The Mystery of the 1916 Traub Motorcycle

Walksler, who has been collecting and working on rare and classic American motorcycles for nearly four decades, claims he’s never encountered anything like the Traub. After its discovery in 1968, the Traub was purchased in 1972 by Bud Ekins, Steve McQueen’s stuntman. It then passed through the hands of collector Richard Morris before finding its permanent home with Walksler in the mid-1990s. Today, it’s one of the prized pieces in his collection of 240 classic motorcycles, and astonishingly, Walksler still rides it regularly.

Having worked on the bike himself, Walksler describes the Traub’s engine components as remarkable for their time. Handmade pistons with gap-less cast iron rings and cutting-edge machining far ahead of the era are some of the highlights. During his restoration, the only parts he had to replace were the base gaskets, as the rest of the engine was so precisely crafted it didn’t require them.

The Traub transmission is also noteworthy, featuring two separate neutral positions, which were highly unusual. While many parts are custom-made, the presence of off-the-shelf components like the Schebler carburetor, Bosch magneto, and Troxel Jumbo seat helped Walksler date the bike to around 1916.

What makes the Traub truly unique, though, are its one-of-a-kind features. For example, the dual-acting brake system, controlled by a single cam, is unlike any other American motorcycle. The bike also has two clutch levers—a foot-operated one and a hand lever near the fuel tank. The three-speed gearbox even includes two neutral positions, further setting it apart from other motorcycles of its time.

Powering the Traub is a 78ci (1,278cc) V-twin engine, significantly larger than most engines of the era, which typically topped out at 61ci (1,000cc). The engine’s innovative design, including a side-valve arrangement and adjustable crankcase breather, showcases the advanced thinking of its mysterious creator.

As one of the highlights of the Wheels Through Time Museum, the Traub captivates thousands of visitors each year. Some even have the rare opportunity to witness it running, proving that this rare gem isn’t just a museum piece—it’s a fully functional marvel, far ahead of its time.

Shrouded in mystery, the 1916 Traub motorcycle continues to fascinate with its advanced engineering, attention to detail, and timeless innovation. Its origins may remain unknown, but its legacy as one of the rarest and most extraordinary motorcycles in American history is undeniable.