filed, this theory remains unverified.

Unveiling the Bike’s Uncommon Features

The Traub motorcycle was ahead of its time in many ways. It featured a twin-brake system that was uncommon in motorcycles of the period. It also used a single-cam engine design, which was rare for early 20th-century motorcycles, ensuring smoother operation and greater performance.

What set the Traub apart from other motorcycles of the era was its engineering and attention to detail. The 1,278cc V-twin engine was impressive for its size and performance, delivering an output that was highly competitive during its time. The bike’s design showcased not only functionality but also a clear aesthetic vision—its sleek body and refined details reflected an era when craftsmanship and innovation were highly valued.

Despite its innovations, the Traub was not built for speed in the same way that modern bikes are. While it could reach a top speed of 85 mph, its focus was on delivering a smoother, more refined riding experience. It was more than just a motorcycle; it was a symbol of what could be achieved when skilled hands and a visionary mind came together.

The Journey of the Traub After Its Discovery

After its discovery, the Traub motorcycle passed through several owners. It was initially acquired by Torello Tacchi, a local mechanic, stuntman, and racer who recognized the bike’s value. Tacchi’s interest in the bike was more than just a collector’s pursuit—it was a recognition of the motorcycle’s unique place in history.

In the following years, the Traub was sold to a series of enthusiasts, including the legendary Bud Ekins, who was also the stunt double for Steve McQueen. Ekins, known for his racing passion, became the bike’s custodian for a time, adding yet another layer of legacy to the motorcycle’s fascinating story. Eventually, the bike found its way to the Wheels Through Time Motorcycle Museum in Maggie Valley, North Carolina, where it still resides today.

At the museum, Dale Walksler, the museum’s founder, has kept the Traub in working condition and occasionally takes it out for a ride, preserving its legacy for future generations to admire. The bike remains a rare piece of American history, and while much of its story is still unknown, it continues to captivate motorcycle enthusiasts and collectors alike.

The Traub’s Enduring Legacy

The mystery surrounding the 1916 Traub motorcycle only adds to its allure. With its unique design and engineering, the bike stands as a testament to what could have been a revolutionary breakthrough in motorcycle technology. Had it been more widely recognized or produced in greater numbers, it could have altered the course of motorcycle history.

While the bike’s exact story may never be fully revealed, its existence offers a glimpse into a forgotten chapter of early American motorcycling. The Traub motorcycle serves as a reminder of the innovation and craftsmanship that characterized the early years of motorcycling, a time when every new model had the potential to change the industry.

In the years since its rediscovery, the Traub has sparked conversations about lost technologies and the untold stories hidden behind the walls of time. Its continued presence in museums and at motorcycle shows ensures that its legacy will live on, inspiring both future innovators and collectors.

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Check out the video to watch Matt Walksler start the legendary 1916 Traub Motorcycle!

Conclusion: The Motorcycle That Could Have Been

The 1916 Traub motorcycle may never have received the recognition it deserved during its time, but it remains a fascinating example of early 20th-century innovation. As a one-off creation, it stands apart from other motorcycles of the era, both in design and in the mystery surrounding its origins. While its full story may remain a puzzle, the Traub motorcycle has earned its place in history, and its legacy continues to inspire those who appreciate the craftsmanship and spirit of innovation that shaped the golden age of motorcycles.